Los Angeles National Forest offers several pet friendly camping sites within a 30-minute drive of Burbank. The forest covers over 700,000 acres with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 10,000 feet. Winter temperatures at higher elevations can drop below freezing, while summer temperatures in lower campgrounds often exceed 90°F.
What to do
Hiking with pets: Gould Mesa Trail Campground serves as a gateway to several trails that connect with the larger Angeles National Forest system. "It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings," notes Tony C., who adds that "the trail continues past the campsite so you'll get plenty of hikers throughout the day."
Wildlife viewing: Monte Cristo Campground offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. "A bear was on our stuff the first night. I whistled and it ran away. In the morning today, we seen another, casually walking into the grounds," reports Taka B., who observed the bears weren't aggressive but merely curious.
Beach access: For those willing to drive about 30 miles west, Dockweiler Beach RV Park provides ocean access with pet-friendly policies. "The RV park has a hookup area and a dry camping area... The park is right next to the beach, walk 1 minute and you're there. There's also a bike path that goes for miles both north or south - great for an early workout," according to Ignasi M.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Chilao Campground offers well-spaced sites with natural screening. Melinda M. notes that "the campsites are very spacious and clean (bathrooms were clean too!) i have been here a few times for a last minute weekend away, it's less than an hour from pasadena."
City proximity: Angeles Crest Overlook to LA provides pet-friendly urban camping with city views. Nicole D. explains: "During the week it's more quiet. Close to town so that is a plus. Would recommend to smaller vans or car sleepers. I did not feel unsafe except for the donuts that happened near us."
Creek access: Bear Canyon Campground features a year-round stream popular with dogs and campers. "When the creek is ice-cold, you are just spoiled," says Shannon E., adding that the area has "breathtaking views" though access requires some hiking skill as "trail tends to get iffy at points."
What you should know
Limited facilities: At many pet-friendly sites near Burbank, amenities are minimal. William K. says Bear Canyon has "three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire."
Seasonal concerns: Malibu Creek State Park Campground can become extremely hot during summer months. "I came here during the summer and it was extremely HOT. Typically during the summer season, I like to find campgrounds that have a lot of lush trees so we can be under the canopies and stay cool," warns Chanel C., who recommends visiting "during the Spring or Fall."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. Jordan R. reports about Chilao: "Drove up on Friday morning and had a wonderful weekend. Lots of open spots early Friday but the place was packed Saturday night."
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Keep children away from potentially dangerous wildlife. Joshua P. warns about Monte Cristo: "Be careful because there are black widows everywhere! Especially under the tables of the campsites. Be especially careful if you're traveling with kids, because with the next hospital far away a bite could be deadly."
Day trip options: Mount Lowe Trail Campground provides access to hiking trails with historical features. "Secluded campground with toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," notes Anthony K., making it educational for children.
Water activities: Seasonal creeks provide natural play areas. Shannon E. describes Bear Canyon's creek as "GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring," though parents should supervise children carefully around water.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, location within the park impacts experience quality. Keisha D. 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."
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds offer accessible facilities. Lara O. says about Thousand Trails: "This is one of the best handicap accessible shower and restroom areas we've seen. The larger pool had a roll in area but I do not know if they had a wheelchair that would allow you to actually use it or if you needed your own."
Parking limitations: Larger RVs face challenges at many local campgrounds. Rick L. notes that Malibu Creek State Park is "Nice campground for a big state park. Good for Hiks and bikes. Some interesting movie TV sets in the area. Decent cell coverage. Best for tents, tight for RVs."
