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Established Camping

Bear Canyon Campground

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Bear Canyon Campground is near Flintridge, CA, and is surrounded by rugged terrain with dense forest cover. The area experiences temperatures ranging from 40°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Angeles National Forest and the scenic Mount Wilson Observatory.

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Location

Bear Canyon Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

34.24418165 N
118.139713 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Bear Canyon Campground needs a permit.

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General Info


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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed May. 6, 2021

Creek Gorgeous-ness

Crossing the tiny bridge at the west end of Switzer Picinic area(park up top during the weekdays, adds half a mile), you’ll see Switzer Trail Camp. You snake up the hill(keep an eye out for those btw) and see breathtaking views from the top of the canyon, veer to the left down the hill and go downstream to the right. Switzer Falls is upstream to the left. Follow the creek( which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end. Trail tends to get iffy at points, but you kinda get to know the flow of it if it disappears into rocks or the creek. You start to go uphill again and the creek switches its flow so you’re suddenly walking up stream, then you’ll be there! There are fire rings but use responsibly- have lots of water at the pit to put it out, and make sure you do do that completely before you go to sleep. That place would go up faster than you can run, so be mindful. Animals love toilet paper, so make sure your cat holes are 6 inches deep because there are no toilets, and I did see the weekend crowds toilet paper and cig butts strewn about. Pack out ppl, pack out...

All in all, gorgeous place!! Breathtaking views and when the creek is ice-cold, you are just spoiled.

Sitebear canyon campground
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Bear Canyon Campground by Shannon E., May 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Bear Canyon Campground by Shannon E., May 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Bear Canyon Campground by Shannon E., May 6, 2021
  • (10) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at Bear Canyon Campground?

Bear Canyon Campground offers rustic facilities including three fire pits for cooking and warmth. The campground is located along Bear Creek which provides a year-round water source, though this may be seasonal. Visitors should note that you'll need to dig your own commode as there are no permanent restroom facilities. Firewood is scarce in the immediate area, so campers should be prepared to forage farther afield if they want to have a campfire, or better yet, bring their own firewood. The campground features multiple sites suitable for tent camping.

How do visitors rate their experience at Bear Canyon Campground?

Bear Canyon Campground receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with most awarding it 4 or 5 stars. Campers particularly appreciate its remote setting that offers a peaceful wilderness experience away from crowds. The campground's location along Bear Creek and the surrounding natural beauty are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. Visitors value the primitive camping experience and the opportunity to disconnect in a serene environment. The campground is especially recommended for those seeking a more secluded outdoor experience that requires some hiking to access.

Are there photos available to preview Bear Canyon Campground?

Yes, photos of Bear Canyon Campground are available online through various camping resources and official forest service websites. These images typically showcase the campground's natural setting along Bear Creek, the available fire pits, and the surrounding landscape with views of the canyon. Looking at photos before your visit can help you prepare for the primitive nature of this campground and appreciate the scenic beauty you'll encounter. Contact the Angeles National Forest office for official and up-to-date visual resources if needed.

How does Bear Canyon Trail Camp differ from the main campground?

The Bear Canyon area includes both the main campground and what appears to be a separate trail camp. The trail camp can be accessed via multiple routes, including from Tom Sloan Saddle or Switzer Falls Trailhead. When approaching from Switzer Picnic area, you'll cross a small bridge at the west end, then follow Switzer Trail Camp before continuing to Bear Canyon. The trail provides scenic canyon views as it winds through the landscape. Unlike drive-up campgrounds, both locations require hiking in, with Bear Canyon requiring a trek of several miles, making it more suitable for backpackers and those seeking a more remote wilderness experience.