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Best Dispersed Camping near Running Springs, CA

50 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas surround the Running Springs area in the San Bernardino National Forest. East Flats offers numerous level sites accessible via Jenks Lake Road East, with spots suitable for vehicles ranging from sedans to 40-foot RVs. The dirt roads have some rough sections with rocks and drainage ditches but remain passable for most vehicles. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping provides multiple sites along a gravel road, though high clearance is recommended.

Most dispersed sites feature no amenities - no toilets, water, or trash service. Fire regulations vary by location and season, with some areas permitting campfires while others prohibit them entirely. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp features more established sites with picnic tables, while other areas like Bear Lake provide more primitive camping experiences. "The road up to the camp area is a bit rough. We were in a Sprinter and definitely nervous for parts," noted one camper about Holcomb Valley. Cell service is generally available throughout the region, with one camper reporting, "Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Running Springs, California (29)

    1. East Flats

    11 Reviews
    San Bernardino National Forest, CA
    15 miles
    Website

    "Camping at East Flats was great in mid-June. There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes."

    "As a matter of fact, we got engaged at nearby Jenks Lake and celebrated here after. No facilities, but if you have your supplies, it’s great. There are a couple loops and lots of spots. Enjoy."

    2. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others. "

    "First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend."

    3. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    7 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    14 miles
    Website

    "Once you leave the pavement the going gets slower along the trails. You definitely need a high clearance vehicle. There are campgrounds in the area and also yellow post campsites."

    "Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited."

    4. Bear Lake

    1 Review
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "Nice clean off grid best place so far Rick water slides"

    5. San Gorgonio Summit Camp

    5 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "**** Product Review

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test products."

    "There were steep inclines and narrow trails. but beautiful views. Avoid the area should there be rain due to dangerous flash floods."

    6. Vivian Creek Camp

    1 Review
    Forest Falls, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "This campground is located just around the corner from the permit required sign. There is a lovely creek that lead to a waterfall that some repel down. The campground is up the right of the trail."

    7. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

    2 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "There is one really good site mostly dirt, no rocks, defined well, but it is right off the trail. So I'm sure you can guess there is no privacy nor silence."

    8. Coon Creek Yellow Post

    1 Review
    Big Bear City, CA
    20 miles

    "Multiple free camping spots from the Y up to Fish Creek all the way to Coon Creek Cabin. 1st spots on the left are big rig friendly, you do have about a mile of dirt road before you get to them."

    9. Yellow Post #54

    1 Review
    Big Bear City, CA
    20 miles
    Website

    "You will earn this spot as the drive from Hwy 38 is long and rocky."

    10. Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2851

    "There were some cars parked near the entrance, but if you go a bit further down alongside the road you can find some nice spots."

    "Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly ;)"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Running Springs, CA

61 Photos of 29 Running Springs Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Running Springs, CA

50 Reviews of 29 Running Springs Campgrounds

  • E B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Yellow post number 2

    Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA. No amenities—no toilet, water, or trash—so pack in and out. Fire ring and picnic table on-site. Shaded by mature trees with a dirt/sand/rock surface. Site fits up to 8 people and 2 vehicles.

    Access road is rough and rocky but doable in dry conditions with a careful 2WD. Signage is limited—offline maps recommended. Site sits near a dry creek bed and has a short walk to a west-facing boulder with expansive views of the valley.

    Wildlife includes deer, lizards, snakes, woodpeckers, and lots of squirrels. Mosquitoes come out at dusk—repellent is a must. Fire bans usually in effect during summer. Great for quiet retreats, hiking, light climbing, and off-grid solitude.

    A rugged but rewarding forest stay for self-sufficient campers.

  • Dickie Simmons S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    Convenient free camping just outside of town

    Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others.  Smaller rigs, medium clearance and lite off-road capabilities recommended. Good cellular reception in my particular location.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Heaton flats

    Not always allowed

    Camping outside esablished campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders on https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles. Currently, camping is allowed for 7 days or less, see here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=78080 The people I saw camping here looked to have been set up somewhat permanently though. 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.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Ord Mountain Dispersed

    Actual location 34.684300, -116.960600

    I did the best I could with finding the exact location on the map using The Dyrt's current capabilities to add a new location.  This site is located at 34.684300,-116.960600, across the 247 road from Sawtooth Canyon Campground / New Jack City rock climbing area. Hopefully someone can go in at some point and fix the location to be more precise.

    We checked this place out but didn’t stay. We liked the beautiful wide open surroundings, the good cell reception, and the easy access from the main road, but it seemed like this is a place better suited for bigger groups, especially those who will be riding ATVs or dirt bikes around. So, if you’re looking for a big open space to hang out with a big group where you can be loud and not disturb anyone, this would be a good place for it. We also heard gun shots nearby so further down the road is probably a good shooting area. 

