Tent camping near El Monte, California offers rustic wilderness experiences within the Angeles National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 5,700 feet. Trail camps provide varying degrees of seclusion despite their proximity to urban areas, with most requiring adventure passes for parking. During summer months, daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F while dropping to the 50s at night.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Millard Falls is accessible via a half-mile hike that's suitable for all skill levels. A camper noted, "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."
Mountain biking: Glenn Trail Camp Campground offers excellent biking access along a national scenic bikeway. "Access to this campground is so easy, whether it's by car or by bike. I have bikepacked here a couple times now; once biking up Highway 39 from Azusa, and once driving up the 39 with bikes and bags in the trunk," explains one reviewer who found it perfect for bikepacking beginners.
Trout fishing: Several creeks throughout the area support seasonal fishing. A visitor to Valley Forge Trail Camp recommends: "If you plan on leaving your vehicle at one of the developed recreation sites while your on your hike be sure to have an Adventure Pass." The camp sits near the West Fork San Gabriel River where campers can fish for trout.
What campers like
Cooling creek access: Almost all trail camps feature creek access for water filtering and cooling off. At Bear Canyon Campground, a camper describes: "Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end. Trail tends to get iffy at points, but you kinda get to know the flow of it if it disappears into rocks or the creek."
Food storage facilities: Bear boxes are available at several locations. A Millard Trail Campground visitor explains: "Shade is plentiful, and benches and bear boxes available for each of the 6 sites. Few bugs around, so no need to hose yourself down with repellent."
Winter creek flow: Water levels vary dramatically by season. One camper at West Fork Trail Campground noted: "I go in March/April so the stream has plenty of water to drink. It is a challenging hike if you have a heavy pack. However, there is a utility road you can take that would make it 100% easier."
What you should know
Car security concerns: Several trail camps have reported break-ins at trailhead parking areas. A Millard Trail Campground camper warned: "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."
Bathroom availability: Facilities vary widely between camps. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, a recent visitor mentioned: "New outhouse built within the last year. There's no water right now but that could change after first rain or snow."
Day use traffic: Many trail camps sit along popular day hiking routes. A reviewer noted about Millard Trail Camp: "This campground is not a campground if you want to get away from people because there is a lot of people passing by looking at you. You can't really be isolated or have privacy even though it is a campground."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For first-time backpackers with children, choose less strenuous approaches. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, one camper shared: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings offer the best chances to spot deer and other animals. A visitor to West Fork Trail Campground shared: "I have woke in the morning to deer on several occasions."
Scout-friendly locations: Spruce Grove Trail Campground accommodates group camping for organized youth activities. "Great spot with beautiful hikes! We were there with a larger group for a scout trip and it was great. Lots of room for our tents," reported one scout leader.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size restrictions: RVs can't access any of the trail camps, but several parking areas accommodate smaller vehicles for overnight parking with proper permits. Glenn Trail Camp offers "an honest 6.5 miles of a relatively flat paved road" according to one bikepacker who appreciated the accessibility.
Base camp alternatives: RVers can stay at developed campgrounds outside the forest and day hike to the trail camps. One visitor to Gould Mesa Trail Campground noted it's "a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos. It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings."
