Best Dispersed Camping near San Diego, CA
Dispersed camping near San Diego means heading to places like Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where you can find spots away from developed campgrounds. The park's wide-open spaces let campers spread out across the desert landscape. Mountain Palm Springs Camp sits within Anza-Borrego and works well for campers looking for a wilder experience. Since these areas have no facilities, you'll need to bring everything with you, including all your water. Following Leave No Trace practices helps keep these areas natural for future campers. Rules require setting up at least 200 feet from any water sources on public lands. You can stay up to 14 days in most areas before needing to move. Many access roads are rough and rocky, so vehicles with good clearance do best. The basic nature of these sites connects you directly with the surrounding environment. Remember to pack out all your trash since there are no garbage cans around. Check current fire rules before your trip, as restrictions change based on conditions. With no bathrooms or showers, you'll need to plan for handling waste properly. The night skies make up for the lack of amenities, with stars clearly visible far from city lights. The quiet of these remote spots gives you a break from San Diego's busy atmosphere. If you're prepared for self-sufficient camping, the backcountry around San Diego has some great remote spots.
