Dispersed camping near Wildomar, California offers access to sites across the San Bernardino National Forest with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 11,500 feet. Summer temperatures at higher sites provide relief from Wildomar's valley heat, while winter brings snow at elevations above 5,000 feet. Most sites remain accessible from May through November, with seasonal road closures affecting winter access.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Near Vivian Creek Camp, you can follow the creek south to find cascades. "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!" reports one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: East Flats dispersed area offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper noted, "Saw multiple deer walking by our site" and another mentioned enjoying "wildlife sightings" during their stay.
Summit preparation: Use High Creek Camp as a base for breaking up longer hikes. A camper explains it's "a great place to stay as a overnight to break up a summit trip" with "the sound of the water" being a highlight of the camping experience.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer good separation between camping spots. 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."
Cell reception: Unlike many remote camping areas, several sites maintain connectivity. At East Flats, campers report "great cell service" with one mentioning, "I even have internet (Telekom)!" Another camper noted, "Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here."
Temperature moderation: Higher elevation sites provide relief from summer heat. At South Ridge Yellow Post Sites, a camper found "temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)" due to the higher elevation.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Road quality varies significantly between sites. For Mill Creek, "The road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas" and "There is no way that even a Class C rig would be able to take that steep incline."
Limited facilities: Pack in all necessities. At Thomas Mountain Road, "There are only 3 actual sites with fire rings, but there is plenty of room to camp without rings."
Permit requirements: Always check current permit status. For Vivian Creek Camp, "This is a good base camp for the summit" but permits are required, and "You have to get your permit early in the summer season" due to popularity.
Insects: Prepare for seasonal bugs. Some campers recommend you "bring extra mosquito repellent" and another camper at South Ridge noted "Mosquitoes come out at dusk—repellent is a must."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with flat, established spots for easier setup. At South Ridge Yellow Post Sites, campers found "a dirt/sand/rock surface. Site fits up to 8 people and 2 vehicles."
Wildlife awareness: Teach kids about local wildlife. One camper at East Flats mentioned, "Wildlife includes deer, lizards, snakes, woodpeckers, and lots of squirrels."
Weather preparedness: Pack for temperature fluctuations. At Chinouapin Zone, a camper described it as "a GORGEOUS area to wake up to. Can't believe it's in southern California," noting the contrast with lower elevation temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Assess your vehicle capabilities against road conditions. For East Flats, "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."
Leveling challenges: Prepare leveling equipment for uneven surfaces. One RVer at East Flats noted finding "multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome" that were "level."
Dust management: Take precautions with dusty conditions. A camper at East Flats found the area "super dusty" noting it was "Easy to drag in dust and very annoying."
