Equestrian camping opportunities near Angeles National Forest span several dedicated facilities at elevations between 4,000-6,000 feet. The forest contains over 557 miles of trails suitable for horseback riding, with most equestrian campgrounds operating seasonally due to winter closures from November through April. These campgrounds typically feature corrals or hitching posts rather than traditional stalls for horses.
What to do
Explore historic trails: Access the Pacific Crest Trail directly from Horse Flats Campground for excellent riding routes. "You can explore numerous trails radiating from the campground, including routes to Mount Hillyer and connections to Bandido Group campground," notes a frequent visitor.
Try rock climbing at Horse Flats: The rocky terrain provides good climbing opportunities. "Nice place to stay for climbing - there is mostly bouldering in the area, with some trad stuff. Plenty of sites!" according to Kathleen L.
Hike to historic structures: Follow trail routes from campgrounds into the backcountry. "Hike the Pacific Crest Trail to historic Glenwood Cabin," suggests a camper at Horse Flats. The trail access point is accessible from nearby Bandido campground.
Mountain biking at Malibu Creek: While not in Angeles National Forest, this nearby option offers different terrain. "Between hiking and biking, we were busy for the time we were there," notes a visitor at Malibu Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Seek out seasonal creek access during spring visits. "Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end," recommends a visitor to Bear Canyon Campground.
Small but well-maintained campgrounds: Many forest campgrounds are compact but functional. "The campground is small, quiet and very well-kept," notes a visitor to Tapo Canyon Park.
Night sky viewing: Higher elevation campgrounds provide excellent stargazing conditions. "Sleeping with a completely open tent and viewing the night sky was amazing. Moon lit the entire mountain up," reports Justin B. from Horse Flats.
Variety of terrain: The area offers diverse landscapes from forest to chaparral. "This camp ground has the nicest staff out there. They are always friendly when I go in and they also have treats for your pups," notes a camper at Valencia Travel Village.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Many campgrounds report significant insect activity. "Bring some bug spray if you're bugged by bugs. Other than that there was plenty of space for plenty of campers," advises Josh F. at Horse Flats.
Limited water access: Most Angeles Forest campgrounds lack running water. "Bring lots of water at the pit to put it out, and make sure you do do that completely before you go to sleep. That place would go up faster than you can run," cautions a Bear Canyon visitor.
Campground closures: Check seasonal status before planning trips. "Know before you go - it's closed from November-ish to April-ish - so check the forest website before you head out there," notes Kate O. from Horse Flats.
Vault toilet conditions: Facilities vary across campgrounds. "Lots of flies. Toilets were unbearable with the amount of flies. Rustic is the way to go," reports Justin B. at Horse Flats Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: For family comfort, consider sites with more facilities. "The grounds were beautiful and well maintained, the camp host super friendly and helpful, the bathrooms well positioned and clean, and the sites had shade and everything we needed," reports Jean from Malibu Creek State Park.
Consider day trip options: Plan activities near campgrounds. "Take a scenic chair lift and play disc golf at Mt Waterman, a 10 minute drive away," suggests a visitor to Horse Flats.
Bring extra water for children: Account for higher water usage with kids. "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire," notes William K. at Bear Canyon.
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas. "Large grassy area for picnicking etc. Small park area for the children. And a really amazing looking archery zone that the public can use on Saturdays for a mere $5," reports a visitor to Tapo Canyon Park.
Tips from RVers
RV site availability: Limited designated RV sites in forest campgrounds. "The campsites are designed for RVs. I have camped here in a tent and there is no way to drive a stake into the ground. The sites are fairly large and well spread out for an RV lot," notes a visitor to Tapo Canyon Park.
Proximity to services: Consider campgrounds closer to urban areas. "Super clean campground and each site has grass," reports Jennifer L. from Valencia Travel Village.
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for connectivity issues. "Make sure your reservations are complete online before arriving. The Rangers check the spots multiple times a week," advises April Y. from Tapo Canyon Park.
Water and power connections: Most forest campgrounds lack hookups. "Do not expect cell service. I could only work from this spot by placing my mobile HomeFi router on top of the camper. Our Verizon phones were paper weights," reports a visitor at Musch Trail Camp.
