Tent camping near Fullerton, California offers multiple hiking-accessible options in the San Gabriel Mountains between 30-45 minutes from the city. Several primitive campsites sit at elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures in summer months than the urban areas below. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at these elevations, with seasonal creeks typically flowing from January through June.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 30-minute trails lead to scenic spots from several campgrounds. At Millard Trail Campground, "It's a gorgeous trail with a waterfall that's only half a mile but we definitely took our time as it's a gorgeous trail," according to Chris O., who found the shaded trail perfect even on 95-degree days.
Mountain biking: Designated scenic routes connect several campgrounds. China Camp State Park Campground offers extensive trails for cyclists. Nathaniel S. writes, "The trail running and hiking is great too. The campground is off the main road that parallels the bay. It's located just past a meadow, and in the increasingly rare wet months, there's a creek that runs through the park."
Creek fishing: Seasonal opportunities available at select locations. When camping at Glenn Trail Camp Campground, Kevin L. notes, "If you're trying to bike_fish_ (it's a thing), this road is lined with fishing platforms for all sorts of trout, as the road follows a river the entire way."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide the best opportunities. At China Camp State Park Campground, Rosie C. observed, "I loved all the wildlife (birds, owls, deer, rabbits, raccoons). Our site was perfect, lots of flat space for tents and still some distance from other sites." Remember that food storage is critical as "the raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE!"
Stream-side camping: Seasonal water sources offer natural cooling and ambient sounds. Valley Forge Trail Camp features "a beautifully green oasis of a meadow" according to Kelly B., who adds, "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite." Water is typically present January through early summer.
Isolation without distance: Close-but-remote feeling makes these sites unique. Mount Lowe Trail Campground provides this experience, with one camper noting, "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own heartbeats laying there at night." The campground features a new outhouse facility constructed within the last year.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most sites lack amenities beyond basic pit toilets. At Millard Trail Campground, K.B. reports, "There is one restroom on-site which also serves the day-hikers. It is not maintained well, and often smells bad."
Water treatment necessary: Stream water requires filtering or chemical treatment. When visiting Valley Forge Trail Camp, David F. advises, "If you're running low on your water supply, visit the nearby stream, just always remember to treat before you taste."
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly from Friday-Sunday. Anthony K. notes about Mount Lowe Trail Campground, "Fantastic views on a clear day and quite a few hikers pass through here on the weekend."
Parking limitations: Trailhead lots fill early on weekends. At Millard Trail Campground, Mathew H. warns, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Easy first backpacking experience: Short trails make these sites accessible for beginners. Hoegees Trail Camp Campground offers an ideal introduction, with Andrew G. sharing, "I have been wanting to take my girlfriend backpacking for quite some time but wanted an easy trail to start her off with, and this was it, an easy paved 6 1/2 miles in to camp all the way along a creek."
Wildlife education opportunities: Dawn animal sightings provide learning experiences. China Camp offers diverse wildlife viewing with Veronica H. reporting, "The hosts are friendly, cheap firewood, china beach village is just down the road and perfect to explore and swim."
Establish clear boundaries: Some campgrounds border steep terrain. At Gould Mesa Trail Campground, Tony C. advises, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Only select sites accommodate vehicles. Doheny State Beach Campground provides one of few RV-friendly options near Fullerton, with Paul N. noting, "Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available."
Narrow dump stations: Careful maneuvering required at service points. At Doheny State Beach, Manuel P. warns, "Dump site is narrow so watch your sides. There's a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine. There's a hose there to use for clean up or flushing tank."
Advance planning required: Reserve sites 6+ months ahead for summer weekends. Kimberly A. emphasizes Doheny State Beach's popularity: "I love this park because you are right on the sand!"
