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The San Gabriel Mountains north of Glendora, California provide a diverse range of camping experiences within an hour's drive of the city. Angeles National Forest dominates the landscape, offering established campgrounds like Crystal Lake Recreation Area and Coldbrook Campground at higher elevations. Bonelli Bluffs in nearby San Dimas provides lakeside camping with full hookups for RVs, while more primitive options exist deeper in the forest. The terrain transitions dramatically from suburban neighborhoods to mountain wilderness, with elevations ranging from 800 feet in the foothills to over 5,000 feet in the higher mountain campgrounds. This proximity to both urban amenities and mountain wilderness makes the area particularly appealing for weekend getaways.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the region. Most mountain campgrounds operate from April through November, closing during winter months due to snow and freezing conditions. As one camper noted about Crystal Lake, "The number of people who come up here in the winter and are shocked that the piped ground water is frozen are well, 'special.'" Fire restrictions vary throughout the year, with complete bans common during the dry summer and fall months. Adventure Passes are required for parking at many trailheads and campgrounds within Angeles National Forest. Cell service is spotty to non-existent in canyon areas, though reception improves at higher elevations and ridge tops. Weekends during summer months see heavy visitation, particularly at more accessible campgrounds.
Mountain campgrounds receive consistently positive reviews for their ability to provide wilderness experiences despite proximity to urban areas. Visitors frequently mention the dramatic temperature differences between the city and mountain camps, with cool pine forests offering relief from summer heat. Noise levels vary significantly by location, with highway-adjacent sites experiencing traffic sounds while more remote locations offer greater tranquility. Campers report wildlife sightings including bears in the higher elevations, requiring proper food storage. The contrast between developed and primitive sites is substantial - Bonelli Bluffs offers amenities like showers and hookups, while forest yellow post sites provide only basic fire rings and tables. Many reviewers note the therapeutic value of these accessible natural areas, with one stating the mountains "make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."
"Our experience at Bonelli Bluffs Campground was mostly positive, but there were a couple of aspects that could be improved."
"The views around the outskirts of B loop are just lovely, the staff has been so friendly and helpful (we’re RV newbies and had a ton of questions) the store was stocked with all of the little things we"
from $76 - $88 / night
Check Availability"We’ve done Crystal Lake probably 6 dozen times or more in our time in California and it never disappoints on the spectacular views."
"Whenever I need to get away from LALA Land, I head up here. I grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania, so , sometimes , I need to kick back and recharge."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."
"Coldbrooke is a excellent campground that is relatively close to the city. The camp host was super helpful in explaining the fire restrictions and overall questions."
"Beautiful trails near by, next to a stream, gorgeous views, and of course that mountain air! Trees are perfect for hammocks."
"It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Campground 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"
"Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn’t ask for more"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"I grew up around in the area so I have been to this park quite a few times for a few different reasons. It is a very expansive and versatile area."
"It's a nice park great for long walks and trail riding on bikes great for the dog 🐕 also a bit windy so you need to keep a eye on your awning, great cell service with at&t ."
from $47 - $120 / night
Check Availability"If you have a chance after - drive the whole Angeles crest highway! Worth the trouble. You are also located close to the PCT, take a hike!"
"We got a campsite that was on the outside of the loop. We were in Cherokee loop in campsite #87."
from $30 - $500 / night
Check Availability"Close by Hobit trails clear and inviting trails .rivers and in the winter snow....lots of campsites.... seen deer..rabbits and a multitude of squirrels. ..."
"Top of mt Baldy road.. almost as far as you can drive. Not many sites, about 20. One giant loop. No reservations needed."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"OKAY... seriously this one of the best campgrounds near Los Angeles. My ultimate go to spot for an overnight camping trip."
"We were told that the water pumps were off but actually managed to camp right next to the one that was working. The bathrooms were super clean too!"
