Best Camping near Angeles National Forest

Are you in need of a campground near Angeles National Forest, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Angeles National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Angeles National Forest, CA (172)

    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon

    1. Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon

    24 Reviews
    78 Photos
    223 Saves
    Acton, California

    Soledad Canyon RV Resort is a beautiful campground with resort-style amenities nestled at the base of the San Gabriel mountains. This Los Angeles RV campground is well shaded with towering cottonwood trees and Italian Stone Pines as well as Palm and Elm trees. It boasts the largest swimming pool in the west surrounded by 15 acres of picnic areas. Our family lodge is large with a lot of activity going on. On the other side of Soledad Canyon RV Resort is an area designed for adults, with a private swimming pool. Our Thousand Trails' Los Angeles RV campground is located about 15 minutes away from major shopping centers and 1 hour from attractions like Universal and Six Flags Magic Mountain, although when you're at Soledad Canyon RV Resort you feel like you're away from it all. Los Angeles RV campground by the San Gabriel mountains Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Soledad Canyon RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground

    2. Buckhorn Campground

    20 Reviews
    86 Photos
    678 Saves
    Juniper Hills, California

    Buckhorn Campground can be the quick escape you need from LA. The campground is drenched in the fresh air with the smell of incense cedars surrounding visitors. Overnight, campers may spot seasonal constellations, planets, and the occasional shooting star. During the day, visitors can venture to nearby waterfalls or trails including the Burkhart Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Silver Moccasin. Buckhorn Campground has much to offer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

    3. Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

    26 Reviews
    69 Photos
    666 Saves
    Valyermo, California

    Overview

    Crystal Lake is open, however, campsites are no longer available for reservation on Recreation.gov. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Located near the lake at the Crystal Lake Recreation Area and San Gabriel Canyon at an elevation of 5,600 feet. The climate is nice. Areas for tents are provided. Motorized boats are not allowed on the lake.

    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilao Campground

    4. Chilao Campground

    16 Reviews
    51 Photos
    595 Saves
    Mount Wilson, California

    Chilao Campground sits at an elevation of 5,300 feet, giving campers majestic panoramas of nearby Vetter Lookout and Big Tujunga Canyon. The campground offers two different loops for tent camping- Little Pines, and Manzanita. Each loop offers 40+ sites for camping. Both loops remain open until a major snowfall makes it impossible to enter a loop. It's also important to note that wildlife is very active in this area and campers should ensure they secure their food in proper receptacles.

    84 campsites spread out over 2 loops. Vault toilets. Piped water. Trash facilities. Accessible campsites.

    Chilao Campground sits at an elevation of 5,300 feet, giving campers majestic panoramas of nearby Vetter Lookout and Big Tujunga Canyon. The campground offers two different loops for tent camping- Little Pines, and Manzanita. Each loop offers 40+ sites for camping. Both loops remain open until a major snowfall makes it impossible to enter a loop. It's also important to note that wildlife is very active in this area and campers should ensure they secure their food in proper receptacles.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs

    5. Bonelli Bluffs

    37 Reviews
    84 Photos
    326 Saves
    South El Monte, California

    Lakeside camping in LA county is possible at Bonelli Bluffs RV resort and campground in San Dimas, California! Our lush property is much more than a place to pull into and rest your head. It's a community surrounded by majestic mountain views, lush landscapes, and resort-style amenities. Vacations should feel special and revitalizing - at Bonelli Bluffs, it's easy.

    We're located just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles, at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Here, Bonelli Bluffs offers a peaceful reprieve from city life. Come enjoy nature, relax and explore the nearby attractions in San Dimas, California. Moreover, you don't even need to leave the campgrounds to have a good time. Our amenities include a beach-front park, two sparkling pools, outdoor fire pits, and activities galore.

    While the natural beauty and views bring most visitors to Bonelli Bluffs, the nearby town of San Dimas is also highly appealing. Here, and in the nearby town of Pomona, you'll discover fantastic restaurants, shops and plenty to see and do.

