Dispersed camping options near South El Monte, California range from mountain trail camps to lakeside RV parks within a 25-mile radius. The region sits at elevations from 400 feet in the valley to over 5,000 feet in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F at lower elevations while mountain campgrounds remain 10-15 degrees cooler. Winter camping is limited to lower elevation sites as mountain facilities typically close from November through March.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Multiple trail camps provide access to seasonal waterfalls within Angeles National Forest. At Millard Trail Campground, campers can take "a 30 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty," according to one visitor. The trail is "nothing but shade provided by the trees foliage and the creek kept our dogs cool," notes another camper.
Mountain biking: The trails around Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground accommodate various skill levels. "Bring your dirt bike and hit some of the trails, it's a definite must!" reports one reviewer. The extensive network includes both technical single-track and wider fire roads suitable for beginners.
Wildlife observation: The San Gabriel Mountains host diverse wildlife. At Coldbrook Campground, campers report seeing "wild life all over the place" with opportunities for "good bird-watching in the morning." Bear encounters are occasionally reported—one camper noted they "had an encounter with a bear both times. Lost our marshmallows."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hoegees Trail Camp Campground receives praise for its seclusion despite proximity to urban areas. Campers describe it as having "15 campsites, each with table, fire ring and wood-burning stove" where "the sites are nicely spaced and there is plenty of shade."
Running creeks: Several mountain campgrounds feature streams that enhance the camping experience. One visitor to Mount Lowe Trail Campground notes "there's a stream nearby the Mount Lowe Summit Trail," while others appreciate that "a lovely creek runs through the campground" at Millard.
Temperature relief: Higher elevation sites provide escape from summer heat. Crystal Lake Rec Area sits at approximately 5,700 feet, offering significantly cooler temperatures. A camper reports: "Stayed here two nights in August, it was nice and cool a good break from the heat."
What you should know
Reservation status: Many sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. Chilao Campground often has overflow options: "Chilao campground had temporarily converted its 'Day use only' areas to overflow camping... they have been setting up these overflow sites every weekend since April."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location. Coldbrook Campground visitors report: "We camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires." Always check current restrictions before arrival.
Car security: Some trailhead parking areas have reported break-ins. A Millard Trail Camp visitor warns: "Make sure to leave your car doors unlocked, and nothing of value inside. You'd rather have someone root through your car and walk away empty handed than have a window broken and items stolen."
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes with rewards: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly trails. At Coldbrook, there's "a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups."
Weekend noise levels: Crystal Lake can get crowded and noisy on weekends. One reviewer advises: "Don't go during week ends cause families bring their kids to camp." Another notes that "summer holiday weekends spent up here will be filled with drunk yelling and loud radios."
Beginner backpacking options: Spruce Grove Trail Campground offers a moderate introduction to backpacking for families. A visitor describes it as a "perfect little backpacking trip" with sites that are "nicely spaced" and "plenty of shade."
Tips from RVers
RV-friendly options near attractions: Anaheim Harbor RV Park provides urban camping within reach of theme parks. Located "within walking to the Disneyland park," it features "full hook ups" and is "walking distance to Disneyland."
Site selection strategy: When booking RV sites, consider specific needs. At Anaheim Harbor, "get a deluxe site if you can. The standard sites are essentially a large parking spot in a paved parking lot. The deluxe feel more like an RV site with a picnic table and grass."
Utility requirements: Check hookup specifications before arrival. Some parks have specific requirements: "You must have a 25ft sewage hose" at certain facilities. Another visitor notes that Anaheim Harbor offers "nice amenities. Clean bathrooms. well functioning rv hook ups."
