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Camping near Arcadia, CA

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Camping around Arcadia, California primarily centers on Angeles National Forest, with a mix of established campgrounds and backcountry sites. The region includes both drive-in and hike-in options, from the developed Crystal Lake Recreation Area to trail camps like Hoegees and Spruce Grove. Most campgrounds accommodate tent camping, while select locations like Bonelli Bluffs support RVs with hookups. The area's proximity to Los Angeles makes these mountain retreats particularly valuable for quick wilderness escapes, with many sites situated within 15-20 miles of downtown Arcadia.

    Seasonal timing significantly affects camping availability, with many Angeles National Forest campgrounds like Chilao and Buckhorn operating from April through November. Winter closures are common at higher elevations, while lower sites may remain accessible year-round. Fire restrictions frequently impact camping during dry months, particularly in backcountry areas where campfires might be prohibited. Trails to backcountry camps can become challenging after winter storms, with downed trees occasionally blocking paths. According to one visitor, "There can be several hikers around during the day but they usually leave when the sun starts going down, which is a shame cause that's the best time here."

    Hike-in campgrounds receive particularly strong reviews for those seeking solitude near Los Angeles. The trail camps such as Hoegees, Valley Forge, and Spruce Grove require physical effort to reach but reward visitors with peaceful settings and flowing creeks. Many backcountry sites feature picnic tables and fire rings or stoves, though amenities remain minimal. Water availability varies seasonally, with most sites requiring filtration of stream water. One camper noted that Hoegees Trail Camp "feels completely isolated" despite being relatively close to urban areas. Nighttime views of the Los Angeles basin from higher elevation camps like Henninger Flat create memorable experiences, with city lights visible from wilderness campsites - a unique juxtaposition that characterizes camping in this region.

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    Best Campgrounds near Arcadia (185)

    Filters    Tent onlyRVDispersedCabinGlampingPetsEquestrian

      1. Bonelli Bluffs

      4.4(42)14mi from ArcadiaRVs, Tents

      "Our experience at Bonelli Bluffs Campground was mostly positive, but there were a couple of aspects that could be improved."

      "The views around the outskirts of B loop are just lovely, the staff has been so friendly and helpful (we’re RV newbies and had a ton of questions) the store was stocked with all of the little things we"

      from $76 - $88 / night

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      2. Chilao Campground

      4.3(19)13mi from ArcadiaRVs, Tents

      "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"

      from $20 / night

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      3. Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

      4.1(27)17mi from Arcadia185 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      from $20 / night

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      4. Coldbrook Campground

      4.6(18)15mi from ArcadiaRVs, Tents

      "We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."

      "Coldbrooke is a excellent campground that is relatively close to the city. The camp host was super helpful in explaining the fire restrictions and overall questions."

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      5. Buckhorn Campground

      4.8(20)17mi from ArcadiaRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $20 / night

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      6. Millard Trail Campground

      3.7(9)9mi from ArcadiaTents, Cabins, Glamping

      "When you can’t do a 2h hike before setting camp, but you also don’t want to camp close to your car, Millard campground is perfect. The parking lot is just behind the corner out of view."

      "Cool drive to get to the campground. You drive up and down these hilly roads up the mountain to get there. Once there, there's a parking lot that fits about 20 cars."

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      7. Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground

      4.5(12)13mi from ArcadiaRVs, Tents

      "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!"

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      8. Spruce Grove Trail Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

      4.3(6)6mi from ArcadiaTents

      "Close to the camp that's up there"

      "Beyond the falls, the trail takes on a greater feeling of wilderness immersion."

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      9. Hoegees Trail Camp Campground

      4.6(5)5mi from ArcadiaTents

      "Hoegee’s is 2 miles hike from Chantry Flats by way of the Lower Winter Creek Trail. The site is named for Hoegee’s resort which stood just upstream."

      "If you take the Upper Winter Creek Trail it's an easier hike but not as pretty as the Lower one. Campsite is very nice with enough sites for about 20 campers with a privy but no running water."