    So, if you're looking for the perfect place to bring your RV or to pitch a tent and camp, you've found it at Bonelli Bluffs. Moreover, we offer hundreds of sites on our 2,000 acres of meticulously preserved campgrounds for RVs and tents. Visit our RV resort in San Dimas, California, to experience the beauty for yourself.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $76 - $88 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Coldbrook Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coldbrook Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coldbrook Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coldbrook Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coldbrook Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coldbrook Campground

    6. Coldbrook Campground

    18 Reviews
    62 Photos
    712 Saves
    Glendora, California

    Coldbrook Campground offers 22 shaded campsites*__at the intersection of Coldbrook and Soldier Creeks that are open year round. Available on a first-come, first-serve basis, each campsite can fit up eight people and two vehicles (additional fee applies for the second vehicle). This campground is less populated then nearby Crystal Lake Recreation Area. However, it does reach capacity on most summer weekends. Each campsite has a fire pit and grill, and picnic tables are available on the grounds. Potable water is available on the campgrounds.__The trailhead for the 7-mile round trip hike to the summit of Smith Mountain is just 1/3 of a mile away and the popular Bridge to Nowhere hike is a short drive away. RV's are allowed up to 22 feet, but there are no hookups for electricity or waste.*Note: Camping - $12 per night per site, $5 for extra vehicle. Day use - $5 per vehicle.__Adventure Pass will be honored for day use. Campsites are first-come-first-served. Adventure Pass required for vehicles parked outside the campground. A California Campfire Permit is required.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground

    7. Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground

    12 Reviews
    15 Photos
    311 Saves
    Mount Wilson, California

    5,300-foot elevation. 84 campsites. Some of the toilets are accessible for visitors with disabilities. Maximum RV length 40 feet. No Hookups. Be Aware of Bear Activity. Little Pines Loop is open and sites are $12/night. Manzanita Loop is closed for the season. Campsites are first come - first served.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Table Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Table Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Table Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Table Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Table Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Table Mountain Campground

    8. Table Mountain Campground

    21 Reviews
    9 Photos
    327 Saves
    Wrightwood, California

    Overview

    Table Mountain, just a short journey northwest of the Los Angeles metro area, provides a beautiful escape from urban life. Campers will find hiking, mountain biking, birding and countless other recreation opportunities. The surrounding landscape is also ideal for scenic drives.The campground sits in the Angeles National Forest, spanning 694,187 acres over most of the San Gabriel Mountain range. The forest boasts spectacular scenery and 557 miles of hiking and equestrian trails.

    Recreation

    The Table Mountain Nature Trail runs through the campground, and visitors can spot birds, squirrel, deer and the California condor. The Angeles Crest Scenic Byway is a highly recommended drive that extends through oak thickets, chaparral, high desert landscapes and pine tree forests along the highest and most scenic ridges of the San Gabriel mountain range.

    Natural Features

    Table Mountain is set in a hilly, oak and pine forest with two large meadows and beautiful views. At an elevation of 7,000 feet, summer temperatures average in the low 80s with cool nights.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (760) 316-7828.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Angeles Crest Highway, part of California State Route 2, is a scenic byway that meanders through oak thickets, chaparral, high desert landscapes and pine tree forests. The ski resort town of Wrightwood is very close by. Restaurants and a disc golf course can be found at the North Resort. Take a hike on the Blue Ridge Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail. The Pacific Crest Trail is an impressive path that starts in Mexico and zigzags its way through Angeles and continues north across California, Oregon and Washington.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $500 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Monte Cristo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Monte Cristo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Monte Cristo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Monte Cristo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Monte Cristo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Monte Cristo Campground

    9. Monte Cristo Campground

    8 Reviews
    16 Photos
    396 Saves
    Mount Wilson, California

    Monte Cristo Campground recently underwent a complete renovation. All campsites in the campground were totally revamped during the renovation. There are now 19 individual camp sites with sites #6 and #7 as double sites. In order to ensure fee compliance site #6 was designated as #6A and #6B; and site #7 was designated as #7A and #7B. This is to inform the public if both A and B sites are occupied at #6 and #7, campers will be required to pay double to occupy the double sites.

    3600' elevation
    19 campsites
    Campsites are first-come-first-served. 

