Angeles National Forest offers tent camping options within 30 minutes of Glendale, California. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,400 and 5,700 feet, creating temperature variations that can reach 20°F cooler than city temperatures during summer months. The forest contains over 50 miles of hiking trails connecting various campgrounds, with several creek-fed sites maintaining water flow even during drought conditions.
What to do
Trail exploration from Spruce Grove: Spruce Grove Trail Campground provides access to numerous hiking options. "Beautiful site above Sierra Madre. If the short hike to Sturtavant falls leaves you yearning for more, get more by continuing up Santa Anita Canyon to Spruce Grove Camp. Beyond the falls, the trail takes on a greater feeling of wilderness immersion," notes a camper.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings are common at Antfarm LA, especially at dawn and dusk. "I did see my first rattlesnake and heard the coyotes at night. Very peaceful spot for a long weekend," reports one visitor. Deer frequently visit West Fork Trail Campground as well.
Waterfall hikes: Several campgrounds offer access to seasonal waterfalls. "Go behind campsite one and you will find a 6 mile hike in and out to two different waterfalls. Really fun and refreshing, limited shade in hike, so a dip at the end is so nice!" explains a camper about Gould Mesa Trail Campground.
What campers like
Shade coverage: The forest canopy provides protection from summer heat at many tent camping sites near Glendale. "The campground is situated at a popular trailhead, and there is lots of good hiking nearby. A lovely creek runs south-west along the edge of the campground. There are approximately 4-6 sites, they are somewhat haphazardly spaced on a relatively flat area with good shade," notes a camper about Millard Trail Campground.
Stream access: Mount Lowe Trail Campground offers water features even during dry seasons. "There is a flowing creek right along the camp, and a 10 foot waterfall just 50 yards away. There are no tables, just some old fashion wood burning stoves," reports a visitor.
Privacy between sites: Many tent areas offer good separation between campsites. At Hoegees Trail Camp, "There's about 12 campsites with picnic benches and fire rings. There's a creek that runs through. it's beautiful and feels completely isolated."
What you should know
Challenging terrain: Many campgrounds require significant hiking with elevation changes. "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," notes a camper about West Fork Trail Campground.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Glendale have minimal amenities. "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)," explains a visitor about Idlehour Trail Campground.
Vehicle security concerns: Car break-ins occur at some trailhead parking areas. "The parking is available either at Oak Glen Park or further north on the streets...but check with the city on overnight street parking," advises a Gould Mesa Trail Campground user.
Water filtration needs: While streams run through many campgrounds, treatment is necessary. "Bring a way of making the water potable. Lots of things to do for the kids and plenty of trails. Be aware of any fire restrictions," cautions a Hoegees Trail Camp visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Starter backpacking destination: For first-time backpackers with children, Valley Forge Trail Camp offers accessible adventures. "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."
Pack weight considerations: When hiking with children to tent camping sites near Glendale, minimize loads. "It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings. Running stream at site so no need to bring a lot of water, just a filtration system and a jug," recommends a Gould Mesa visitor.
Day visitor traffic awareness: Some campgrounds see significant daytime hikers. "You can't really be isolated or have privacy even though it is a campground. People come here to hike into the trails to the waterfall," warns a Millard Trail camper.
Tips from RVers
No RV access: Tent camping near Glendale in Angeles National Forest does not accommodate RVs. "You drive up and down these hilly roads up the mountain to get there. Once there, there's a parking lot that fits about 20 cars. There's about 100 yd hike to the campsites. There's a road that leads to the campsite but it's been blocked off. Only the campsite managers use that road so it's not accessible by RV, just tents," explains a visitor to Millard Trail Campground.
