169 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The San Gabriel Mountains surrounding La Cañada Flintridge, California provide a range of camping experiences within Angeles National Forest, from developed sites to primitive trail camps. Chilao Campground, located approximately 25 miles northeast along Angeles Crest Highway, offers both tent and RV camping with basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Closer to town, trail camps like Millard, Gould Mesa, and Valley Forge provide more rustic experiences for hikers and backpackers. These walk-in sites typically require a 1-3 mile hike and feature minimal facilities. Mount Lowe Trail Campground sits at higher elevation, offering cooler temperatures and forest views for tent campers willing to make the trek from nearby trailheads.
Fire restrictions and seasonal closures significantly impact camping options in this region. Most developed campgrounds in Angeles National Forest operate from April through November, closing during winter months due to snow and hazardous conditions. As one camper noted about Valley Forge Trail Camp, "It's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon. In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings." Adventure Passes are required for parking at many trailheads, while some sites require additional wilderness permits. Cell service is limited or nonexistent in canyons and remote areas. Summer brings high fire danger, with restrictions often prohibiting open flames during peak season.
Trail camps near La Cañada Flintridge receive praise for their accessibility and natural settings. Millard Trail Campground, just a short drive from Pasadena, features creek-side camping with approximately 4-6 sites in a shaded area. One reviewer described it as "a great spot to camp for the night if you don't have the time to drive out of the city." Weekend crowds can be substantial at popular sites, particularly during spring and summer. Wildlife sightings, including bears, are reported at some campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. The proximity to urban areas means some sites experience noise from nearby roads, though most campers find the convenience of these locations outweighs occasional disturbances.
"Campground We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up, when we say the sign for overflow camping near the exit of the Chilao campground loop"
"Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn’t ask for more"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"It's a very hot campground close to a road and train. Sites are big. Tons of things to do for adults and children."
"Surrounded my mountains, which is nice. Staff is happy and helpful."
"When you can’t do a 2h hike before setting camp, but you also don’t want to camp close to your car, Millard campground is perfect. The parking lot is just behind the corner out of view."
"Cool drive to get to the campground. You drive up and down these hilly roads up the mountain to get there. Once there, there's a parking lot that fits about 20 cars."
"Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van. I felt uncomfortable with that."
"This is just a few parking lots that overlook the valley and gives a view of the city skyline in the distance."
"Or one right next to you if you don't have one. The water does not taste too good, but it serves for washing. A bear was on our stuff the first night. I whistled and it ran away."
"It’s Close to Hidden Springs and Switzer falls, surrounding area is very beautiful. I’ll be back!"
from $12 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"OKAY... seriously this one of the best campgrounds near Los Angeles. My ultimate go to spot for an overnight camping trip."
"We were told that the water pumps were off but actually managed to camp right next to the one that was working. The bathrooms were super clean too!"
"Every “road” in the park is themed with California or Hollywood themed decorations and murals. We were parked right next to a Mister Roger’s mural across from the laundry/bathrooms."
"Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️"
"We went in May this year so not much people around. Brand new toilet is nice as well. There was some flowing water still."
"There's a stream nearby the Mount Lowe Summit Trail, also. Plenty of great sites to choose from."
"Trail camp is in the canyon so it’s an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon."
"Forage your way through the Valley Forge Trail, for an intimate night in the wilderness at one of its remote camps."
from $5 / night
Check Availability
GuideStopped here overnight from San Diego traveling up to Northern California. Nice little spot past the craziness of LA.
It’s just off the highway which makes it an easy stop. I was one of four people there
GuideVery relaxing in Hollywood themed RV Park. Owner is very helpful and will help you park your RV and setup. Dog park and full hookups. $90 per night.
ScoutCalled them around 5 times over several times on different days. They only allow a minimum of 2 nights stay. They had no spaces available 2 nights in a row. But there were multiple spots avaible on our nights. So i told them i didnt mind moving the RV, but they didnt want to cooperate on that and rather leave the spots open.
TravelerThe entrance is opposite of lone pine canyon rd . At night the train goes by . We saw a dead drop pickup in the morning. We woke to a car and motorcycle parked nearby- a lady and heavily tattooed guy were out walking around. They dug out 3 black bags from some brush and took off. So that was exciting.
ScoutI never had the chance to stay at this site. We’re so disappointed as it seems amazing. My reservation request expired and I never heard from them.
The reviews in Hipcamp are all so positive but none are newer than Aug 2025. So I wonder if they’re just not booking anymore. Seems strange based on the effusive praise of the host. Hope they’re ok.
Wanted to leave this review so others are aware that they should have a plan B if they attempt to book this site.
RangerWhen you book a beachfront site in the flight path of LAX, you know there’s some things, and they do indeed have those things, but on the beach and close to the action. Great trail system, easier access in and out than I’d hoped, price less insane than I feared. Loud, crowded, and urban.
ScoutThe host is so kind, helped us to park our RV, showed us all around. Beautiful art pieces and history in this camp.
ScoutIt wasn't sure about camping there parks and camped in the tent wasn't bothered by anybody but we did see a bear so be cautious
ScoutWe just wanted a place close enough to Universal Studios so we could Uber there and not have to pay for Park Parking. Worked for that plus a 7/11 in walking distance was helpful!
Rafael could only text us but he did always answer back (sometimes it took a little bit longer which was in the middle of the day when we were updating him on our arrival time).
Overall it was a good stay and would definitely use the place again if we were wanting a place near that area.
If I had one critique, I would say it a little pricey for what it is but maybe that normal for the area.