      10. Valley Forge Trail Camp hike in. no drive

      4.2(6)8mi from ArcadiaTents

      "Trail camp is in the canyon so it’s an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon."

      "Forage your way through the Valley Forge Trail, for an intimate night in the wilderness at one of its remote camps."

      from $5 / night

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    Recent Camping Photos near Arcadia, CA

    296 Photos of 185 Arcadia Campgrounds

    Recent Reviews near Arcadia, CA

    1096 Reviews of 185 Arcadia Campgrounds

    • KThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 29, 2026

      Chilao Campground

      Gorgeous Site but Noisy Neighbors

      I stayed at Little Pines. This spot has some beautiful sites. Some are semi-secluded with stunning views. Some have a lot of shade, some have little. Silver Moccasin Trail is on-site and a great hike. Notorious for bears but I didn’t see any.

      I camped with a bear canister and bear country precaution anyway. A few sets of vault toilets and dumpsters so no site is too far from one. But no sinks. There is running water here but it’s non-potable.

      It’s a beautiful spot but I had a group of about 10-15 people in diesel trucks roll in at 10pm on a Friday and blare Banda music for 3 days. From about 8am-10:30pm-ish. Unrelenting. Even with earplugs I could feel the bass of the tubas. Ruined the entire trip. So be aware that like any campground, loud jerks can spoil it for everyone.

      I noticed a lot of people coming in until about 10pm on Friday and there were still spots. This wasn’t a holiday weekend but it was a pretty weekend in June. I got there at 6pm and got a great spot.

      The Manzanita area is very pretty but sites are smaller and it’s more of an Oak Woodland with Manzanita and lots of boulders. Far fewer pines and cedars so not a lot of shade. In the fall this might be a nice option but in summer it may be a little hot.

      Little Pines is pretty accessible for wheelchairs. The road has some pot holes but it’s paved and the grade isn’t terrible. Several spots would be very accessible to anyone with mobility devices or wheelchairs as you can park and get right to the campsite beside the car, on level ground. Restrooms are ADA-accessible.

      WARNING: Watch out for the purple plant everywhere! Behaves like poison oak. Keep pets (and yourself) away. Included pics.

    • Kaitlin S.
      Jun. 25, 2026

      Chilao Campground

      Manzanita

      First stayed around 25-30. Maybe flies season? Crazy amount of bugs. Moved to down the hill much better. Clean bathroom. Quiet at night.

    • jThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 23, 2026

      Hollywood RV Park

      Great place to stay

      Very relaxing in Hollywood themed RV Park. Owner is very helpful and will help you park your RV and setup. Dog park and full hookups. $90 per night.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 22, 2026

      Dockweiler Beach RV Park

      Unreachable, unfriendly and uncompliant personell

      Called them around 5 times over several times on different days. They only allow a minimum of 2 nights stay. They had no spaces available 2 nights in a row. But there were multiple spots avaible on our nights. So i told them i didnt mind moving the RV, but they didnt want to cooperate on that and rather leave the spots open.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 20, 2026

      Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

      Great spot for a quick overnighter

      The entrance is opposite of lone pine canyon rd . At night the train goes by . We saw a dead drop pickup in the morning. We woke to a car and motorcycle parked nearby- a lady and heavily tattooed guy were out walking around. They dug out 3 black bags from some brush and took off. So that was exciting.

    • KThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 20, 2026

      Antfarm LA

      Never got response to reservation

      I never had the chance to stay at this site. We’re so disappointed as it seems amazing. My reservation request expired and I never heard from them.

      The reviews in Hipcamp are all so positive but none are newer than Aug 2025. So I wonder if they’re just not booking anymore. Seems strange based on the effusive praise of the host. Hope they’re ok.

      Wanted to leave this review so others are aware that they should have a plan B if they attempt to book this site.

