Tent camping near Burbank offers access to multiple trail campgrounds in the Angeles National Forest where elevations range from 1,500 to 3,000 feet above sea level. These hike-in sites experience a Mediterranean climate pattern with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. Water availability varies dramatically by season, with spring offering the strongest creek flows and summer bringing increased fire restrictions.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 30-minute trek from Millard Trail Campground to see seasonal falls. "The waterfall trail is nothing but shade provided by the trees foliage and the creek kept our dogs cool as they would jump in and out of the small pools," notes Chris O., who visited during hot weather.
Mountain biking: Multiple trail options near Gould Mesa Trail Campground with moderate difficulty levels. "There were a dozen or so mountain bikers and about the same amount of hikers runners that venture by the campground throughout the day," reports Jamie G., who camped overnight.
Summit exploration: Half-day hike to Mount Lowe summit from camp. "There's a stream nearby the Mount Lowe Summit Trail, also. Plenty of great sites to choose from," according to Anthony K., who found the hike worthwhile despite the effort.
What campers like
Privacy after dark: Gates close at most Angeles National Forest campgrounds around 8-10pm. "They close the gate at 10 pm I believe, so the evening was nice and quiet," writes Jeff B. about his overnight bikepacking experience at Millard Trail Camp.
Creek access for water filtering: Seasonal streams run through most campsites. At Bear Canyon Campground, William K. found "lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk bring increased animal activity. Shannon E. notes that "animals love toilet paper, so make sure your cat holes are 6 inches deep because there are no toilets" at Bear Canyon Campground, indicating wildlife is prevalent.
What you should know
Car break-ins occur: Parking areas have reported theft issues. "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," warns Mathew H. about Millard Trail Camp.
Weekend crowds vs. weekday solitude: Trails experience heavy day use from city residents. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, Tom P. observed "quite a few hikers pass through here on the weekend" while noting the campground itself remains relatively secluded.
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Check current regulations before planning meals. "Check on camp fires permitted (last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED)," cautions Tom P. regarding Mount Lowe, highlighting the importance of verifying current rules.
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes for first-timers: Choose camps closer to trailheads for easier access with children. Kelly B. found that Valley Forge Trail Camp made "a 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."
Wildlife safety education: Store all food properly in provided bear boxes. "It's in Bear country so they provide food storage for each campsite also trash containers too," notes a reviewer at Millard Trail Camp, making this an opportunity to teach children about wildlife safety.
Plan water filtration activities: Involve older children in water collection and filtration. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, one camper found that "if your running low of your water supply, visit the nearby stream, just always remember to treat before you taste."
Tips from RVers
RV camping limitations: Most tent camping sites near Burbank prohibit vehicle access. The Andrei K. experience at Mount Lowe highlights this limitation: "Once past that gate, you'll soon hit another, this one closed to all motorized vehicles. GPS says another 5.5 miles and 33 minutes (driving!) time to the campsite."
Parking size restrictions: Limited parking at trailheads requires early arrival. At Musch Trail Camp, Erik M. notes: "If you are parking your vehicle overnight in the parking lot please leave a note on your dashboard so that the Rangers are aware that you are camping at Musch Camp."
Street parking considerations: Some trail access points require parking on residential streets with permit requirements. For Hoegees Trail Camp, one camper advises: "Parking fills up within an hour on weekends so get there as soon as the parking lot opens at 6am."