    Obviously no amenities so please pack in/ pack out. It was surprisingly not too trashed so that was nice. We made it down the dirt road fine in our 26 ft class c. Proceed at your own comfort level, but it seems like a road that would be ok for any rig (maybe not a class A?) if you go slow and watch for dips and bumps.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    Site of gold discovery in the 1800s.

    If you’re into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful. Once you leave the pavement the going gets slower along the trails. You definitely need a high clearance vehicle. There are campgrounds in the area and also yellow post campsites. There wasn’t many other vehicles around the times I’ve been out there. Nice scenery and peaceful.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2018

    Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    unlimited backcountry camping

    Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited. We like coming here if we want to be guaranteed a spot, no early arrivals or reservations needed. Dogs are allowed, and the trails in the area are dog-friendly.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    Quick stop, nice rocks

    We stayed here for two nights, and it was a pretty pleasant experience! There were some cars parked near the entrance, but if you go a bit further down alongside the road you can find some nice spots. Use Google Maps; Waze takes you the wrong way, cause it's just right off the freeway, not down a long, very bumpy dirt road.

  • Cyndy & Selena R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2023

    East Flats

    East Flats-very nice

    Camping at East Flats was great in mid-June. There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    Nice stopover for me

    Arrived at 2;30 pm. Windy. I wanted a place where I could let Bella off leach, so I put it in 4 wheel drive to pull my TAB trailer. Found a good spot. I can see other bigger rigs they did not require 4x4. Interesting view. If your headed north on I15 do not take thirst access road. Almost a 4x4 road.

Guide to Running Springs

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Running Springs, California, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of options, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Running Springs, California

  • Look for spots that allow pets, such as East Flats, where you can enjoy the company of your furry friends while soaking in the serene environment.
  • Be prepared for a bit of dust, especially at locations like Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, where vehicle traffic can stir up the ground. Bring a dust cover for your gear.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, particularly at popular areas like Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, which can fill up quickly during weekends.

Enjoy hiking and wildlife while free camping near Running Springs

  • Experience the thrill of hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest, with trails accessible from Vivian Creek Camp, where you can also catch stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife at Bear Lake, where visitors have reported sightings of deer and other animals roaming nearby.
  • For those interested in gold panning, Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp offers a historical backdrop, as it’s near areas where gold was discovered in the 1800s.

Dispersed campers should check out Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

  • This location features a variety of sites along the road, providing options for both privacy and accessibility, making it a great choice for different camping preferences.
  • If you're looking for a spot with good cell service, Mill Creek Dispersed Camping is known for its connectivity, allowing you to stay in touch while enjoying nature.
  • The area is also suitable for smaller rigs and offers a mix of secluded and more open sites, perfect for those who want to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a permit for dispersed camping in Running Springs?

Yes, you typically need an Adventure Pass for dispersed camping in the Running Springs area within San Bernardino National Forest. At sites like Yellow Post #54, an Adventure Pass is required to park your vehicle. Additionally, you should check current fire restrictions as campfire permits may be needed seasonally. Always verify current regulations at Heaton Flats and other Angeles National Forest areas, as camping outside established campgrounds is sometimes prohibited. Check the Forest Service website for recently published orders and restrictions before your trip.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Running Springs?

Running Springs offers several dispersed camping options in the San Bernardino National Forest. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp provides unlimited camping spots as long as you're off roads and trails, with no reservations needed. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping is another excellent option with numerous sites along the road, some more secluded than others. The area is best for smaller rigs with medium clearance and light off-road capabilities. Most dispersed camping in the Running Springs area is free and first-come, first-served, so arrive early, especially on weekends.

What are the best seasons for dispersed camping in Running Springs?

Late spring through early fall offers the best conditions for dispersed camping around Running Springs. East Flats is particularly pleasant in mid-June, though you should be aware of potential rattlesnake encounters during warmer months. Coon Creek Yellow Post sites are popular during summer weekends and fill quickly. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to snow and cold temperatures at higher elevations. Fall provides beautiful colors and fewer crowds, while spring offers wildflowers but can be unpredictable with rain. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out.

Are there amenities available at Running Springs dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas around Running Springs typically offer minimal to no amenities. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites provide basic facilities like fire rings and picnic tables, but no toilets, water sources, or trash collection—you must pack in and pack out all supplies and waste. Rim of the World Byway dispersed sites are similarly primitive. Cell reception varies by location; some areas have good coverage while others are completely off-grid. Prepare to be self-sufficient with all necessary supplies including water, food, toilet paper, and waste disposal bags.

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