Angeles National Forest dominates the camping landscape north of Glendora, California, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 10,064 feet. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through November, closing during winter months when snow accumulation makes access difficult. Summer temperatures in lower elevation campgrounds can exceed 90°F while higher elevations stay 15-20 degrees cooler.
What to do
Hiking with pets: Crystal Lake Recreation Area Campground offers direct access to hiking trails that welcome leashed dogs. One camper noted, "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around. Dog friendly and the cafe isn't cheap but I swear has the nicest people and the best cocoa."
Bird watching opportunities: Table Mountain Campground sits at over 6,000 feet elevation with excellent bird watching conditions. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful campground. A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees... There's hiking trails right out of the campground. A stream runs through the campground in the spring."
Horseback riding: At Rolling M. Ranch Campground, equestrians can access dedicated trails and use the horse corrals. A reviewer noted, "The trails are varied, accessible by horseback, hiking, biking. Some trails are ready walking, some very strenuous."
What campers like
Affordable forest camping: Buckhorn Campground provides a budget-friendly alternative at $12 per night. As one visitor described it: "Beautiful campground. A babbling brook to lull you to sleep at night. Very quiet after 10:00 pm. Great for families."
Proximity to Los Angeles: Chilao Campground offers quick escapes from city life. A camper emphasized, "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around. Camp cost and parking cost isn't cheap but the views are great."
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites for privacy. A Chilao visitor noted, "Campsites are very spacious and clean (bathrooms were clean too!) I have been here a few times for a last minute weekend away, it's less than an hour from Pasadena."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many Angeles National Forest campgrounds enforce strict fire policies. At Table Mountain, a camper reported, "Great spot, clean vault toilets, and a good view. Only downside was the incredible high number of yellow jackets in the area and a fire restriction."
Cell service limitations: Most forest campgrounds have limited or no cell reception. At Chilao Campground, a visitor warned, "Note: cell phone reception there, be warned!"
Water availability: Some campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions. One Chilao camper advised, "Water is available but bring your own, there were boil signs everywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Best family campgrounds: Buckhorn Campground offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor recommended, "This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Table Mountain provides safe wildlife encounters. A camper reported, "Animals seen: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds."
Bug protection: Bring insect repellent to pet-friendly camping areas near Glendora. At Crystal Lake, one camper advised, "There are beautiful views of the mountains. Has bathrooms (no flush). Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it."
Tips for RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Table Mountain Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended."
Full hookup options: Fairplex RV Park provides full hookups close to town but with limited space. A visitor noted, "Although you're packed in pretty tight you better make sure that you like your neighbors it seems to be a very friendly quaint place."
Dump station access: Some forest campgrounds offer dump stations but no hookups. As one Manker Campground visitor described, "Small tent and motorhome campground with firepits, water spickets, bathrooms."
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