"car there in the parking lot can seem like it's a mile away even though it's not that far away very pleased with it very noisy with the traffic going by if that's where your spot is by the road but away from"
TravelerIt was a good site. Post 6 and 5 and next to each other but have high ground low which gave privacy. Nice flat ground to post tent. Had a table and grill but unfortunately when we came there was a fire restriction but was able to use gas stove. Just going to add that there was a lot of trash left over please pick up after yourself. Ask for dumping stations. Was able to clean and dispose of it safely. (EW)
ScoutI do recommend. Beautiful, peaceful place. Good folks. It’s right near Magic Mountain theme park and many useful stores nearby: Home Depot, Walmart, Target, genetic stores, movie theaters. I’ll camp here again.
ScoutFirst time and I love it, this place is beautiful, you camp and you get to go to the lake. Best camp site 10,11,26,27
TravelerWell-kept campground with minimal amenities, but the breathtaking views more than make up for it. Very quiet, less than half the sites were occupied during our stay. Only real drawback was it was quite breezy, but it was perfectly manageable with proper planning.
The nearby lodge was a neat addition, and there’s a very cool disc golf course next door.
Site 49 was flat and spacious, with a spectacular view of the sunset.
Scoutdon’t try to reach out to this park via phone with any questions, they won’t answer you. they won’t even answer the phone when their own reservation agents are calling them. gates close strictly at 10 so if you’re camping here make sure to show up by then. showed up at 9:58 after leaving a music festival early to make sure i made it on time, and their staff was immensely rude to me about not making it on time. the morning staff is incredibly nice, apologizing for the problems and giving me advice. the night staff though has a problem and they take it out on their visitors. for how rude they were to me, somehow the campsite across from me showed up at 11pm, so seems like they pick and choose who to give problems. avoid camping here. campsites are very close together and nothing special.
TravelerBeautiful, well maintenance, great experience. So clean.
GuideWe have been to this campground quite a few times in the last couple of years and I really love it, personally because it’s really close to home. I also love that it’s first come first serve, which allows us to spontaneously go and enjoy without having to make reservations. I also like the fact that all the campsites have a fire pit and a picnic table, which were very recently replaced so they look very new. They installed metal storage boxes for saving your food overnight, this is super helpful. I love the creek even though the water is freezing cold but it’s truly a favorite. This place is wonderful and even though right now there is no water access until further notice, as long as you know you need to take lots of water for cooking and cleaning up you are good.
ScoutThe place is simple, well maintained and extremely clean. There’s back in sites that accommodate smaller 20ft campers and bigger 30ft campers, with there being some pull through sites that are big enough for RV’s, however no camping with tents allowed. Would recommend against bringing in campers with damage or DIY repairs as they “have to maintain sightly appearance”. Overall great for the price. Extremely clean bathrooms with free showers with a pool and jacuzzi plus a short walk to the beach. Only about a 45 min drive to LA with no traffic. The only bad is the constant noise from the port that doesn’t go away at night.
GuideIf you like camping in a Walmart parking lot or on the streets, this place is for you.
No rangers working after the park close for day use. Didn't see one going through the campground. If you like to party all night and you have a loud system no problem. NO RAGERS AROUND. Be prepared keep your food in your car lot of rats, mice, skunks and coyotes. THE LAKE SUCKS, hard to launch your boat on and off, docks will mess up your boat. Fishing no fish they don't stock the lake. Marina is very over priced and out in the sunny parking lot. I live in LA I now got to SILVERWOOD LAKE, just as close as this place, and nicer, if you like to stay up all night Perris Lake is for you. If you want to work hard to get you boat on and off lake so you don't damage your boat, this place is for you.
Dispersed camping locations near Glendora, California range from densely wooded mountainsides to high-elevation pine forests with temperatures often 15-20 degrees cooler than the valley. The road systems throughout Angeles National Forest create varying accessibility challenges, with some higher-elevation sites requiring high-clearance vehicles during winter months. Yellow post sites offer more primitive camping experiences for visitors seeking alternatives to developed campgrounds.
Horseback riding trails: Bonelli Bluffs offers equestrian-friendly paths within 20 minutes of Glendora. "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," notes Jessica P., who adds "I brought my horses one time and it was amazing the best time of my life."
Mountain biking: Chilao Campground provides access to extensive trail networks suitable for cyclists of varying skill levels. The campground serves as a starting point for rides along fire roads and single tracks. "There are easy hiking trails all over & good trees for hanging my hammock. The campsites are very spacious and clean," according to Melinda M.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water features throughout the region offer fishing spots with varying seasonal regulations. Lakes near developed campgrounds provide more accessible fishing than remote stream locations. "I always come here to have a picnic and fish," mentions Jessica P. about her experiences at Bonelli Bluffs.
