Free Camping Collection
Established Camping
Gould Mesa Trail Campground
Gould Mesa Trail Campground, near Flintridge, California, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle without straying too far from the city. This campground offers a unique blend of nature and accessibility, making it perfect for a quick getaway or an overnight adventure.
With a few tent sites scattered around, you'll find a bit of privacy while still being close to the action. Visitors rave about the nearby stream, which provides a refreshing water source—just remember to bring a filtration system. As one camper noted, “The stream is great. If you have a filter, there is no need to hike in water.”
For those who enjoy hiking, there’s a fantastic six-mile trail leading to two waterfalls just behind campsite one. It’s a great way to cool off after a day of exploring. The area is also popular with hikers and mountain bikers, so expect some friendly faces passing by, but it’s not overwhelming.
While the campground doesn’t have running water or many amenities, it does have fire rings for cozy campfires under the starry sky. Just be prepared for a more primitive experience, as some campers have mentioned the lack of facilities like toilets and showers. Still, the natural beauty and the chance to connect with nature make Gould Mesa a solid choice for your next camping trip.
Description
US Forest Service
Angeles National Forest
Water is from a stream - come prepared with your own or have a way to filter/purify
5 Hike-in campsites- Picnic tables and campfire rings, vault toilets, trash receptacles, no piped water available. Seasonal stream water (treat before using). However, water flow may be low or non-existent due to reduced rainfall. Please bring enough water for cooking, cleaning, drinking, and extinguishing campfires.
Equestrian: Hitching Rail (52 linear feet).
Gould Mesa Trail Camp is a hike-in campground located 2 miles from Ventura Street on the Gabrielino Trail. Being only a few miles away La Canada-Flintridge, it offers a quick-respite for the weary hiker. Those choosing to start in Altadena near the Jet Propulsion Laboratories will walk through riparian groves along a tranquil steam surrounded by steep ridges. The trek to Gould Mesa Trail Camp is 5.1 miles round trip with 300 feet of elevation change.
Fee Info
You must have a CA campfire permit in order to build a fire.
Reservation Info
First come first serve
Location
Gould Mesa Trail Campground is located in California
Directions
Location: Accessible by the Gabrielino National Recreation Trail. From Interstate 210 WEST in La Canada, take Windsor Ave. Turn right on Windsor to Ventura St. and park. Take the Gabrielino Trail 2 miles to the campground. OR from Interstate 210 exit at the Angeles Crest Highway (Hwy. 2) and head north about 2 miles. Park on the right before you enter the forest and hike the dirt road 1 mile past the power substation to the campground.
Coordinates
34.2220003 N
118.17800067 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- 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 Gould Mesa Trail Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 25 min from Los Angeles
- 1 hr 3 min from Oxnard
- 1 hr 26 min from Bakersfield
- 2 hrs 3 min from San Diego
