Best Dispersed Camping near Temecula, CA

Several dispersed camping areas sit within driving distance of Temecula in Southern California. The San Gorgonio Wilderness has basic sites where you'll need to handle everything yourself and follow Leave No Trace rules. High Creek Campground gives you remote spots, but you'll have to hike in to reach them. Since these are undeveloped areas, bring your own water and plan to pack out all trash. Rules state that you must camp at least 200 feet from water and roads. You can stay up to 14 days in most places. Many of the back roads need high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. Fire bans happen frequently during dry months, so check current rules before going. These remote spots let you camp away from crowds with good views. Rangers enforce the pack-in, pack-out rules strictly. Weather around Temecula can change quickly, and it's usually cooler in the mountains. Most people camp here during spring and fall when temperatures are better and fewer people are around. Always call ahead about closures or fire restrictions before heading out.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Temecula, California (16)

    1. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    3 Reviews
    Idyllwild, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2921

    "Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA."

    "Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)"

    2. Thomas Mountain Road

    2 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    29 miles

    "Nice spot, close to road with shade from the trees"

    3. Chinouapin Zone San Bernardino National Forest

    1 Review
    Idyllwild, CA
    30 miles

    "There is plenty of space along the trail and it is just a GORGEOUS area to wake up to. Can’t believe it’s in southern California"

    4. Strawberry Junction — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    1 Review
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    32 miles
    Website

    $5 / night

    "This campsite is located at the junctionof the Deer Springs Trail and the PCT, and is breathtaking."

    5. East Flats

    11 Reviews
    San Bernardino National Forest, CA
    49 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."

    6. San Gorgonio Summit Camp

    5 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    45 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."

    8. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

    2 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    44 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."

    9. Vivian Creek Camp

    1 Review
    Forest Falls, CA
    43 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."

    10. Galleta Meadows, Borrego Springs

    2 Reviews
    Borrego Springs, CA
    49 miles

    "On the outer southern edge of Borrego Springs is this private yet free camp area.

    A few dozen sites exist, each some five hundred feet or more apart."

    "The best feature of this free camping area is the awesome metal sculptures right near this campground. 

    Near the cute town of Borrego Springs, just a little off Borrego Springs road."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Temecula, CA

25 Reviews of 16 Temecula 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.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 14, 2024

    Yaqui Wash

    If you just want to get outdoors...

    There are a bunch of campsites along a service road that is parallel to a main road, several hundred feet away. This whole area is essentially within one valley, so you have mountains on both sides. It is well vegetated and allows for fairly easy hikes up the soft slopes.

    The parking spots are right alongside the road, so for van camping is not so great, but tents can be put away from the road and therefore it's much more suitable for tenting.

    The stretch of dirt road closest to the main road is Sandy, but manageable bull in a two wheel drive. This is where most of the campsites are. Further along the road, there are fewer camp sites, so they are more dispersed, however the road becomes more rocky and jutted, but for those wanting a bit more privacy, this is the spot to be.

    I would like to come back in camp in this location. So i'm going to mark it to return another time.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 22, 2025

    Galleta Meadows, Borrego Springs

    Galleta Meadows - Rusty Creatures and Dark Skys

    On the outer southern edge of Borrego Springs is this private yet free camp area.

    A few dozen sites exist, each some five hundred feet or more apart. All have views of the surrounding mountains, and the wide open skies.

    Borrego Springs is a dark sky community, which means lights are kept to a minimum, thus enabling great star viewing.

    The area is renowned for its hiking and other outdoor activities. It is also known for its iron sculptures, which many exist within this camp area.

  • Kathy B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 27, 2025

    Galleta Meadows, Borrego Springs

    Easy Access, Fun Place

    The best feature of this free camping area is the awesome metal sculptures right near this campground. 

    Near the cute town of Borrego Springs, just a little off Borrego Springs road. Not secluded by any means. Please use existing pull outs. Keep it clean so we can continue to enjoy this free spot. 

    It's one road in. The further back you go, the more privacy. I stayed fairly close to the front as I was only there one night.

  • 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.

  • J
    Jun. 9, 2021

    East Flats

    Terrific Dispersed Spot

    My wife and our friends love this spot. 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.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 6, 2024

    East Flats

    Nice lake!

    No amenities but still nice and the price is right!

  • Alexis O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 7, 2024

    East Flats

    great spacious area

    loved this spot. easy to find & very lowkey, with ample spaces to choose from. no amenities & great cell service.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2024

    East Flats

    Great secluded location

    First time car camping. Solo trip with my fur babies. Trails a little rough but good thing I have X-Mode on my Subaru. Lol. Arrived around 5:30pm on a Wednesday. Drove past a few campers. A few with big RV’s. Closest camper is about 30 yards away. Could barely hear their generator running. Planned on staying a few nights but after the first night I was told there was a big archery event and that the whole campground was reserved so I had to pack up and leave.


Guide to Temecula

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Temecula, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can enjoy the great outdoors while soaking in stunning views.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Temecula, California

  • Look for spots like South Ridge Yellow Post Sites, which offers a private camping experience with breathtaking views and a pleasant climate.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities; many areas, such as Little Thomas Dispersed, do not provide drinking water or restrooms, so plan accordingly.
  • Bring plenty of mosquito repellent, especially if you’re camping in areas like Thomas Mountain Road, where insects can be a nuisance.

Scenic hikes for dispersed campers

Dispersed campers should check out East Flats

  • East Flats is a well-reviewed spot that allows for easy access and offers a peaceful environment, ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.
  • This area is pet-friendly, making it a great choice for campers who want to bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
  • With no permit required, East Flats is an accessible option for spontaneous trips into the wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free dispersed camping available in Temecula, CA?

Yes, free dispersed camping is available within driving distance of Temecula in the surrounding national forests and public lands. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites near Hemet offers free, first-come-first-served camping in secluded forest settings. Coon Creek Yellow Post provides multiple free camping spots with some areas that accommodate larger rigs, though the road gets rougher as you proceed upward. These sites typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis and can fill quickly on weekends. Always check current regulations before heading out, as fire restrictions may apply seasonally, and some areas require adventure passes for parking.

Where can I find BLM land for dispersed camping near Temecula?

While Temecula itself has limited BLM land, you can find dispersed camping opportunities within driving distance. Yaqui Wash offers dispersed camping along a service road with mountain views on both sides and vegetated areas perfect for hiking. Another option is Galleta Meadows, Borrego Springs, which provides free camping on the southern edge of Borrego Springs with sites spaced well apart. Both areas require you to pack in and out all supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles. For BLM land near Temecula, heading east toward the desert areas will provide more options, with most sites requiring high-clearance vehicles for access.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites in Temecula?

Dispersed camping sites near Temecula are typically primitive with minimal to no amenities. East Flats offers no facilities but provides good cell service (including 5G Verizon in some areas) and enough space between campsites for privacy. Some campers bring generators. At Thomas Mountain Road, you'll find only three designated sites with fire rings, though there's plenty of space to camp without them. Most dispersed sites require you to pack in all water, pack out all trash, and bring portable toilets or practice proper waste disposal. Some yellow post sites may provide basic fire rings and picnic tables, but you should be prepared for self-sufficient camping with no water, toilets, or garbage services.