Scoped it out a few weeks ago and thought it was an easy enough hike for a beginner (me) and his pal camp at. There were a dozen or so mountain bikers and about the same amount of hikers runners that venture by the campground throughout the day. Not enough to really ruin the experience, just enough to notice them there.

PROS:

* More quiet than in the city. You can hear cars driving off in the distance but still overall quiet.

* Close to LA. This is about a 15 minute drive then 30 minute hike from my house.

* The stream is great. If you have a filter there is no need to hike in water.

* Sites are spread out and not on top of each other like most other camp sites close to the city.

* It's FREE!!!!

CONS

* Lots of traffic. It's on a popular hiking trail so it's expected.

* Sometimes you get squatters. We had a lady who talked to herself and sometimes would yell.

Go behind campsite one and you will find a 6 mile hike in and out to two different waterfalls. Really fun and refreshing, limited shade in hike, so a dip at the end is so nice!

It’s a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos. It’s around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings. It’s known for squatters but didn’t encounter any unpleasant ones. Running stream at site so no need to bring a lot of water, just a filtration system and a jug. Pit toilets on site as well, bring your nose plugs and TP just in case. The trail continues past the campsite so you’ll get plenty of hikers throughout the day.

This is a nice hike-in campground with about ten sites available and a privy. Lots of hikers up here on the weekend ( and weekdays too). There's no running water but the creek is usually running so bring something to treat the water. The parking is available either at Oak Glen Park or further north on the streets...but check with the city on overnight street parking. Very beautiful now that the canyon vegetation has grown back in and there are plenty of trails in the area for miles of hiking. Lots of wildlife. Fire rings in camp sites but check for fire permits. Funny to see JPL scientists walking aroud up here with their ID badges hanging around their necks.

This campground has pit toilets and no running water. If you are in LA and looking for the back-country feel without a long drive, this is just a 3 mile hike or ride up the canyon from Altadena.