Tent camping near Anaheim, California encompasses a network of backcountry sites situated at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains. These sites experience temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night, even in summer months. While established campgrounds like Doheny State Beach offer beach camping options, the mountain camps require hiking distances from 2-8 miles to access their secluded environments.
What to do
Creek exploration: Hike down to flowing water at Valley Forge Trail Camp. Located in a canyon approximately 3.5 miles from the trailhead, this site offers multiple creek access points for filtering water. "There is usually a stream for filtering water. Plenty of sites for camping. Usually quiet when not too many people around," notes one camper who backpacked to Valley Forge Trail Camp.
Waterfall hiking: Access Millard Falls from camp. The falls sit just a half-mile from Millard Trail Campground, providing an easy nature walk. "There's a creek that runs through the campground which makes it very pretty. About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty," shares a camper who visited in March.
Mountain biking: Pedal on designated scenic routes. The road to Glenn Camp Campground is a National Scenic Bikeway with minimal elevation gain over its 6.5-mile length. One visitor explains, "Access to this campground is so easy, whether it's by car or by bike... it's an honest 6.5 miles of a relatively flat paved road." The route follows a river the entire way, making it ideal for beginners.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Experience true wilderness despite proximity to urban areas. Many backcountry sites offer significant isolation. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, one camper reported, "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own heartbeats laying there at night."
Wildlife encounters: Observe diverse animal species. While bears require proper food storage, many visitors encounter less threatening wildlife. A camper at Manker Campground described the area offering "many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds)."
Beach alternative: Camp directly on sand within driving distance. For those seeking water access without mountain hiking, Doheny State Beach Campground offers beachfront sites. "I love this park because you are right on the sand!" explains a camper, while another adds, "Sweet campsite at Dana point surf break."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before bringing cooking equipment. Many mountain campsites prohibit open flames during dry periods, with restrictions changing seasonally. One Valley Forge visitor advised, "Check for fire restrictions," while a Mount Lowe camper noted more emphatically, "Last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED."
Water availability: Filter natural sources or carry your own. Most backcountry sites have seasonal water access that requires treatment. At Spruce Grove Trail Campground, a camper explained, "There's no running water but the creek is usually running so come prepared with your own water and something to treat the creek water with."
Wildlife precautions: Secure food against animals. Both large and small creatures pose risks to unattended food. One camper at China Camp State Park warned, "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food."
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate hiking distances: Match trail length to children's abilities. Some trail camps require significant hiking that may challenge younger children. A camper who visited Valley Forge with new backpackers noted it's "a 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."
Consider campgrounds with amenities: Some sites offer tables and toilets. For families new to backcountry camping, certain sites provide more comfort. A visitor at Millard Trail Campground reported, "Each side has a picnic bench and a fire pit. The 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 campfire wood."
Plan for variable weather: Prepare for temperature fluctuations. Mountain campsites experience significant cooling after sunset. At Mount Lowe, one May visitor noted they "went in May this year so not much people around," suggesting shoulder seasons offer less crowded experiences but potentially cooler temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Beach camping alternatives: Consider tent/RV combo sites within driving distance. While most mountain sites are tent-only, some coastal options accommodate both. At Doheny State Beach, a camper explained: "This campground is sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and some active train tracks. But it's quite possibly the most beautiful yet easiest camping you'll do, shy of setting up a tent in your yard."