Camping near La Cañada Flintridge, California offers wilderness escapes at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 5,700 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains. The Angeles National Forest encompasses over 700,000 acres surrounding the city, with campgrounds experiencing temperature variations of 15-20 degrees cooler than urban Los Angeles. Many sites feature unobstructed views of the Los Angeles Basin on clear days, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even during summer months.
Waterfall hikes: Start at Millard Trail Campground with a short half-mile trek to a seasonal cascade. "There is a stream of water that flows close to the campground and... a 30 minute hike upstream to the waterfall," reports Jeff B., who notes that the "waterfall trail is nothing but shade provided by the trees foliage."
Mountain biking: Access San Gabriel trails from multiple trailheads. One visitor at Valley Forge Trail Camp mentioned it's great for "hikers, bikers, and equestrians," while another noted "it's a doable hike from Red Box Junction" though occasionally "filled with downed trees" requiring "a little climbing and going around obstacles."
Astronomy: Night sky viewing opportunities abound at higher elevation sites. A camper at Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground recommends: "If you are there in the evening check out the sunsets through the canyons but make sure you are well insulated as the wind blew hard Saturday night."
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate thoughtfully spaced camping areas. "Chilao campground had sites that are very well secluded from others," notes Josh K., while another camper observed that at Monte Cristo Campground, "there are lots of trees and big stones, and a creek that runs thru seasonally."
Quick access from LA: The proximity to urban areas remains a major draw. "Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn't ask for more," wrote Luke V. about Chilao Campground, while another camper at Gould Mesa Trail Campground commented, "This is about a 15 minute drive then 30 minute hike from my house."
Natural water features: Streams enhance many sites. Tony C. noted at Gould Mesa "running stream at site so no need to bring a lot of water, just a filtration system and a jug," while another camper mentioned at Valley Forge that "the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite."
Fire restriction changes: Rules vary seasonally and by location. At Millard Trail Campground, one visitor reported "fire ban has been lifted so you can have a fire. Each fire pit had wood left at it so you didn't have to go searching for campfirewood." Always check current restrictions before your trip.
Wildlife precautions: Bears are present throughout the region. A camper at Millard shared, "It's in Bear country so they provide food storage for each campsite also trash containers too... I didn't see any bears although there was an animal outside my tent at one point in the night I could hear him nosing around."
Weekend crowds: Popularity impacts the experience. One visitor noted at Monte Cristo, "About 20 decent sized spots with firepits, picnic tables & water. Nice campgrounds with lots of trees and big stones," while another mentioned Chilao gets "crowded in the weekend... everyone wants to go out and enjoy the outdoors and awesome views."
Short hiking options: Several trails accommodate young hikers. Tom P. highlights at Millard Trail Camp "a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups" with "wild life all over the place."
Safety considerations: Plan for changing conditions. At Millard, one camper warned, "Be careful because there are black widows everywhere! Especially under the tables of the campsites. Be especially careful if you're traveling with kids."
Weekend timing: Weekday visits may work better. A visitor observed at Millard, "We had a lady who talked to herself and sometimes would yell," while another noted, "Don't go during week ends cause families bring their kids to camp." Midweek visits typically offer quieter experiences.
Site selection for larger rigs: Limited options exist for bigger vehicles. At Monte Cristo Campground, one RVer advised, "I pulled a 26 TT. I came in from the La side of the mountains and found it's easier to go in from Palmdale with a rv or tt. If your hauling anything longer then 20 ft. Try for site 11."
Hookup limitations: Most forest sites have minimal amenities. According to Butch C., urban-adjacent options like Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon offer "water, electric and sewer hookups available. During the season it is pretty crowded but if you go off peak it is very nice and quiet."
Access routes: Road conditions matter for larger vehicles. One RVer mentioned, "The road closest to our site was washed away, so a long jog or drive around the perimeter to get us to the pool, laundry and hot tub," while another advised, "Stay in the back side of the park as a rail line runs in front of the front side of the park."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping spots near La Cañada Flintridge?
La Cañada Flintridge offers several nearby camping options in the Angeles National Forest. Little Jimmy Trail Campground is a backcountry hike-in only site located just 2 miles off Angeles Crest Highway with first-come, first-served sites featuring fire rings and vault toilets. For easier access, Millard Trail Campground is a short drive from Pasadena with good hiking trails nearby, though you'll need to haul gear about 150 yards from parking. Other options include Gould Mesa Trail Campground and Mount Lowe Trail Campground for those seeking more primitive camping experiences close to La Cañada Flintridge.
What campgrounds are available in and around La Cañada Flintridge?
The area surrounding La Cañada Flintridge offers diverse camping opportunities. Chilao Campground in Angeles National Forest provides drive-in access with water and toilet facilities. For those willing to travel a bit further, Bonelli Bluffs offers family-friendly camping, though it lacks playground amenities. RV enthusiasts can explore Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake with its three site loops offering approximately 90 dry camping locations and water spigots in some areas. Additional options include Monte Cristo Campground and Lake Campground for varied camping experiences.
What amenities are available at La Cañada Flintridge campsites?
Campsites near La Cañada Flintridge offer varying levels of amenities. Joshua Tree Ranch Los Angeles provides a more secluded experience with beautiful sunset views and dog-friendly policies. For beachside amenities, Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park offers access to a private beach with gorgeous California hill views, making it suitable for both families and RVs. Most local forest campsites feature basic amenities like vault toilets and fire rings, while some provide water spigots. RV-specific sites typically include electric hookups and dump stations, though full hookups are limited in this mountainous region. Always check seasonal availability as some sites close during winter months.
Keep Exploring
