Dispersed Camping in the San Bernardino National Forest [Map]

We when overland, we almost exclusively seek out free, dispersed camping spots on public land. Lucky for us, we found a ton of options on our recent trip through Big Bear. Here’s a handy map I put together to help us find places:

Most of the points marked on the map are Yellow Post Sites. Yellow Post Sites are individual primitive camping sites that include a picnic table and fire ring. There are no other amenities, just like other dispersed sites you’d find. These are on dirt roads, and high-clearance vehicles with four-wheel drive are recommended.

Yellow Post Sites are first-come, first-served, and on our visit to Big Bear, each one we came across was already accounted for. But it’s important to note that these aren’t the only places you can camp in the San Bernardino National Forest. In fact, there are a bunch of non-Yellow Post sites marked on the map, and generally a lot more places to park it for the night in the area. Drive around a little, and you’re sure to find what you’re looking for!

On our first night in town, we popped open our tent south of the lake. The spot we camped wasn’t one I had pre-marked, but it turned out to be the perfect place to lay our heads for the night and listen to the owls in nearby trees.

When camping in this area, remember that you can only start a fire in a pre-existing fire ring. If you find another spot, you likely cannot have a fire. That said, it was a no-burn during our trip, so there were no fires allowed period. Be sure to get your California Campfire Permit if you intend to have a campfire or use a portable stove! And of course, pay attention to the local fire restrictions.