Best Dispersed Camping near San Bernardino National Forest
San Bernardino National Forest has many good spots for dispersed camping with no facilities or amenities. You'll find remote sites throughout the San Gorgonio Wilderness if you want to get away from crowds. Vivian Creek Camp works well for backcountry camping, but you need to bring everything you'll need. Make sure to follow Leave No Trace practices while camping here. Forest rules require camping at least 200 feet from water and roads. You can stay up to 14 days in one spot before needing to move. Most dispersed areas require driving on rough forest roads, so trucks or SUVs with good clearance do best. The forest often has fire bans during dry periods, typically summer through fall. Bears and other wildlife live throughout the forest, so hang food or use bear canisters at night. Spring and fall have the best weather for camping, as winters bring snow at higher elevations and summers can get very hot. The nearest supplies are about 30 minutes away in towns like Big Bear or Redlands. Before heading out, check with ranger stations about current conditions and make sure you understand all the rules for camping on public land.