Temperature variation: The significant elevation changes between Glendora and the mountain campsites create refreshing temperature differences, especially in summer months. "Best place in angeles forest for a great weekend getaway. First come first serve. 2 loop campgrounds either one is good. Great view all around," shares Stacy C. about Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground.
Seclusion despite proximity: Many camping areas near Glendora provide surprisingly isolated experiences despite being close to urban areas. "We found an AMAZING little spot right on a stream to set up. The ranger came by to say hello and he ended up giving us some advice on the weather and a warning about the hike," explains Kate W. about her stay at Coldbrook Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently observe local wildlife including deer, bears, and various bird species. "ANIMALS SEEN: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds," reports Forest G. from Crystal Lake Recreation Area, adding "Bring bug spray."
Fire restriction variations: Regulations change frequently based on season and weather conditions. "Campsite comes with a picnic table, a small fire pit ring and bbq grill... we camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires," explains Alexis S. from Coldbrook Campground.
Water availability challenges: Many campgrounds have inconsistent water access depending on season and maintenance status. "We were told that the water pumps were off but actually managed to camp right next to the one that was working," notes Amairani P. about Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground.
Campsite occupation patterns: Weekday availability differs dramatically from weekends, especially during summer months. "We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there," shares Forest G. about Coldbrook.
Playground access: Rolling M. Ranch Campground offers family-friendly facilities including play areas. "There's also a number of hiking trails that leave from the campground. The only cell service is on top of the closest hill. Its a good spot for a quick getaway from the city," explains Berton M.
Stream exploration: Campgrounds with water features provide natural entertainment for children. "We had a campsite next to the creek and it was beautiful to see and listen to... At night, we camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires. We sat in the darkness and took in the stars with the sound of the creek below us," describes Alexis S.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe and learn about local fauna. "Lots of space between campsites. Babbling brook to lull you to sleep at night. Very quiet after 10:00 pm. Great for families. Great hiking trail that was very well maintained," shares Vickie C. about Buckhorn Campground.
Size restrictions: Many mountain campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended," advises Lauralyn J. about Buckhorn Campground, while another camper notes the winding mountain roads can be challenging.
Hookup options: Full-service sites are limited to specific campgrounds at lower elevations. "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," reports Dennis B. from Bonelli Bluffs.
RV-specific site selection: Choosing level sites is crucial for comfortable camping. "We drove up in our 26ft motorhome and while we made it, I'm not sure that I'd want to make that drive again. It's very narrow and winding, single lane at times... Upper spots were not level, but they had a nicer view. Lower spots were more level," notes Laura M. about Rolling M. Ranch Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Glendora campground located?
The Glendora area has several campgrounds in the surrounding Angeles National Forest. Little Jimmy Trail Campground is located above Crystal Lake, just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway and is a backcountry hike-in site. For those looking to stay closer to San Bernardino, Applewhite Campground is situated 5-7 miles from the 215 highway in a natural setting. The area offers access to numerous hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities in the San Gabriel Mountains.
What amenities are available at the Glendora camping area?
Campgrounds near Glendora offer various amenities depending on the location. O'Neill Regional Park provides clean facilities with free showers, making it ideal for hikers, bikers, and runners. The canyon setting offers beautiful scenery, though you'll hear some road noise. At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, you'll find an oasis of green grass and Coastal Live Oak trees. Most campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities like vault toilets and fire rings, with San Bernardino National Forest Green Valley Campground offering simple tent sites with campfire access.
Can I bring an RV to camp in Glendora?
Yes, there are RV-friendly camping options near Glendora. Bonelli Bluffs in nearby San Dimas offers full RV accommodations, though some campers note it lacks playground amenities for children. For beach camping with your RV, Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground provides concrete/asphalt sites with water, electric hookups, and a dump station. It's located along PCH with easy access to Long Beach and Disneyland, making it convenient for family visits while enjoying beachfront camping in Southern California.
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