    Accessible,Tent camping,Camping trailer,Fee charged for some activities,Picnic tables,Toilets,Drinking water,Parking

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Flats Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Flats Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Flats Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Flats Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Flats Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Flats Campground

    10. Horse Flats Campground

    8 Reviews
    31 Photos
    399 Saves
    Juniper Hills, California

    Due to winter road damage, low clearance vehicles are not recommended. At a Glance: 5,000' elevation 26 campsites There is currently no piped water available at Horse Flat Campground. Please bring enough water for cooking, cleaning, drinking, and extinguishing campfires. Equestrian facilities include 4 corrals, hitching rails $12 per night per site. Campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis. No reserving or holding of campsites allowed. Checkout/Change of day is at 11 am. Maximum RV length 20 feet - No Hookups What to Expect Horse Flats Campground offers 26 campsites with plentiful shade options at a lofty 5000-foot elevation. It also has accessible hiking opportunities such as the Silver Moccasin National Recreation Trail, some excellent areas for mountain bikers, and, as the name implies, equestrian resources that include with four corrals and several more hitching posts. It is an easy 90-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles up Angeles Crest Highway (HWY 2) to inhale crisp mountain air scented with Jeffrey Pines and Mountain Mahogany. Mt Hillyer's silhouette and various wildlife make for an excellent backdrop for a day hike. With it being only 18 miles as the crow flies from downtown, it makes for a quick easy getaway from the summer heat.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $12 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 172 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Angeles National Forest

Recent Reviews in Angeles National Forest

766 Reviews of 172 Angeles National Forest Campgrounds


  • vector J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood RV Park
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Hollywood RV Park

    Thats good

    This location is conveniently situated near the heart of Los Angeles, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the city’s many attractions. The facilities are well-kept, with clean restrooms and a friendly staff always ready to assist. However, the noise from nearby https://blockblast.link/ may be disruptive for those in search of a quiet getaway, so it's worth considering if peace and quiet are a priority before booking.

  • I B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood RV Park
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Hollywood RV Park

    Nice and friendly Staff, clean site

    Everything was fine. We stayed for 1 night to Visit L.A. . It was clean and the Staff was very nice. We called a night before and got a Site for our RV.

  • Thomas F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood RV Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Hollywood RV Park

    6/10

    This place offers a convenient location near the heart of Los Angeles, making it an excellent base for exploring the city's attractions. The facilities are well-maintained, with clean restrooms and helpful staff who are eager to assist guests. However, Block Blast noise from the surrounding area can be an issue, so those seeking a peaceful retreat might want to consider this before booking.

  • Kate
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Beach RV Park
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Malibu Beach RV Park

    pch camping

    we stayed in the tent campsites. beware the tent sites do NOT have electrical hookups. you also have to park and carry your things to your campsite. luckily, they have wheelbarrows to make that easier.

    woodfires are not allowed but propane fires are. there are showers, flush toilets, and water sources in the campground. the bathrooms have a lock and code needed for entry. the campsites are all pretty close together but no one was there when we arrived on a weekday. it didn’t get busy until people started showing up on saturday for the holiday weekend.

    when you first drive in, there is a convenience store up front where you check in.

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Valley RV Park
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Mountain Valley RV Park

    Decent for a quick stop

    Grounds seem well kept, the gravel was raked at our site when we pulled in. Restrooms are ok, the issue was that the lock them up at 10:00pm and don’t open until 7:30am. It would be so simple to put a code lock on the doors. You have to pay for WiFi, and the laundry machines are paid for by using a credit card for pay cards and the machine was out of cards. The only way to use it was to create an account with some vendor online! In the morning there were planes taking off, towing gliders, which was interesting to watch

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    beachfront

    Youre packed like sardines but it's beachfront. It's noisy if you have party neighbors but they do turn off the music by 1030 ish so it's enforced. You hear planes flying and tmobile wifi is not great at the campground but good when on the beach front. It's at prime location in LAX so that was nice to go around town. Has full hookups. We would come back again if we need to be near LA area.

