Tent camping options near Alhambra, California center primarily on the Angeles National Forest, where elevations range from 1,200 to 8,000 feet across varied terrain. Trail camps in this area typically sit between 2,000-3,000 feet elevation, with summer temperatures reaching 90°F during day and dropping to 60°F at night. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, especially at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Visit Millard Trail Campground where a 30-minute upstream hike leads to a waterfall that remains flowing even in summer months. "Waterfall 30 minutes hike upstream. Nice campground, active stream in the middle of summer," notes Jeff B., who visited for a quick bikepacking trip.
Multi-day treks: Connect various trail camps for longer adventures using the extensive trail network. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, hikers can access multiple connecting trails. "You can get here multiple ways but once you do it's totally worth it. Secluded campground with toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," writes Anthony K.
Stream exploration: Follow winter creeks through canyon bottoms where water levels vary seasonally. "The Big Santa Anita Canyon Loop on Mount Wilson offers dog friendly free camping immersed in thick mountain woods with babbling creeks and numerous waterfalls," according to Mandy E. who camped at Hoegees Trail Camp.
What campers like
Proximity to nature despite urban closeness: Campers appreciate feeling remote while being just miles from the city. "It's a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos," writes Tony C. about Gould Mesa Trail Campground.
Beginner-friendly options: Several locations provide accessible first-time backpacking experiences. "Took some friends for their first ever backpacking trip, great intro to the experience. Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon," shares Kelly B. about Valley Forge Trail Camp.
Solitude on weekdays: Mid-week visits offer significantly less crowding at most trail camps. "I went during the week and was the only one camping. This place is heavily used for day camping and hiking," reports a visitor to Millard Trail Campground.
What you should know
Vehicle security concerns: Car break-ins occur at some trailhead parking areas. "WARNING: Make sure to leave your car doors unlocked, and nothing of value inside. You'd rather have someone root through your car and walk away empty handed than have a window broken and items stolen," advises Mathew H. at Millard Trail Campground.
Day hiker traffic: Most trail camps sit along popular hiking routes with daytime foot traffic. "This campground is not a campground if you want to get away from people because there is a lot of people passing by looking at you. You can't really be isolated or have privacy," explains Jessica P. about her experience at Millard.
Seasonal water availability: Stream flow varies dramatically by season and recent rainfall. "No water right now but that could change after first rain or snow," notes Anthony K. about Mount Lowe Trail Campground during a November visit.
Wildlife considerations: Bears inhabit the area, requiring proper food storage. "There are bears in the area so hang your food and keep your campsite clean," advises Mandy E. who camped in the Big Santa Anita Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Stream-adjacent sites for children: Choose camps with water features for natural entertainment. "The site is named for Hoegee's resort which stood just upstream. The concrete foundation in the center of the campground was a private cabin which burned down decades ago," explains David F. about Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, adding that it has "15 campsites, each with table, fire ring and wood-burning stove."
Short distance options: Select trail camps with briefer hikes for younger children. "It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings," notes Tony C. about Gould Mesa Trail Campground.
Educational opportunities: Some camps feature historical elements kids can explore. "Secluded campground with toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," writes Anthony K. about Mount Lowe Trail Campground.
Tips from RVers
Bikepacking alternative: When vehicle camping isn't available, consider bikepacking to accessible trail camps. "Access to this campground is so easy, whether it's by car or by bike. The trailhead to the campground is impossible to miss, as it is marked by a large parking lot and a sign marked 'Cogswell Dam'," explains Kevin L. about Glenn Trail Camp Campground, adding that "this campground is so perfect for bikepacking novices or those looking to do a gear check because it's an honest 6.5 miles of a relatively flat paved road."
Parking limitations: Most trailheads have limited parking that fills quickly on weekends. "Parking fills up within an hour on weekends so get there as soon as the parking lot opens at 6am," advises Mandy E. who camped in the area.
