Free camping sites in the SD area? (San Diego, El Centro: motorhome, to buy)

[Laocoön]

And rules and regs of these camp sites? (How many days, etc.)

Also, how safe?

[oddstray]

There appears to be free camping in some of the remoter parts of Mt. Laguna, because we've seen people camped off Thing Valley Road/La Posta Road.

Otherwise the closest free camping that I know of is way east, into the desert, in BLM land or out at the Slabs.

Of rules and regs and safety, I know nothing.

[1AngryTaxPayer]

Originally Posted by oddstray

There appears to be free camping in some of the remoter parts of Mt. Laguna, because we've seen people camped off Thing Valley Road/La Posta Road.

Otherwise the closest free camping that I know of is way east, into the desert, in BLM land or out at the Slabs.

Of rules and regs and safety, I know nothing.

You can camp for free in many parts of the E County, any place that is BLM or Forest Service areas. Try to camp in a group as it is a major smuggling route from Mexico. You'll see BP all over the place out there.


Don't forget about the many Mt Lions

[shmoov_groovzsd]

I am going to echo everyone else here. I woudnt call it "safe" though, which is what you are looking for as well. If you havent a clue about the kinds of indigenous creatures inhabit these less traveled camping areas, it might be best to just pay the $10 or $12 to just camp at a County or State park then go hiking or what not during the day. We have a vast amount of trails, camping etc and you can book a tent site online.
County of San Diego: Camping Park Information

[oddstray]

Originally Posted by 1AngryTaxPayer

You can camp for free in many parts of the E County, any place that is BLM or Forest Service areas. Try to camp in a group as it is a major smuggling route from Mexico. You'll see BP all over the place out there.


Don't forget about the many Mt Lions

Hey, thanks! I didn't know there was that much free camping available.

Cleveland National Forest - Frequently Asked Questions

BLM CA El Centro - Camping

[Jenkay]

Originally Posted by oddstray

Hey, thanks! I didn't know there was that much free camping available.

Cleveland National Forest - Frequently Asked Questions

BLM CA El Centro - Camping

You still have to buy a wilderness pass for the Cleveland National Forest, so technically it's not free.

I'd be careful-ish camping out on BLM land out in the desert, too- as in, I wouldn't go by myself, and it's preferable to be in a motorhome or something you can secure at night. There's a lot of sketchy characters that like to take advantage of a free place to land. It's *probably* OK, but I've seen a lot of weirdness out there over the years.

Not to discourage anyone, just sayin' use some caution or get to know the locals.. No matter how empty it seems there's always locals

[1AngryTaxPayer]

Originally Posted by oddstray

Hey, thanks! I didn't know there was that much free camping available.

Cleveland National Forest - Frequently Asked Questions

BLM CA El Centro - Camping

Welcome

Originally Posted by Jenkay

You still have to buy a wilderness pass for the Cleveland National Forest, so technically it's not free.

I'd be careful-ish camping out on BLM land out in the desert, too- as in, I wouldn't go by myself, and it's preferable to be in a motorhome or something you can secure at night. There's a lot of sketchy characters that like to take advantage of a free place to land. It's *probably* OK, but I've seen a lot of weirdness out there over the years.

Not to discourage anyone, just sayin' use some caution or get to know the locals.. No matter how empty it seems there's always locals

It's also legal to be packin in those areas I'm always carrying in the back Country. Illegals, drug smugglers, stuff that wants to kill you and stuff that thinks you might be a tasty snack. If you come upon a pot growing setup the WILL be armed. I'd like to think I at least can keep their heads down.

Forgot to add, you need to "register" at either some stores or the Ranger stations (or find one) and they will issue you a free permit. They need to know who is in there in case of a fire or you don't show up to work for a week

[Jenkay]

Originally Posted by 1AngryTaxPayer

Welcome



It's also legal to be packin in those areas I'm always carrying in the back Country. Illegals, drug smugglers, stuff that wants to kill you and stuff that thinks you might be a tasty snack. If you come upon a pot growing setup the WILL be armed. I'd like to think I at least can keep their heads down.

Forgot to add, you need to "register" at either some stores or the Ranger stations (or find one) and they will issue you a free permit. They need to know who is in there in case of a fire or you don't show up to work for a week

All true. I'm not sure how this fits in with the OP's looking for "safe" places, but I'm pretty OK with it myself

[1AngryTaxPayer]

Originally Posted by Jenkay

All true. I'm not sure how this fits in with the OP's looking for "safe" places, but I'm pretty OK with it myself

Some are safer than others. People just need to know it ain't all a picnic (pun intended). You will see signs in some areas that read, "Travel in this area alone not advised". Mostly closer to the border

You can find great spots close to where some locals live.

[Oerdin]

Originally Posted by oddstray

Hey, thanks! I didn't know there was that much free camping available.

Cleveland National Forest - Frequently Asked Questions

BLM CA El Centro - Camping

I was going to say any of the BLM land would fit the bill and there is a lot of it in the county. All BLM land is free to camp in though you need a permit to have a camp fire (not that the rangers will really bother you unless they just happen to see you though).