  • Suly&Fabian L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Southfork Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Southfork Campground

    Nature beautiful, human horrible

    There are 21 campsites and not all have tree’s but its walking distance from the creek. Its nestled between mountains and the night sky is gorgeous. We saw wild ducks too and some other desert critters. Has it not been for the nasty animals called inconsiderate humans blasting their music and fighting amongst themselves bringing their family drama until 6am, the camp site would have been marvelous. No ranger to domesticate those animals and remind them of quiet hours. Another group even brought a dj and karaoke. Seriously, no consideration for the rest of the campers. They want to get away from the hustle and bustle and be with nature but they can’f live without the modern day amenities and bring that noise we are all trying to escape to a place of nature. They even had BB guns and shooting them within the campsite. Idiots. The day the ranger did come by he was giving tickets to vehicles with no pass. Wish he came at night when he was most needed. Bathrooms are poorly maintained too. Never coming back for an overnight stay, a day trip will suffice.

  • Anita A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Less crowded ocale while visiting family nearby

    Visiting family in Santa Ana and LA. Not to far for them to come to us and all to go to beach. Park clean and well maintained, personnel very kind and friendly Beautiful view from our site on area B. Crowded on weekend, much less during week Campground is not associated to adjacent Frank Bonelli Regional. Charge $12 to enter with vehicle but no fee to ride in on bikes

  • Jamie C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Buckhorn Campground

    Perfect peaceful getaway

    Just stayed 8/15-18/24, although hot during the day, it was the getaway we needed. The Burkhart trail to the waterfall was beautiful. Clean campsites. Some neighboring camps were louder than you'd hope but it is what it is. Our second trip here and will return for sure.

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Heaton flats
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Heaton flats

    Not always allowed

    Camping outside esablished campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders on https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles. Currently, camping is allowed for 7 days or less, see here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=78080 The people I saw camping here looked to have been set up somewhat permanently though. I wouldn't feel comfortable setting up a tent here, but it could be an okay rest area at the beginning/end of the hike to Bridge to Nowhere.

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Placerita Canyon State Park Group Campsites
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Placerita Canyon State Park Group Campsites

    Haven't stayed, by reservation only for groups

    I haven't stayed in this campground, but I added it to the Dyrt so people can find it as an option if they are searching for large group camping. You MUST call in advance to get permission and reserve for group camping.

    Things to do:

  • Julian M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Amazing experience, beautiful sunset

    Great campground, Great spots but unfortunately bit expensive .Very disappointed about the rules regarding fire, but I understood. I left from the campground after the sunset...fire allowed only with courchal...

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castaic Lake State Recreation Area
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

    Nice view, not bad, needs work

    We stayed in Loop A on a Thursday night in July. For us, it was a convenient overnight stop. It was a lot less crazy/ crowded than we expected for an LA County campground in the middle of summer! This site is on the lagoon, not the main lake, but had nice views and a good breeze in the heat. Very minimal space, not much shade. But the real issue was that the bathroom stalls in our loop (A) had no doors. I also doubt they are cleaned daily, though it wasn't terrible. Being close to the city, there were a ton of people meandering around, but they all seemed to be doing their own thing (e.g fishing or just walking), few suspicious characters. Lots of families and kids made it feel fairly safe for an urban campground. Not our favorite, but we would stop over here again in a pinch.

  • merlinda M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lupine Campground
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Lupine Campground

    Came across this place on a whim

    After trying to find an escape from the fireworks and trying campgrounds in surrounding areas to this one and all of them being full, we just kept driving (ended up off-roading) and found this hidden jem. Quite, dark, and one dirt road in n out. No amenities besides a picnic table & fire pit. There's an outhouse, but it's pretty gross..

  • merlinda M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Piru Recreation Area
    Jul. 5, 2024

    Lake Piru Recreation Area

    Great campsite

    Campsite was established, picnic table, fireplace, and electricity. Floor is gravel in some areas so bring a rake or broom for tent area. Our site was pretty close to bathrooms that had showers. 1.50 for 8 minutes, uses quarters. Has hot water. Rangers drive by selling wood and ice.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Manker Campground
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Manker Campground

    Mankers campground

    We spent 3days and 2nights here and enjoyed our stay, the caretaker was so nice! Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Beach RV Park
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Malibu Beach RV Park

    Stunning RVpark on a bluff over Malibu beach

    We enjoyed our one night stay we had a great spot overlooking the bay. The owners have a great plan and it looks like they are achieving their goal!

