Tent camping near Baldwin Park, California offers wilderness experiences with minimal hiking distances. The Angeles National Forest contains multiple trail camps at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet that experience temperature swings from below freezing in winter to over 90°F in summer. Most sites sit along seasonal creeks or streams that flow strongest from February through June.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 30-minute hike from Millard Trail Campground leads to a seasonal waterfall. "There's a creek that runs through the campground which makes it very pretty. About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty. But there are several trails to take for hiking and biking and I saw lots of people doing that." - jonnysunami
Mountain biking: National Scenic Bikeway access from Glenn Trail Camp Campground. "For biking enthusiasts, the road to the campground is designated as a National Scenic Bikeway, so if you want to knock one off the list, here it is. Don't forget to strap a pole to your pack if you want to catch some dinner." - David F.
Multi-day loop opportunities: Connect trail camps for longer backpacking routes. "The Big Santa Anita Canyon Loop on Mount Wilson offers dog friendly free camping immersed in thick mountain woods with babbling creeks and numerous waterfalls. The trail is dotted with one of a kind cabins but the trail camps are as primitive as it gets." - Mandy E.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many sites feature direct stream access. "There's a creek that runs through. It's beautiful and feels completely isolated," says Morgan F. about Hoegees Trail Camp Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Bears, deer, and smaller animals frequent these forest areas. "Lots of wildlife all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer," notes tom P. about Millard Trail Camp.
Solitude on weekdays: Sites typically have fewer visitors Monday through Thursday. "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own hearbeats laying there at night. We went in May this year so not much people around," shares Stacy C. about Mount Lowe Trail Campground.
What you should know
Water sources unreliable: Filter or treat all stream water. "There is no running water but the creek is usually running so come prepared with your own water and something to treat the creek water with," explains tom P. about Spruce Grove Trail Campground.
Fire permit requirements: Fire restrictions change seasonally, sometimes banning all flames. "A great backpacking trip with plenty of sites for tents. Check with rangers about campfires because sometimes they are not allowed depending on the season," notes a camper.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "Pro tips: There are bears in the area so hang your food and keep your campsite clean. Bring your own toilet paper. Parking fills up within an hour on weekends so get there as soon as the parking lot opens at 6am." - Mandy E.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Short hikes make these camps accessible for children. "I have been wanting to take my girlfriend backpacming for quite some time but wanted an easy trail to start her off with, and this was it an easy paved 6 1/2 miles in to camp all the way along a creek," says Andrew G. about Glenn Trail Camp.
Stream exploration: Kids enjoy shallow water features during spring months. "The stream lining the road to the campsite is very accessible, and is perfect as a water source, or washing camp dishes," explains Kevin L.
First-time backpacking: Valley Forge Trail Camp offers good introduction to wilderness camping. "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." - Kelly B.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only wilderness: No RV access exists at any wilderness camps near Baldwin Park. Vehicles must remain at trailheads or designated parking areas.
Parking limitations: Many trailheads require Adventure Pass permits for overnight parking. "Lots of parking at the bridge but make sure you have an adventure pass. It's a good hike with a slight uphill grade but very beautiful if the stream is running," advises tom P. about Bear Canyon Campground.
Car security concerns: Some trailhead parking areas experience break-ins. "WARNING: 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." - Mathew H.
