Dispersed camping near Rowland Heights offers primitive outdoor experiences in the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 700 to over 5,000 feet with Mediterranean climate conditions that allow for year-round camping opportunities. Seasonal restrictions frequently change based on fire danger levels and forest service regulations.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Heaton Flats, campers can access the popular Bridge to Nowhere trail. "I wouldn't feel comfortable setting up a tent here, but it could be an okay rest area at the beginning/end of the hike to Bridge to Nowhere," notes camper Les R.
Stargazing opportunities: The Angeles Crest Highway pullouts provide urban-adjacent stargazing. "Dark, fairly quiet, good view! I loved car camping here! When I stayed, there were no other people who stayed the night," reports Jaydon C. at Angeles Crest Overlook to LA.
Off-road adventures: The Stockton Flats area offers challenging terrain for vehicle enthusiasts. "If you go to the end of 3N06 (main off-road path) there is a good hike that you can take for several hours," advises Nathaniel C. at Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites.
What campers like
Convenience to urban areas: Several dispersed camping locations provide quick access to Los Angeles. "Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van," reports Nicole D., who recommends weekday visits for quieter experiences.
No-cost overnight options: Most dispersed sites around Rowland Heights are free. "Deep in nature, beautiful area, no cost and you can almost always find a spot, even on a Saturday in summer," notes a camper about Stockton Flats.
Sunrise views: Morning vistas from elevated camping spots offer unique perspectives. "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise! I'd use it again if I needed it as it's hard to find free places to sleep with a great view like that when traveling through cities," shares Valerie about Rim of the World Byway.
What you should know
Parking area camping: Many dispersed options are technically parking areas, not developed sites. "It is not a real campground, just the parking area of a viewpoint. So the view was great... There are no toilets, campfire sites or shade but good cell service," explains Iris A.
Vehicle requirements: Several areas require specialized vehicles. "Specs of this campground are wrong, no toilets/water/etc. Great for campers that meet 2 criteria: 1) You have a Jeep, Truck or similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc)," advises a camper.
Late-night activity: Most roadside pullouts experience traffic throughout the night. "Cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight, so that wasn't great but not awful either," reports one camper about Hare School Park.
Road closures: Always check current forest service notices before heading out. "The trail was closed as of May 7, 2023. No idea when it will be open," reports Romi E. regarding access to Stockton Flats.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly locations: Some sites accommodate pets better than others. "If you have dogs I would recommend the trail pull off. My dogs really enjoyed the hike," suggests Nicole D., who found quieter spots away from the main lookouts.
Safety considerations: Choose locations based on time of day and surrounding activity. "It's basically car camping along the Angeles Crest highway, there's small pull out spots and some spots overlooking the forest but kids do tend to party up here," cautions Joseph R. at Angeles Crest Overlook.
Navigation challenges: Several campsites have confusing directions. "The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off. If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around," warns Joe R.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large RVs face significant limitations at most dispersed sites. "We decided not to go to the site because it looked like a one lane road and too tight for our 35 ft bumper pull. Disappointed because pictures from others looked great and it is a beautiful area," shares Joe R. about Stockton Flats.
Alternative parking spots: Some school parking lots allow overnight RV parking. "I've been here for a couple days and nobody's messed with us. I'm in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV. There's a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them," reports Rockstar C. about Hare School Park.
Four-wheel drive access: Some sites require specialized vehicles. "Arrived at 2:30 pm. Windy. I wanted a place where I could let Bella off leash, so I put it in 4 wheel drive to pull my TAB trailer. Found a good spot. I can see other bigger rigs that did not require 4x4," notes Gregg P.
