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Best Dispersed Camping near San Bernardino National Forest

126 Reviews

East Flats offers free dispersed camping near San Bernardino National Forest with multiple areas accessible via Jenks Lake Road East. The terrain accommodates various vehicle sizes, with larger RVs able to navigate the first quarter mile despite rough roads with rocks and drainage ditches. Several reviewers note the area's minimal slope and adequate spacing between sites, with one visitor mentioning "there are a lot of spaces and larger rigs will do just fine." The area provides good cell reception and internet connectivity.

Several backcountry camping options exist for hikers in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. High Creek Camp and Vivian Creek Camp require wilderness permits and feature natural water sources. San Gorgonio Summit Camp sits at 11,500 feet with primitive "rock hotel" sites that shield campers from high winds. According to one camper, "Each site is a little rock barrier between you and the wind that is blowing up to 40+ mph." Mill Creek offers additional dispersed options with multiple sites along forest roads, though some sections feature challenging terrain. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with several areas prohibiting campfires entirely.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near San Bernardino National Forest (38)

    1. East Flats

    11 Reviews
    San Bernardino National Forest, CA
    6 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. San Gorgonio Summit Camp

    5 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    7 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."

    3. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    7 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."

    4. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    7 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    13 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."

    5. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

    2 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    6 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."

    6. Vivian Creek Camp

    1 Review
    Forest Falls, CA
    4 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. Bear Lake

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

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

    8. Coon Creek Yellow Post

    1 Review
    Big Bear City, CA
    10 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
    11 miles
    Website

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

    10. Simon Camping

    Be the first to review!
    Forest Falls, CA
    6 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near San Bernardino National Forest

115 Photos of 38 San Bernardino National Forest Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near San Bernardino National Forest

126 Reviews of 38 San Bernardino National Forest 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.

  • cal K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 16, 2023

    Joshua Tree North BLM

    Great stop once I scouted a good fit.

    As another reviewer noted - this spot is huge so make sure you are staying on BLM land. There is a lot of trash in some areas and there was some dirt bikes but they didn’t bother me. Car camping I found the area I liked best was as follows: off 62 take Sunfair rd, right on cypress rd (dirt road which my GPS thought was Reagan Rd but is marked with a street sign Cypress) - go past ITH coyote ranch (no sign but may show up on map) Then right on cascade - an unmarked dirt rd. Then there is a large flat BLM area where rvs and vans were quite spread out, and a motorcycle with a tent was my neighbor (quite far away). No trash here when I was there. Zero facilities obviously so pack it out. Hot tip - water and restrooms 10 min away at the Indian Cove ranger station near Indian Cove Campground in JT park. I stayed here two nights car camping.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2024

    BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree

    Definition of Dispersed Camping

    Everything about this site is not only free, but literally free to park and camp anywhere. There are private properties around, so just double check, but for the most part its wife open land to camp. Also currently in a fire ban, but that should be getting lifted in October. So campfires would be a great idea out here as well.

  • 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.

  • Gillian C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2021

    Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    No frills free camping

    Free camping just outside Joshua Tree. No amenities or designated campsites. Large open area where you can camp wherever you'd like. Previous campers have built fire pits from the rocks laying around. Beautiful views, off road vehicle recommend.

  • Jonathan G.
    Oct. 25, 2020

    Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    BLM. What else can you ask for?

    It's free camping so be respectful and clean up after yourself. That said, there are no facilities so pack it in and pack it out. The road going in isn't too rough, and you'll likely find makeshift fire pits. Work with what is already there instead of making making a mess. Bring your own shade too.

  • Dipam A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2023

    Joshua Tree North BLM

    Large open area

    My favorite place to camp near Joshua Tree. Lots of space. Although one of the nights I stayed there it rained, the water filled the potholes in the dirt road so my ford fusion couldn’t really go through them so it took a while trying to figure out a way going around the holes. It’s great for AWD vehicles though. Other than that it’s directly in the sun, no shade but I like the spacious land it has to offer. Far away from other campers.

  • 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.

Guide to San Bernardino National Forest

Dispersed camping near San Bernardino National Forest offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can enjoy the serenity of the outdoors while taking advantage of the area's stunning landscapes.

Enjoy Wildlife Encounters while Free Camping Near San Bernardino National Forest

  • At East Flats, visitors have reported sightings of deer wandering through the area, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
  • The tranquil environment at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp allows for peaceful moments where you can observe the local fauna in their natural habitat.
  • Campers at Bear Lake have enjoyed the clean, off-grid experience, often spotting various birds and other wildlife while relaxing by the water.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near San Bernardino National Forest, California

  • When visiting Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, be prepared for some dust from passing vehicles, especially if you choose a site closer to the road.
  • If you're looking for a more secluded experience, consider heading to Vivian Creek Camp, where you can find flat spots among the trees, providing a good buffer from trail noise.
  • Always check for water availability; for instance, High Creek Camp has a creek nearby, making it a perfect stop for those needing hydration during their hike.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

  • This location is well-reviewed for its accessibility, requiring a 4x4 vehicle for some of the roads, which adds to the adventure for off-road enthusiasts.
  • Campers have noted that the scenery around Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp is stunning, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploration.
  • The area is known for its historical significance, as it was the site of gold discovery in the 1800s, making it an interesting spot for those who enjoy a bit of history with their camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in San Bernardino National Forest?

San Bernardino National Forest offers numerous dispersed camping options through its Yellow Post Sites system. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites provides secluded tent sites near Hemet with fire rings and picnic tables but no amenities. Coon Creek Yellow Post offers multiple spots from the Y up to Fish Creek and Coon Creek Cabin, with the first spots being big-rig friendly despite about a mile of dirt road access. Another option is Mill Creek Dispersed Camping area, which offers sites along forest roads. These dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving midweek or early in the day is recommended during peak seasons.

What is boondocking like in San Bernardino National Forest?

Boondocking in San Bernardino National Forest means true self-sufficiency with no hookups or facilities. Joshua Tree North BLM areas near the forest offer vast open spaces ideal for boondocking, though you'll need to verify you're on public land. AWD or 4WD vehicles are recommended as dirt roads can become challenging after rain. Joshua Tree Hilltop provides stunning views but requires high-clearance 4x4 vehicles and can experience strong winds. Cell reception varies by location—some areas have surprisingly good coverage while others are completely off-grid. Bring all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal equipment. Fire restrictions are common, so always check current regulations before planning to have a campfire.

Is free camping available in San Bernardino National Forest?

Yes, free camping is readily available throughout San Bernardino National Forest. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping offers complimentary sites that serve as excellent alternatives when established campgrounds are full. These areas require medium clearance vehicles with light off-road capabilities. Ord Mountain Dispersed provides another free option located across from Sawtooth Canyon Campground. When utilizing these free sites, remember you'll need to pack in and pack out all supplies as there are no facilities. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as bans are common during dry seasons. Free sites typically allow a maximum stay of 14 days within a 30-day period.

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