3 campgrounds with availability next weekend
The Angeles National Forest surrounding Azusa, California offers numerous primitive tent camping options, many accessible only by hiking trails. Tent campers can choose from established walk-in sites like Spruce Grove Trail Camp, Hoegees Trail Camp, and Valley Forge Trail Camp, all located within a short drive from Azusa. Little Jimmy Trail Campground, situated along the Pacific Crest Trail, provides tent-only sites with picnic tables and fire rings at higher elevations.
Most tent campgrounds in the area require hikers to pack in all supplies, as amenities are minimal. Sites typically feature dirt or forest duff surfaces with basic fire rings and picnic tables, though fire restrictions are common during dry seasons. Bear activity necessitates proper food storage, with some sites providing bear boxes. Vault toilets are available at several locations including Glenn Trail Camp and Valley Forge, but running water is scarce. Campers should bring water treatment supplies to utilize nearby creeks. Adventure Passes are required for parking at most trailheads leading to these primitive tent setups.
The secluded nature of these hike-in tent sites offers a genuine wilderness experience despite proximity to urban areas. Glenn Trail Camp provides an excellent introduction to bikepacking or backpacking, with a 6.5-mile relatively flat access trail following a river. Higher elevation sites like Little Jimmy offer cooler temperatures and scenic views, making them popular summer destinations. According to one visitor, "Little Jimmy is a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway with around 7 first-come, first-served sites with fire rings and vintage backcountry ovens." Many tent campers use these sites as starting points for longer backpacking trips, with easy access to extensive trail networks including segments of the Pacific Crest Trail.
"This is a backpackers campground. First come first serve, picnic tables and fire rings included. I think there is only about 8-10 sites. Nice creek flows though the campground."
"This is a hike in campground that has stoves and a creek running through. The sites are nicely spaced and there is plenty of shade. Perfect little backpacking trip."
"You can only access this campground by backpacking in. There's about 12 campsites with picnic benches and fire rings. There's a creek that runs through. it's beautiful and feels completely isolated."
"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."
"Access to this campground is so easy, whether it's by car or by bike."
"This hike-in/bike-in campground is located 6 1/2 miles behind a locked gate. The small campground is equipped with stream for water (must be treated), and vault potties."
from $5 / night
"Took some friends for their first ever backpacking trip, great intro to the “experience.” Trail camp is in the canyon so it’s an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon."
"Picnic tables and fire rings made food preparing especially easy. It has so much charm!"
from $5 / night
"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."
"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."
"Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!"
"Tucked away at the top of a precarious winding mountain road. It is very basic, simple and beautiful."
from $20 / night
"No water, fountain is capped now"
"There's no water right now but that could change after first rain or snow. Stayed here last week & it's still great."
"This campsite is located in California and is one of my favorites."
"Hike in , via the PCT, an easy couple miles , to little jimmy campground. or hike up Little Jimmy road, which is a wider dirt road ( no vehicles) Lots of sites ( I’ve never seen more than a couple occupied"
"Perfect stopping point for backpacking. Went here in May and we were the only 2 here. Plenty of water flowing and tree cover from the sun."
"No water facet but there is a toilet. I have woke in the morning to deer on several occasions. I will come back here."
"They had fire pits and public toilets and food storage for bears."
"This is a nice hike-in campground with about ten sites available and a privy. Lots of hikers up here on the weekend ( and weekdays too)."
ScoutBeautiful spot on seal Beach naval weapons command base. A bit pricey, but has showers and free laundry facilities seems to be on the flight path to John Wayne Airport beautiful grounds must have a DBIDS card to get in and out of base if not military.
ScoutSite is clean, many activities on weekends They also add 1000lb or catfish and trout weekly depending on season. Members were friendly. Downside is wifi when the campsite is 75+ full and only about a dozen paved spots. Major are gravel and dirt.
TravelerNice spot with great hiking. Limited facilities. No hookups. $1 for 2 minute shower (tokens).
TravelerI went there to see, before making a reservation. I found the trailer park—maybe 100 old mobile homes—but I never found an RV park. I didn’t see anything to see. The “pool” was empty. The office was locked, and it wasn’t lunch. Just kinda not happening. I left a message to call me with the answering service, but I never got a call back.
TravelerI was lucky to find this place. It’s well run, comfortable, friendly. Nice spots.
ScoutI found the campground to be very friendly kid friendly and pet friendly. The spots were spacious and some had privacy others were out in the open. The rangers were very friendly and helpful, they helped me set up my tent when they saw I was having trouble. There are trails to explore. A great last minute getaway from the city and not to far, the bathroom was clean and modern with hot showers and toilets.
TravelerVery windy and need high clearance vehicles
TravelerYou definitely need high clearance vehicles or you will not make it here
Travelervery pretty sight the mountain air is incredible. the staff is very helpful and friendly. at night the drunks go crazy and the bears steal their food.