  • Tammy P.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake

    Close to the lake, can be very hot during the summer

    It usually stay empty and easy to get a site even in the peak season summer and spring but there is limited shades in most campsites and can get very hot during the days. There are not many trees around, Site 42 has really good shade but be aware of pocky leaves from those trees. My air mattress pop both times we camp there. There is not much around to do except pyramid lake close by which is nice and convenient to get to the water and go fishing or tubing. Also close by six flag.

  • joel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill Campground
    Jun. 15, 2024

    Sawmill Campground

    Forest road camping outside of Yosemite

    Having to find a spot kind of late at night after other spots were full pretty level spot overlooking a meadow and review of the sunset roads a little rough getting back in there used four-wheel drive pulling a teardrop

  • Donna H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood RV Park
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Hollywood RV Park

    As good as it gets for LA

    This quirky campground was safe, and that was what I needed while visiting friends in LA. This isn't a self-park park...the spaces are so close together that they use a cart to park you. On the upside, the bathrooms and showers were clean and plentiful, there was an area at the back of the park that was fenced for pups, and although the spaces were small, the park was landscaped such that you had some privacy. On the downside, the park is right next to the departure/arrival runway for Burbank and so if you don't fancy airplanes, you may not appreciate the noise. There is quite a bit of noise, but then again, you are in downtown Burbank. The owner is quite a character and told me that they even have an entertainment space where they offer musical performances, plays, etc. by local artists. He also mentioned that most of the park's customers were long-term residents that support the local production companies. I'm not sure if I would stay there again, but then again I'm not sure I'm interested in visiting Burbank again either.

  • Andrew S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Flat Campground
    May. 30, 2024

    Oak Flat Campground

    Everything I needed

    Free with the purchase of the adventure pass. I was here during the week and it was quiet and uneventful. Plenty of shade and simple. A bit of traffic noise but not too bad.

    I stayed here as part of my 2 month camping journey through SoCal. Really easy site to find.

    Toilets were clean. Bring your own water.



Guide to Angeles National Forest

Camping near Angeles National Forest, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. Many campers enjoy the Burkhart Trail leading to a waterfall, which one visitor described as “beautiful” during their stay at Buckhorn Campground.
  • Fishing: Anglers can find great spots at nearby lakes. One family at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area noted, “Fishing was fantastic, hiking was breathtaking. Loved every minute.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for bears and other wildlife. A camper at Chilao Campground shared their experience of encountering a bear at night, saying, “We yelled ‘go bear’ and it did in fact, go.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms. One visitor at Bonelli Bluffs remarked, “Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen.”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground said, “Very nice and friendly people work at the cafe at the entrance.”
  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Table Mountain Campground offer stunning views. One camper noted, “Really nice spot with amazing views.”

What you should know:

  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. A camper at Soledad Canyon RV and Camping Resort mentioned, “The weekdays are really quiet, maybe 15 to 20 RVs in the F area, but weekends fill up completely.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Lake Piru Recreation Area pointed out, “It’s a little hard to feel like you’re getting away with how close the sites are to each other.”
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are known to roam in the area. A camper at Coldbrook Campground advised, “Be careful with your garbage and everything around it as bears appear looking for food.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring Entertainment: Some campgrounds lack playgrounds or activities for kids. A family at Bonelli Bluffs had to get creative to keep their children entertained due to the absence of such facilities.
  • Plan for Distance: If you’re near a lake, be prepared for a longer walk. One family at Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground found the walk to the lake longer than expected, making spontaneous trips less feasible.
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can help keep kids happy during downtime. A camper at Buckhorn Campground enjoyed the peacefulness and noted that it was a great spot for family BBQs.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Soledad Canyon RV and Camping Resort mentioned that some sites are not suitable for larger RVs.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon noted, “We normally have pretty bad cell reception.”
  • Bring Your Own Wi-Fi: If you need internet access, consider using a mobile hotspot or satellite service. A reviewer at Soledad Canyon RV and Camping Resort mentioned that Starlink works well if you don’t park under trees.

Camping near Angeles National Forest, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a little planning and the right expectations, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Angeles National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Angeles National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 172 campgrounds and RV parks near Angeles National Forest and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Angeles National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Angeles National Forest is Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon with a 3.8-star rating from 24 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Angeles National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Angeles National Forest.

  • What parks are near Angeles National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Angeles National Forest that allow camping, notably Mojave River Dam and Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.