Campgrounds near El Monte, California range from 4,000-7,000 feet elevation across the San Gabriel Mountains, offering cooler temperatures than the valley floor. Many locations remain accessible year-round while higher-elevation sites typically close from December through March. First-come, first-served camping is common throughout the area with limited advance reservation options.
What to do
Waterfall hikes within minutes: From Millard Trail Campground, access the waterfall trail which is entirely shaded by tree foliage. "Me and my girlfriend decided to go on this trail with our two doggos on a hot 95 degree day and we had such a good time 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 one Millard Trail Campground visitor.
Creek exploration for kids: Crystal Lake Recreation Area features multiple creeks and water features perfect for children. "There are beautiful views of the mountains. Has bathrooms (no flush). Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it. Has a fire pit at each spot. Has picnic table, but very splintery, bring covers. Most sites have tree coverage," reports a Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground camper.
Mountain biking on established trails: Numerous trails throughout the area accommodate bikers of various skill levels. At Bonelli Bluffs, "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more," according to a visitor.
What campers like
Higher elevation for cooler temperatures: Buckhorn Campground sits above 6,000 feet, providing relief from summer heat. "We love to travel and camp but can't always carve out the time for a long drive out of LA. We found this gem, just 1 1/2hrs from LA and you'd never know you were anywhere near the city. It's the perfect getaway, birds singing, and the scenery makes you feel like you're in Tahoe," writes a reviewer at Buckhorn Campground.
Stream-side camping spots: Multiple campgrounds feature creeks flowing through or adjacent to camping areas. At Coldbrook Campground, "We had a campsite next to the creek and it was beautiful to see and listen to. The creek or stream is a good size- its not just a tiny trickle- you can hear the running stream while you sleep," notes a Coldbrook Campground visitor.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer more secluded spots with natural vegetation providing separation. "The campground is situated at a popular trailhead, and there is lots of good hiking nearby. But, this is also a high-traffic area on spring and summer weekends. A lovely creek runs south-west along the edge of the campground," reports a Millard Trail Camp visitor.
What you should know
Weekend crowds are common: Many campgrounds fill completely by Friday afternoon during summer months. "We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up, when we say the sign for overflow camping near the exit of the Chilao campground loop. We wish we had known about this set-up sooner! Chilao campground had temporarily converted its 'Day use only' areas to overflow camping," explains a visitor at Chilao Campground.
Bear activity in certain areas: Food storage requirements vary by campground. "We have camped here a few times. Had an encounter with a bear both times. Lost our marshmellows. 1st come spots had us looking for a good one. Can get full on weekends. Not a bad spot really. Pit toliets," writes a Coldbrook visitor.
Road closures affect access: Always check current conditions before departing. "Drove all the way to the turn in to find the road was closed," reports a disappointed Valley Forge Trail Camp visitor, highlighting the importance of confirming access.
Tips for camping with families
Best first-time backpacking options: Valley Forge Trail Camp offers an accessible introduction to backpacking. "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," writes a Valley Forge Trail Camp visitor.
Car camping with amenities: Look for developed campgrounds with facilities for easier family camping. "This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children," notes a Buckhorn visitor about the well-designed campground.
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant night noise on weekends. "Easy to get to, but fills up VERY fast. Open spaces for large group camping. Fire pits at every campground and easy to walk to hiking trail. Most of the people camping there played loud music all night. Not exactly a get away from the city," cautions a Buckhorn visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV length restrictions: Many mountain campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. "Beautiful campground. A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees. The campground fills quickly for the weekend. It's a first come/first serve so get there early. Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended," advises a Buckhorn visitor.
Full hookup options: Bonelli Bluffs provides complete RV services close to El Monte. "A little pricey but very nice facility. All hookups 30/50 amp. Cable TV. There's a pool. A tent area. Some spaces monumentally better than others. Occasionally they run a special. There's good hiking and bike riding and fishing," reports a Bonelli Bluffs camper.
Different experiences for RVs vs tents: Some sites cater better to one type of camping. "Awesome for RVs but maybe not the best for tent camping. After experiencing both amenities this place is more or less for RVs and 4/10 as for they do have the tent camping on the steep incline and not too many sites," explains a Bonelli Bluffs reviewer.
