Dispersed camping near San Bernardino, California offers primitive camping experiences in San Bernardino National Forest, with sites ranging from 5,000 to 11,500 feet elevation. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F at lower elevations while higher areas remain cooler, and winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing. Most roads leading to these primitive sites close seasonally from November through April due to snow conditions.
What to do
Mountain biking near Jenks Lake: East Flats provides access to popular biking trails including the Santa Ana River Trail. "Lots to do with San Gorgonio Mt right here, Jenks Lake, Santa Ana river (and River Trail for MTB)," notes one camper about the recreational opportunities in the area.
Rock climbing excursions: Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp serves as a base for rock climbing enthusiasts. "This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed. As long as you follow the guidelines for the area, you can set up your tent anywhere you see a spot," explains one visitor who found the accommodations perfect for climbing-focused trips.
Summit hiking on San Gorgonio: From Vivian Creek Camp, ambitious hikers can attempt Southern California's highest peak. "This is a good base camp for the summit," notes one hiker. The trail gains significant elevation, and many backpackers use the camp as an overnight stop to break their summit attempt into multiple days.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at dispersed sites near San Bernardino. At Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, "There are over a dozen sites along the main road. If you can pull in, it's a site. Some better than others and spaced out so you may not see your neighbors from your site," according to a recent visitor.
Cost-free camping options: Free camping ranks high among visitor preferences. "Multiple free camping spots from the Y up to Fish Creek all the way to Coon Creek Cabin," explains a camper about Coon Creek Yellow Post sites. Designated yellow posts mark official dispersed camping locations throughout the forest.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report animal sightings. At East Flats, one camper shared, "Saw multiple deer walking by our site." Another noted, "Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary by location: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. For Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites, one visitor warns, "Specs if 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)."
Permits and fire regulations: Campfire permits are required when fires are allowed. A camper at Coon Creek Yellow Post explains, "You will need a campfire permit to have a fire when permitted, you can get them online from San Berdoo Forest."
Challenging trail access: Some sites require significant hiking effort. A backpacker at High Creek Camp noted, "This has a creek right next to it so that part is wonderful!" but also mentioned it's "one of the most popular out of the 4 on this trail! You have to get your permit early in the summer season because of that!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible locations: Some dispersed sites work better for families than others. At Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, a family found, "It's secluded and has enough trees for a hammock. Our kids loved being able to explore, but they were covered in sand/dirt by the end of the trip."
Bring entertainment options: Without developed facilities, prepared families bring activities. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping offers space for outdoor games, with one visitor noting, "Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others."
Prepare for primitive conditions: Families need to be self-sufficient. With no water or bathrooms, bring extra supplies. A visitor to Mill Creek mentioned, "Overall great campground, there are definitely some permanent residents but there is more than enough spots to have some privacy."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations and road conditions: Bear Lake and other dispersed sites near Big Bear require careful navigation. At East Flats, an RVer shared, "The campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome. I am far enough away where I don't hear everyone talking."
Know your vehicle limitations: Many roads deteriorate quickly. A visitor to Mill Creek warned, "The road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV. But the biggest issue for RVs is an area of the road that is very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn."
Locate flat parking areas: At East Flats, one RVer advised, "Great spot right off of Jenks Lake Road East that allows dispersed camping. There are a lot of spaces and larger rigs will do just fine within the first 1/4 mile, roads are a bit rough with rock and drainage ditches but our 40' trailer had zero issues."
