Angeles National Forest camping options range from basic sites to full-service RV parks across elevations from 1,200 to 8,000 feet. Winter temperatures drop below freezing at higher elevations while summer brings 90°F+ days at lower elevations. Cell service varies dramatically by location, with mountain terrain creating signal dead zones even near urban areas.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Bonita Ranch Campground offers easy access to waterfall trails. "Good place to see, close to the Lytle creek and great hiking to reach the Bonita Falls," notes one camper. The creek behind the campground provides cooling relief during hot summer months.
Waterfront activities: Bonelli Bluffs offers multiple water activities within walking distance. "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking," according to one visitor. The large regional park includes extensive shoreline access.
Urban exploration: Hollywood RV Park provides a convenient base for Los Angeles sightseeing. "This is one of the best places to stay with an RV to visit LA, since driving and parking an RV in LA can be challenging and parking an RV in west LA is not allowed," explains one camper. The location offers rideshare access to most major attractions.
What campers like
Campground ambiance: Malibu Beach RV Park impresses visitors with its coastal setting. "There's not a bad spot to camp here. Even the ones listed as 'no view' have a view! Very friendly and helpful staff. I like that they keep you informed with texts," writes one camper. The park sits on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Clean facilities: Bonelli Bluffs maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking and full hookups," notes one visitor. The park enforces quiet hours consistently.
Seasonal activities: Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon offers varying experiences throughout the year. "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign. Park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019," reports one visitor. The property schedules more family activities during summer and holiday weekends.
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple reviewers mention train disruptions at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon. "It's very very close to railroad tracks and at night the loud train kept waking us up," warns one camper. Another notes, "There was however a train that ran around 3:30am every morning that was a disturbance."
Space limitations: Campsite sizing varies significantly between parks. Californian RV Resort receives mixed reviews about site dimensions. "Small spots, but level, clean, cement, and full hook up," writes one visitor. Another describes the location as "Gated park high on a hill; like driving the hills of SF with a trailer."
Connectivity challenges: WiFi and cell service fluctuate by campground and specific location within parks. "I was close to the office and was never able to connect," notes one Californian RV Resort camper. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, reviewers specify, "No WIFI and reception for Verizon was hit or miss."
Reservation policies: Several campgrounds operate without advance booking systems. Antelope Valley Fairgrounds functions solely as drive-up. "Drive-up only (no reservations)," confirms one visitor. Availability becomes particularly limited during summer months and holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: Several campgrounds offer wheelchair-friendly facilities. "This is one of the best handicap accessible shower and restroom areas we've seen. The larger pool had a roll in area," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon. The review adds, "All of the public areas seem to be pretty compact and easy to use my electric chair on."
Pool availability: Castaic Lake RV Park offers water recreation options. "We had a great time. Although it was really hot the pool was nice and refreshing and clean," shares one visitor. Pool hours typically run 9am-7pm during summer months.
Site selection: Location within a campground significantly impacts experience. One Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon camper explains, "This trip we stayed down near the welcome center instead of Lot N and the experience didn't even seem like the same RV Park. No loud music, no barking dog, less dust, and dirt."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: RV sites near Angeles National Forest often offer sanitary services even for non-guests. Spaceport RV Park accommodates non-staying visitors. "It's my understanding they let you dump for $5.00 and fill your freshwater tank for $2.00 even if you don't stay here," reports one RVer.
Navigation challenges: Large RVs face access limitations at certain campgrounds. Rafael's RV Park receives mixed reviews on maneuverability. "Rafael is very kind and helpful. The place is well equipped," notes one visitor. The tight urban setting requires careful navigation for larger rigs.
Weather considerations: Temperature swings affect RV camping comfort substantially. "It is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019. Great place to stay if you are a TT member road to resort is windy and narrow but easily manageable with larger RVs," explains one Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon visitor. Higher elevation campgrounds experience dramatic cooling after sunset.