Trail camps in the Angeles National Forest provide backcountry tent camping options near Azusa. These primitive sites range from 2 to 6.5 miles from trailheads, with elevations from 2,500 to 7,000 feet. Most sites require an Adventure Pass for parking at trailheads, and many lack running water, requiring hikers to filter water from nearby streams.
Mountain biking on scenic routes: The road to Glenn Trail Camp Campground is designated as a National Scenic Bikeway. "This hike-in/bike-in campground is located 6 1/2 miles behind a locked gate. The small campground is equipped with stream for water (must be treated), and vault potties," notes David F.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings offer the best chances to spot deer and smaller animals. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, campers report regular wildlife encounters. One camper shares, "Good backpacking camping spot. There is usually a stream for filtering water. Plenty of sites for camping. Usually quiet when not too many people around."
Summit hiking from campsites: Several trail camps serve as bases for peak ascents. From Mount Lowe Trail Campground, hikers can access multiple peaks. Anthony K. reports, "Plenty of great sites to choose from. There's a stream nearby the Mount Lowe Summit Trail, also."
Secluded sites away from crowds: Unlike developed campgrounds, trail camps offer genuine isolation. At Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, Morgan F. found that "You can only access this campground by backpacking in. There's about 12 campsites with picnic benches and fire rings. There's a creek that runs through. it's beautiful and feels completely isolated."
Year-round water sources: Several campsites feature reliable streams even during dry months. At Little Jimmy Trail Campground, Anthony K. reports, "a short walk from little Jimmy spring, where you can get water to filter."
Easy introduction to backpacking: For beginners, Glenn Trail Camp provides an accessible experience. Kevin L. explains, "This campground is so perfect for bikepacking novices or those looking to do a gear check because it's an honest 6.5 miles of a relatively flat paved road."
Fire restrictions vary by season: Current fire regulations must be checked before each trip. According to Tom P. at Millard Trail Campground, "Camp fire pits but check for permits. There is a camp host so things are well managed and clean."
Trail difficulty levels differ significantly: Some trails are beginner-friendly while others require experience. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, one reviewer warns, "Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon."
Insect populations peak in summer months: Bugs can be problematic during warmer seasons. Kevin L. notes about Glenn Trail Camp, "While bugs are an inevitable aspect of being outdoors, the biting gnats and/or mosquitos are very formidable in the summer."
Choose trails with gradual elevation gains: For kids, select camps with easier access trails. "If you take the Upper Winter Creek Trail it's an easier hike but not as pretty as the Lower one," advises Tom P. about Hoegees Trail Camp. "Campsite is very nice with enough sites for about 20 campers with a privy but no running water."
Sites with educational opportunities: Some camps offer historical features kids enjoy exploring. Anthony K. mentions that Mount Lowe "has toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site."
Secure food properly from wildlife: Spruce Grove Trail Campground requires proper food storage due to wildlife. "There's no running water but the creek is usually running so come prepared with your own water and something to treat the creek water with," notes Tom P. "Very much like Hoegees campground. Good for families and Scouts."
Pack weight considerations: For the best tent camping near Azusa, California, lightweight gear is essential. According to Brittany N., Spruce Grove is "a backpackers campground. First come first serve, picnic tables and fire rings included. I think there is only about 8-10 sites."
Emergency preparedness: Cell service is unavailable at most sites. David F. notes about Hoegees, "There is an emergency call box and cell phones do not work."
Water treatment required: All campers must bring filtration systems. At West Fork Trail Campground, a reviewer recommends, "You do have to hike out your own water or filter from the stream."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is camping allowed along the Azusa River?
Oakwilde Trail Campground is situated near the river, offering primitive camping with minimal facilities. While the site has experienced some flood damage in recent years, it remains a beautiful riverside location. Another option is Millard Trail Campground, which features shaded sites with benches and bear boxes. Remember that camping is only permitted in designated campgrounds in the Angeles National Forest, not randomly along the river. Always check current forest regulations and fire restrictions before planning your trip.
Where can I find tent camping sites in Azusa Canyon?
Azusa Canyon offers several excellent tent camping options. Glenn Trail Camp Campground is easily accessible via Highway 39 from Azusa and is popular with hikers and bikepackers. For those seeking a more traditional campground experience, Angeles National Forest Big Rock Campground is located in the canyon with sites near a seasonal creek. Additional options include Millard Trail Campground, which requires a short hike to reach the campsites, and Little Jimmy Trail Campground, located just off Angeles Crest Highway above Crystal Lake.
What are the best times of year for tent camping in Azusa?
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant camping weather in Azusa. Spring (March-May) brings moderate temperatures, flowing creeks after winter rains, and wildflowers. Fall (September-November) features warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds. Summer can be extremely hot with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F, especially at lower elevations. Little Jimmy Trail Campground at higher elevation provides a cooler summer option. Winter camping is possible but prepare for cold nights and possible snow at higher elevations. Hoegees Trail Camp Campground offers good protection in more challenging weather.
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