This first-come, first-served campground sits at 6,300 feet elevation in the Angeles National Forest, with 38 sites accessible via a narrow mountain road that limits RVs to 18 feet maximum. The $12 nightly fee covers access to drinking water, restrooms, fire pits, and bear lockers at each site.
Campers describe a campground set within a ravine where a seasonal stream creates a notably green landscape compared to surrounding areas. The tall pine and fir trees provide natural shade and, as one reviewer notes, "trees are perfect for hammocks." Wildlife sightings are common, though the proximity to Highway 2 means road noise carries through the campground during daytime hours. Weekend crowds and neighboring campers can create a party atmosphere that some find energizing while others seeking solitude may want to visit midweek.
The Burkhart Trail begins directly from the campground, leading through the stream valley to Cooper Canyon Falls. During summer months the waterfall runs as barely a trickle, but the trail maintains flowing water and offers a worthwhile hike. Day parking at the campground's end accommodates hikers not staying overnight. Additional trails provide access to peaks and even a historic plane wreck site on Mount Williamson.
Temperatures drop into the 40s at night even during summer months, making the elevation a natural escape from Los Angeles heat. The campground fills quickly on weekends, so early arrival ensures site selection. "Fire pits at every campground and easy to walk to hiking trail," observes one camper, though rangers sometimes advise that water spigots may not be potable.
For those wanting nearby alternatives, Cooper Canyon Trail Campground offers a similar elevation experience just half a mile west.
Description
Buckhorn Campground can be the quick escape you need from LA. The campground is drenched in the fresh air with the smell of incense cedars surrounding visitors. Overnight, campers may spot seasonal constellations, planets, and the occasional shooting star. During the day, visitors can venture to nearby waterfalls or trails including the Burkhart Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Silver Moccasin. Buckhorn Campground has much to offer.
Fee Info
$12 per night per site, $5 for extra vehicle. Campsites are first come-first served. No reserving or holding of campsites allowed.
Reservation Info
38 campsites, vault toilets. Piped water. 3 Accessible campsites.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBuckhorn Campground is located in California
Directions
From Interstate 210 in the city of La Canada, exit at Angeles Crest Highway (Hwy 2) and drive northeast for 36 miles.
Coordinates
34.36169159 N
117.91278428 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 12 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 1 hr 50 min from Oxnard, CA
- 2 hrs 14 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 2 hrs 50 min from San Diego, CA




































