Tent camping options near Diamond Bar, California exist primarily in the San Gabriel Mountains, which rise to elevations between 5,000-10,000 feet. These mountains create a natural barrier between the Los Angeles Basin and the Mojave Desert, offering cooler temperatures than the surrounding valleys. Most backcountry campsites require hiking distances of 2-8 miles from trailheads, with water availability dependent on seasonal rainfall patterns and snowmelt.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: From Millard Trail Camp, take the half-mile trail to Millard Falls. "It was a bit busy during the day. They close the gate at 10 pm I believe, so the evening was nice and quiet," notes a Millard Trail Campground visitor who enjoyed the accessibility of the water feature.
Summit nearby peaks: Multiple peaks are accessible from Little Jimmy Trail Camp. "Located above Crystal Lake you'll find Little Jimmy, it's a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway... Campers turned hikers have easy access to hop on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail which runs through the camp," explains a Little Jimmy Trail Campground reviewer.
Creek exploration: Many backcountry sites offer creek access when seasonal conditions permit. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green oasis of a meadow. I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer," reports a camper about their experience.
What campers like
Proximity to trailheads: Manker Campground positions visitors for early morning hiking starts. "Clean and near trails. I went on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. There were only 4-6 other campers each night so it was very quiet," reports a visitor to Manker Campground.
Unique camp amenities: Some sites feature historical or unusual cooking equipment. At Little Jimmy, campers appreciate the "fire rings, vault toilets (which are currently not in service), and vintage backcountry ovens."
Wilderness immersion: The best tent camping near Diamond Bar, California offers a sense of remoteness despite relative proximity to urban areas. A camper at Mount Lowe Trail Campground noted: "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own heartbeats laying there at night. We went in May this year so not much people around."
What you should know
Water filtration required: Most sites require carrying or filtering water. At Glenn Trail Camp, one camper advised: "No running water though, unless you count the creek that's no more than 50 yards away from the sites. All in all a great place to camp. Just make sure to bring enough water or a way to purify the creek."
Bear presence: Wildlife encounters include bears at several campgrounds. "In the summertime, bears can be common visitors so make sure and secure your food in provided bear boxes or bring your own bear canisters," warns a Glenn Trail Camp Campground visitor.
Weather considerations: Temperature variations can be significant. The Angeles National Forest sees snow at higher elevations in winter, while summer temperatures can exceed 90°F. At Millard Trail Camp, shade is available throughout the campground, with one visitor noting it has "few bugs around, so no need to hose yourself down with repellent."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some trail camps are ideal for first backpacking trips. "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," explains a Valley Forge Trail Camp visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer wildlife viewing potential. At Hoegees Trail Camp, "Wildlife encounters are common, with hikers reporting deer, rabbits, and occasional larger mammals."
Limited facilities: Understand the primitive nature of these sites. "This is a hike in only campground that is secluded and a little spare. It has no running water but it does have facilities and tables (first come, first serve)," a Mount Lowe camper explains.
Tips from RVers
No RV access: The backcountry tent camping locations near Diamond Bar prohibit RVs entirely. Visitors seeking RV camping should consider coastal options. "Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available," notes a visitor to Doheny State Beach Campground, which is approximately 30 miles southwest of Diamond Bar.
Nearest hookup options: RVs requiring hookups must travel considerable distances from Diamond Bar to find suitable campgrounds. Doheny State Beach offers proximity to urban amenities with "good day-use facilities with toy rentals (bikes, tandems, surreys, etc.), beach volleyball and many picnic tables. Walking distance to town with coffee shops, and other shops."
Parking limitations: For those combining tent camping with vehicle access, many trailheads have parking restrictions. At Little Jimmy Trail Campground, "There is no fee to camp here other than an Adventure pass for your parking."
