Angeles National Forest sits at elevations between 1,200 and 10,064 feet with diverse ecosystems ranging from chaparral to pine forests. Temperatures vary dramatically by season and elevation, with summer highs reaching 95°F at lower elevations while higher campgrounds stay 15-20 degrees cooler. Most campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis with limited or no cell service throughout the forest.
What to do
Hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail: Access the famous PCT near Horse Flats Campground, where many sites back up to trail access points. "There is hiking trails right out of the campground. A stream runs through the campground in the spring," notes Lauralyn J., who also mentions that smaller RVs under 24 feet can navigate the access roads.
Bouldering adventures: The Angeles National Forest offers numerous rock climbing opportunities, especially at Horse Flats. "Nice place to stay for climbing - there is mostly bouldering in the area, with some trad stuff. Plenty of sites!" says Kathleen L. The campground provides easy access to multiple climbing routes a short hike from the campsites.
Waterfall hiking: Several seasonal waterfalls can be accessed from Monte Cristo Campground. "It's Close to Hidden Springs and Switzer falls, surrounding area is very beautiful," writes Cierra M., who visited in April 2021. Water flow is strongest in winter and spring, with many falls drying up completely by late summer.
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevation provides spectacular panoramas at many campsites. "Little pine campground makes you feel like your on top of the world," says Jessica P. about Little Pine Campground. "This place is about 1 hour from Glendale. It is easy to get here, does get crowded as well."
Star gazing: Clear mountain air and distance from city lights make for excellent night sky viewing. "Sleeping with a completely open tent and viewing the night sky was amazing. Moon lit the entire mountain up," writes Justin B. about his experience at Horse Flats, though he warns that flies around the vault toilets can be problematic.
Cooler summer temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from urban heat. "We come to this campground throughout the year, and its one of our favorite spots for summer camping when we're short on time. It's an hours drive from LA and because the campground is at elevation it stays cooler during the hot months," explains Les R. about Horse Flats.
What you should know
Limited water access: Many campgrounds have no potable water. "Bring your own water. There is NO service here or really anywhere on the 2," advises Cierra M. about Monte Cristo. The campground is entirely self-service with a $12 cash deposit box at the entrance.
Weather fluctuations: Even in summer, nights can get cold at elevation. Jordan R. notes about Chilao Campground: "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." Temperature drops of 25+ degrees from day to night are common.
Weekend crowding: Most accessible campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "Get there early to get a good spot. It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2," recommends Meghan W. about Buckhorn Campground, adding that it's "a good first car camping spot for families with young children."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Several campgrounds cater well to first-time campers. "Great for families. Great hiking trail that was very well maintained," notes Vickie C. about Buckhorn Campground, emphasizing its quietness after 10 pm and spacious sites.
Pet-friendly considerations: While most Angeles National Forest campgrounds allow pets, they must remain leashed. Kenia G. says that Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground "is the perfect spot for beginner outdoor enthusiasts" and "great for family" camping with pets, though she recommends bringing your own water despite campground spigots.
Wildlife awareness: Bears and other wildlife are present throughout the forest. "A bear was on our stuff the first night. I whistled and it ran away. In the morning today, we seen another, casually walking into the grounds," reports Taka B. at Monte Cristo. Food storage containers are essential when camping with pets in these areas.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most forest campgrounds have size restrictions for RVs. "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended," warns Lauralyn J. about Buckhorn. Road conditions on Angeles Crest Highway and connecting roads can be challenging for larger rigs.
Alternative RV options: For full hookups, consider staying at LA RV Resort at Acton Camp near the forest boundary. "The RV sites are pretty close together but the full hookups makes it really nice. Will stay here again and they are very pet friendly which was nice," shares Gadgetboy J., though other reviewers mention train noise as a drawback.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is almost non-existent within the forest. "No WIFI and reception for Verizon was hit or miss," mentions Keisha D. about staying at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon. Download offline maps and campground information before heading to higher elevation sites.
