Little Jimmy Trail Campground

Fantastic in the snowy season.  Getting to Windy Gap usually requires spikes or crampons and axe, but it's well worth the effort.  There's also year-round running water at Little Jimmy Springs.  Right by PCT.  And also close to another Gem.  South Mt. Hawkins, but that one is unorganized, you'll have to search for a place for your bivy to lay if you set up there.

I've been to Jimmy multiple times in dirt, snow, and even a little rain.  It's not overly windy, because it's protected by a bunch of trees.  The peaks and saddles around it can get a little windy.

This campsite is located in California and is one of my favorites. Located above Crystal Lake you’ll find Little Jimmy, it’s a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway. It has around 7 first-come, first-served sites with fire rings, vault toilets (which are currently not in service), and vintage backcountry ovens. After parking at Islip Saddle, cross the highway and begin hiking for 2 miles up the switchbacks until you reach Little Jimmy Campground on your right. Popular with Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, this scenic spot offers a chance to get away from established campgrounds and live amongst the Coulter Pines and Big Doug Firs. Campers turned hikers have easy access to hop on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail which runs through the camp. There is no fee to camp here other than an Adventure pass for your parking. In the summertime, bears can be common visitors so make sure and secure your food in provided bear boxes or bring your own bear canisters. As always, make sure you follow the "Leave No Trace" principles and pack everything in and out!

My first backpacking trip was with my brother and husband and we went to little Jimmy campground. It was awesome!! The hike is less than 3 miles and the first mile is uphill. I did ok but I did take many breaks because I overloaded my backpack with unnecessary items. The hike is great though. Once you wind up at little Jimmy it was really a welcomed site. We looked around for a good site and found one quite secluded up a hill. The only problem was the wind at night. Good trees for a hammock too. The site is a short trail to the little Jimmy springs which was so tasty!!! I am yurning to go back. I can't wait!