Best Dispersed Camping near Trabuco Canyon, CA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Trabuco Canyon? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your California camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Trabuco Canyon, CA (4)

    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    1. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    4 Reviews
    6 Photos
    260 Saves
    Wrightwood, California

    These remote camping sites offer isolated scenic locations ideal for tent and car camping or a relaxing picnic far from the crowds. Other than a pit for campfires, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no picnic tables, no restrooms nearby, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out! All sites are first-come, first-served. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ's, or stoves. Campfires may not be allowed certain times of the year. See Current Conditions below or call the Lytle Creek Ranger Station (909-382-2851). These Yellow Post Sites are reached via Forest Road 3N06. Please refer to the Yellow-post site map available by clicking on this link or for free at the Lytle Creek Ranger Station. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching all sites. Four-wheel drive vehicles may also be required depending on current road conditions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    2. Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    1 Review
    14 Photos
    47 Saves
    Lytle Creek, California

    Please remember to LNT at dispersed campgrounds

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp

    3. Vivian Creek Camp

    1 Review
    9 Photos
    40 Saves
    Forest Falls, California

    Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.

    Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us

    The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Heaton flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Heaton flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Heaton flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Heaton flats
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Showing results 1-4 of 4 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Trabuco Canyon

7 Reviews of 4 Trabuco Canyon Campgrounds


  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Heaton flats
    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.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    May. 27, 2024

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Prepare the climb; also not for big RVs

    The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off. If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around. You climb a big steep hill to get to the turn in. On the way back down from the turnaround we almost burned out or brakes. We decided not to go to the site because it looked like a one lane road and too tight for our 35 ft bumper pull. Disappointed because pictures from others looked great and it is a beautiful area. We found a spot near the road that I’ll post for others.

  • Panda V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    Sep. 7, 2022

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Great spot for dispersed camping

    First time headed out here and it was a great spot for a disconnected weekend. Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot.

  • Nathaniel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
    Jun. 6, 2021

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Great if you have a 4x4

    Specs if this campground are wrong, no toilets/water/etc.

    Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck it similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc)

    If both are yes, this place is amazing.

    Deep in nature, beautiful area, no cost and you can almost always find a spot, even on a Saturday in summer.

    If you go the the end of 3N06 (main off-road path) there is a good hike that you can take for several hours.

  • Brittany N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Jul. 18, 2017

    Vivian Creek Camp

    The most beautiful campground!

    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. Nice dirt flat spots within the trees, looking down at the trail. This is a good base camp for the summit. You are a good distance from the trail so it doesn't seem to be a bother as far as noise. If you hike down to the creek and head South, that is where you will find the end of the waterfall. Becaful here though for I have seen a rattle snake not to far from the camp!


Drive Time


Guide to Trabuco Canyon

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Trabuco Canyon, California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of options for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Heaton Flats

  • Located near the trailhead to the Bridge to Nowhere, Heaton Flats provides a spacious area for camping, though it can get crowded on weekends.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Trabuco Canyon, California

  • Be sure to check for any recent camping regulations, as camping outside established campgrounds in the Angeles National Forest can sometimes be restricted.

Enjoy hiking while free camping near Trabuco Canyon

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Trabuco Canyon, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Trabuco Canyon, CA is Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 with a 3-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Trabuco Canyon, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Trabuco Canyon, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.