    • Grant M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 20, 2026

      Dockweiler Beach RV Park

      Incredible location, but is what it is.

      When you book a beachfront site in the flight path of LAX, you know there’s some things, and they do indeed have those things, but on the beach and close to the action. Great trail system, easier access in and out than I’d hoped, price less insane than I feared. Loud, crowded, and urban.

    • A
      Jun. 18, 2026

      Hollywood RV Park

      Surprising camping

      The host is so kind, helped us to park our RV, showed us all around. Beautiful art pieces and history in this camp.

    • PThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 13, 2026

      Lake Elsinore Marina & RV Resort (West Marina)

      I am living here mo-to-mo in

      Great if you are into water sports. Park has its entire marina and boat ramp with plenty of parking. Terrific restaurant on the water great sunsets and fabulous barbecue meats. Jack’s Bbq on Lakeside Drive

    Guide to Arcadia

    The Angeles National Forest encompasses numerous camping options within 30 minutes of Arcadia, California. Campgrounds like Chilao, Crystal Lake Recreation Area, and Coldbrook provide both tent and RV accommodations with varying levels of amenities. Several hike-in trail camps including Hoegees, Mount Lowe, and Millard offer primitive tent camping for those seeking a more secluded experience. The San Gabriel Mountains backdrop creates a mountainous forest setting that contrasts with the nearby urban environment.

    Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping availability in this region, with most established campgrounds operating from April through November. Angeles National Forest campgrounds require Adventure Passes for parking at developed recreation sites, while trail camps are typically free but operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Road conditions to destinations like Crystal Lake can be challenging, particularly during winter months when snow may affect higher elevations. Water sources are inconsistent across sites, making proper preparation essential. A camper noted, "There are bears in the area so hang your food and keep your campsite clean. Bring your own toilet paper."

    Many visitors highlight the striking views as a primary attraction when camping in this region. The proximity to Los Angeles provides unique nighttime panoramas from elevated sites like Henninger Flat. Trail camps generally feature basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and occasionally pit toilets, though most require packing out all trash. Several campgrounds follow creek beds, offering natural water sources that require treatment before consumption. According to one visitor who stayed at Spruce Grove, "The sites are nicely spaced and there is plenty of shade. Perfect little backpacking trip." The secluded nature of many trail camps provides a surprising wilderness experience despite their proximity to urban areas, though several locations remain temporarily closed due to past fire damage.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What amenities are available at Arcadia campsites?

    Campsites near Arcadia offer varied amenities based on location and type. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park provides grassy sites beneath coastal live oak trees, with basic facilities. Bonelli Bluffs offers family-friendly RV camping, though reviewers note it lacks playgrounds. Many area campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Little Jimmy Trail Campground features first-come, first-served sites with fire rings and vault toilets. Some locations offer shower facilities, while others have potable water available. Amenities typically vary between developed campgrounds and more primitive backcountry sites.

    Where can I find camping in Arcadia?

    Arcadia offers several nearby camping options in the surrounding areas. O'Neill Regional Park is tucked back in a canyon and provides clean sites perfect for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. For a more secluded experience, Millard Trail Campground is just a short drive from Pasadena, offering rustic sites near excellent hiking trails. Other options include Chilao Campground and Coldbrook Campground in the Angeles National Forest, both offering drive-in access with basic amenities like water and toilets. These campgrounds provide convenient options for those looking to camp near the Arcadia area.

    How much does camping in Arcadia cost?

    Camping costs near Arcadia vary by location and amenities. Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground offers beachfront sites with water and electric hookups, typically ranging from $50-75 per night. Dockweiler Beach RV Park provides premium oceanfront RV camping at higher rates, reflecting its prime location. For more budget-friendly options, primitive sites at Lake Campground and other Angeles National Forest locations generally run $12-25 per night. Some backcountry campgrounds like Valley Forge Trail Camp may offer sites at minimal cost or even free. Expect to pay more for sites with hookups, shower access, and proximity to attractions.

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