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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed

Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed is located near varied terrain with hills and open spaces. The area experiences temperatures ranging from 40°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the historic town of Julian.

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Location

Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

32.67645491811355 N
116.09148299040737 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed needs a permit.

Drive Time


Reviews

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3.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed May. 7, 2023

Decent

Good if you need to get off the highway to catch some sleep. People shoot here so there’s shells, rusty metal, and broken glass everywhere.

Month of VisitMay
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed by Karin P., May 7, 2023
  • Review photo of Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed by Karin P., May 7, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jan. 7, 2023

Not bad

Decent spot to pull over and stretch the legs , stayed here for a full moon in the winter, some freeway noise but good enough

Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed by a A., January 7, 2023
Reviewed Oct. 12, 2022

Easy off the highway, scenic, but with a catch

People come out here to shoot so be warned! Theres also a lot of broken glass/rusty cans! Really pretty area though and tons of flat areas to choose from. You can spread out and go explore further up the road like we did. Need a car with clearance for just one part (no sedans). Easy on and off to the highway.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed by Rachel S., October 12, 2022
  • Review photo of Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed by Rachel S., October 12, 2022
  • Review photo of Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed by Rachel S., October 12, 2022
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is available.