Angeles National Forest offers numerous horse campgrounds near Glendale, California. The forest ranges in elevation from 1,200 to 10,064 feet, providing diverse terrain for equestrians and other campers. During summer months, temperatures at higher elevations typically remain 15-20 degrees cooler than in Glendale, making these sites popular refuges from urban heat.
What to do
Bouldering at Horse Flats Campground: Located in Angeles National Forest, the area features numerous bouldering opportunities. "Nice place to stay for climbing - there is mostly bouldering in the area, with some trad stuff. Plenty of sites!" notes Kathleen L. who visited Horse Flats Campground.
Hiking to Bear Canyon: This secluded hike-in campground requires effort but rewards with natural beauty. "Great campground with multiple sites. Fire pits & along Bear Creek (seasonal). Can be reached from Tom Sloan Saddle or Switzer Falls Trailhead," shares Anthony K. about Bear Canyon Campground.
Explore movie locations: The surrounding areas contain famous filming sites. "The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more," explains Ryan W. who camped at Malibu Creek State Park.
What campers like
Peaceful seclusion: Many horse camps near Glendale provide quiet environments away from urban noise. "No individual campsites. They're set up in groups 2, 3 or 4 But it's probably never a problem as this place doesn't seem to get lots of visitors. It is a nice place and campground with lots of trees that provide some shade during the day," reports Luissimo M. about Horse Flats Campground.
Year-round accessibility: Some campsites remain open throughout winter. "We camped here this weekend, which is the latest we've gone before the winter months. This past week had record high temperatures for all of Southern California, so I can't say how representative our experience was compared to typically late fall trips in other years," shares Les R. about camping at Horse Flats in October.
Clean facilities: Musch Trail Camp in Topanga State Park maintains high standards. "Did not expect the bathrooms to be very clean. They have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands," notes marcos P. The camp serves as another equestrian-friendly option near Glendale.
What you should know
Prepare for insects: Summer months bring increased bug activity to horse campgrounds. "Bring some bug spray if you're bugged by bugs. Other than that there was plenty of space for plenty of campers," advises Josh F. about Horse Flats Campground.
Variable weather conditions: Mountain elevations can experience significant temperature changes. "The temperature was warm during the day, but we definitely brought layers and adequate sleeping gear for the night. Even though it was 79 degrees in the day, temperature got down to 54 at night," shares Les R. about October camping at Horse Flats.
Pack in all water: Mount Pacifico Campground and several other horse camps near Glendale require self-sufficiency. "Great views 360 degrees once you're on top. A 7 mile hike north on the Pacific Crest Trail from mill creek fire station. Fire rings with multiple spots," explains Anthony K., highlighting both views and the need for preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For families with children, select campgrounds with appropriate facilities. "Campground is beautiful!! Spacious campsites with fire pits, and clean bathrooms (bring your own hand soap). Be aware of the limited hours for entering with a vehicle (8am-10pm)," advises Lizzie C. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Consider heat factors: Summer camping requires planning around temperature. "I came here during the summer and it was extremely HOT. Typically during the summer season, I like to find campgrounds that have a lot of lush trees so we can be under the canopies and stay cool, but Malibu Creek State Park is so convenient to LA," warns Chanel C.
Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy animal sightings. "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. If you have a dog with you make sure they don't try join the pack," notes Ryan W. about Malibu Creek State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications: Not all equestrian campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "Best for tents, tight for RVs," advises Rick L. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Research water access: "There are a few campgrounds in this area of the Angeles National Forest. Horse Flats is not as popular as Buckhorn, and is a little less 'green' with regards to the immediate scenery. Make sure to get food and firewood before you start the drive up the mountain, as there is no place to purchase such supplies near the camps," suggests Les R.
Consider family-friendly alternatives: Rancho Jurupa Park offers facilities that appeal to families traveling with RVs. "Cottonwood is for the true RV'ers. Lakeside is more for tent camping. Nice park for family camping," explains Michele N., referencing the different camping areas available.
