SBNF Dispersed Camping

[Zzarkzul]

Hello. I've been looking @ the USDA FS site for San Bernardino National Forest. Some friends and myself are going to go camping at the end of the month. We didn't know it was a holiday weekend until we already took the time off.. My question is about dispersed camping.

What I want to do is ride up the 2N33 (Pilot Rock Truck Trail) to the hairpin turn (just above Dart Canyon Rd) and park, and camp on the hill between that and Silverwood Lake.

Is this ok to do, or am I required to use one of their "Yellow Post" sites to camp. What I really want is a campsite all to ourselves, and would prefer not going to a designated spot because I am sure they'll all be packed on Memorial Day weekend. Obviously we will follow all their fire rules, and camp farther than 200ft from water or road etc.




ALSO


I have a 9mm P95, only handgun that I have. I also have a 12 gauge Single shot shotgun. We plan on bringing both to protect ourselves from wild animals and other unexpected things. I know 9mm is not recommended, but its all I have. What ammunition would you recommend?

[devilinblack]

As far as I've read the yellow post sites only matter for campfires and right now the danger is low so that may not be an issue at all. I know this is the case in Sequoia NF, and I don't know why SBNF would be any different. You'll need a campfire permit from either the ranger station or theres a NF page where you can download one. Other than that you should be good to go.

As for the guns, animals are not going to be much of a threat in your camp but I keep something similar on hand for two legged critters which are more of a threat.