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Camping near Angeles National Forest

810 Reviews

You can find a range of camping spots throughout Angeles National Forest's large mountain landscape. Buckhorn Campground sits deep in the forest and puts campers close to the Burkhart Trail that leads to a waterfall that many hikers like to visit. Esther Y, while temporarily closed right now, has been a top choice for many because of the views around it. Bears are common in these woods, so bringing bear-proof containers is necessary to store your food safely. The forest has both shady and sunny camping spots depending on what you prefer. Some sites feel private while others are closer together. Spring and fall work best for camping here when it's not too hot or cold. Summer temperatures can get high, and winter often brings snow that closes some areas. At Buckhorn, you'll find pit toilets and picnic tables but need to bring your own water. The forest is home to many plants and animals, which makes it good for watching wildlife. Angeles National Forest works well for both quiet camping and more active trips. It's smart to check if campgrounds are open before you go since closures happen. The natural setting of Angeles National Forest draws many campers throughout the year.

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Best Camping Sites Near Angeles National Forest (175)

    1. Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon

    25 Reviews
    Acton, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "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."

    2. Chilao Campground

    17 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 790-1151

    $12 / night

    "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"

    3. Buckhorn Campground

    20 Reviews
    Juniper Hills, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 899-1900

    $12 / night

    "Beautiful trails near by, next to a stream, gorgeous views, and of course that mountain air! Trees are perfect for hammocks."

    "It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."

    4. Monte Cristo Campground

    9 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 269-2808

    $12 / night

    "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!"

    5. Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground

    12 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 574-1613

    "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!"

    6. LA RV Resort at Action Camp

    7 Reviews
    Agua Dulce, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 268-1214

    $55 - $132 / night

    7. Californian RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Acton, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 269-0919

    "Easy access to freeway small grocery and great coffee shop close."

    "Gated park high on a hill; like driving the hills of SF with a trailer. Lots of pull thrus. Well kept and landscaped. Front desk helpful and friendly."

    8. Horse Flats Campground

    8 Reviews
    Juniper Hills, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 790-1151

    $12 / night

    "There are a few campgrounds in this area of the Angeles National Forest. Horse Flats is not as popular as Buckhorn, and is a little less "green" with regards to the immediate scenery."

    "Horse Flats is a popular campground deep in Angeles National Forest.

    There are a bunch of sites (more than 20) and there are vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables."

    9. Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

    26 Reviews
    Valyermo, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 335-1251

    "We’ve done Crystal Lake probably 6 dozen times or more in our time in California and it never disappoints on the spectacular views."

    "Whenever I need to get away from LALA Land, I head up here.  I grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania, so , sometimes , I need to kick back and recharge."

    10. Little pine campground

    7 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (747) 322-6574

    $12 - $24 / night

    "This side is on a first come first serve basis and does require you to self pay at the entrance where you find information on the board. Make sure to read everything it has lots of good information."

    "Easy campground to get to and close by. First come first serve sites. Does get crowded in summer season. Went there this weekend and very few people."

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Recent Camping Photos near Angeles National Forest

259 Photos of 175 Angeles National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Angeles National Forest

810 Reviews of 175 Angeles National Forest Campgrounds

  • B
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Tapo Canyon Park

    Favorite spot near LA

    The Camp Hosts here are Very Friendly and welcoming, the campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice, we highly recommend Tapo Canyon.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Great trip/great site!

    This place is great! We stayed on site 59 and it had so much space you can fit a ton of people on the site. We had a beautiful, big tree and a great view in the back of the site. Site 62 had the most beautiful view but no shade, but I want to book it for the cooler months. Showers and bathrooms were pristine!! Can’t wait to go back!

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Spaceport RV Park

    Only used the dump & water

    Handy stop for water & dump! $2 bucks for water & $5 bucks for the dump

  • Wayne S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    Nice little park

    Very small campground. Camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space. There were only two other campers here while we were here. Lots of trees but not so thick you dont get some sun. The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer We camped at Applewhite Campground in a Fifth Wheel.

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Malibu Creek State Park

    The campground is well laid out with plenty of shade available in most sites throughout the day. Sites aren’t too close to one another, restrooms are modern and clean and people were pretty quiet at night and in the early mornings. Main demographic was families when I camped here.

  • Lizzette M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hollywood RV Park

    Gem near the big city

    I came 3 days ago in my class C. Showers and restrooms were clean and supplied. The RV is cute very Hollywood movies vibes. Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️

  • Tyler G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    Great spot, loud planes

    We loved this spot next to the beach. We got used to the planes, but they are certainly jarring at first.

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 are the best campgrounds in Angeles National Forest?

Horse Flats Campground is highly rated by campers, offering over 20 sites with vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables for $12 per site. It's popular for staying cool during summer months due to its elevation, while still being just an hour's drive from LA. Buckhorn Campground is another excellent option with beautiful surroundings. For those seeking more amenities, consider Peavine Campground, which offers gorgeous tall pine scenery and is dog-friendly with hiking trails nearby. Spring is generally the best time to visit these campgrounds, as August and September can get extremely hot.

Do I need reservations for camping in Angeles National Forest?

Some campgrounds in Angeles National Forest require reservations while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Lake Campground offers a mix of both options, with 5 reservable car camping sites and 3-4 sites available without reservations. For popular campgrounds, especially during peak seasons (spring and early summer), securing reservations is highly recommended. Chilao Campground is another option to consider. Remember that even for non-reservable sites, you'll need to display an Adventure Pass on your vehicle when parking. Check the Angeles National Forest website for current reservation requirements, as they may change seasonally or due to fire restrictions.

Can I camp anywhere in Angeles National Forest or only in designated areas?

Camping in Angeles National Forest is generally restricted to designated campgrounds, but dispersed camping rules vary throughout the year. According to forest regulations, you must stay current with recently published orders on the Angeles National Forest website. Heaton Flats is an example of a dispersed camping area where camping is sometimes permitted for stays of 7 days or less. Oak Flat Campground is an established site option. Fire restrictions are strictly enforced throughout the forest, especially during dry seasons when wildfire risk is high. Always verify current regulations before planning dispersed camping, as rules change frequently based on conditions and conservation needs.

Where can I find lakeside or riverside camping in Angeles National Forest?

For lakeside camping in the Angeles National Forest area, Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake offers approximately 90 dry camping sites with water spigots available in some areas. The lake provides water recreation opportunities and a scenic backdrop. For a smaller lake experience, Lake Campground features sites with tables, fire pits, pit toilets, and potable water spigots. Bear-proof boxes are provided at each site. For riverside options, look along the San Gabriel River, where several campgrounds offer proximity to water. Just be aware that water levels can fluctuate seasonally, and spring typically offers the most pleasant camping conditions with flowing water.

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