Tent camping around Juniper Hills, California takes advantage of the area's high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet in the Angeles National Forest. The region experiences significant temperature swings between day and night, with summer daytime highs regularly exceeding 90°F while dropping to the 50s after sunset. Winter conditions often bring snow to higher elevation campsites, limiting access to these areas from approximately May through November.
What to do
Hiking to mountain summits: From Little Jimmy Trail Campground, backpackers can access several peaks for day hikes. "A short hike from little jimmy spring, where you can get water to filter. Also a short hike from mount baden Powell, mount Williamson & mount islip," notes Anthony K.
Stream fishing: The West Fork San Gabriel River provides fishing opportunities near Glenn Trail Camp Campground. "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," writes Kevin L.
Backpacking sections of the PCT: Many campsites serve as connectors to longer hikes. "You can relax at camp or get back on the pct and check out some falls," explains Tony C. about Cooper Canyon Trail Campground, making it ideal for section hikers wanting to experience portions of this famous long trail.
Night sky observation: The area's elevation and distance from urban centers creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "At night, you have an amazing view of the sky," notes Tony C., highlighting one of the natural benefits of camping in this high desert region.
What campers like
Natural water sources: The presence of springs and streams provides critical water access in an otherwise arid region. "There is usually a stream for filtering water. Plenty of sites for camping," writes Stacy C. about Valley Forge Trail Camp.
Secluded sites with privacy: Many backpackers appreciate the well-spaced campsites. "The sites are nicely spaced and there is plenty of shade. Perfect little backpacking trip," Morgan F. says about Spruce Grove Trail Campground.
Accessibility for beginners: Several campgrounds offer manageable hiking distances for those new to backpacking. "I 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," Kelly B. explains about Valley Forge Trail Camp.
Bear infrastructure: "Now there are bear lockers - please use them! Has picnic tables. Many trails lead from here," notes Jennifer D. about Little Jimmy Campground, highlighting the practical safety features that make food storage more manageable in bear country.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Stream-dependent sites can change dramatically through the year. "We went in March/April so the stream has plenty of water to drink... No water facet but there is a toilet," explains Will B. about West Fork Trail Campground.
Toilet conditions vary widely: Maintenance schedules can be unpredictable. "The pit toilets were some of the worse we've ever used and the door was slightly busted from one of the Boy Scouts," reports Alexa S. about Little Jimmy Trail Campground.
Fire restrictions: Always check current regulations before planning to build fires. "Check for fire restrictions and dig your cat holes at least 200 feet from the water. Or bring WAG bags and pack it back out," advises Tom P. about Spruce Grove Trail Campground.
Road closures: Access points can change unexpectedly. "Drove all the way to the turn in to find the road was closed," cautions Bryce C. about Valley Forge Trail Camp. Check with the Angeles National Forest office before departure.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible hike-in options: For families new to backpacking, select sites with manageable distances. "I have been wanting to take my girlfriend backpacming 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," recommends Andrew G. about Glenn Trail Camp Campground.
Look for sites with amenities: Some campgrounds offer better infrastructure for groups with children. "I stayed here during my PCT hike and was glad to find the campsite. It had flush toilets, water spigots, picnic tables, and fire pits as well as large campsites seemingly fitting for big groups," describes Alexa S. about Jackson Flats.
Pack for temperature swings: The high desert experiences dramatic day-to-night temperature changes. "The temperature in early June was perfect - warm during the day and cool at night," notes Les R. about Jackson Flats, emphasizing the importance of bringing appropriate clothing layers.
Watch for insect activity: Tent campers should prepare for seasonal bugs. "The gnats are annoying so I recommend a bug screen cover for your face," warns Tony C. about Cooper Canyon Trail Campground.
Tips from RVers
Use Cloudburst Summit parking: Cooper Canyon Trail Campground offers nearby parking for those combining RV and tent camping. "Parking at cloudburst summit, gets full during peak season so get there early, first come first serve," advises Tony C.
Consider dispersed RV camping alternatives: While most sites near Juniper Hills require hiking in, RVers can find options by continuing north. "Spacious sites, enough for groups and numerous tents," notes Freddy L. about Angeles National Forest Deer Flats Group Campground, which allows drive-in access.
Plan for overnight parking restrictions: Many trailheads have specific parking rules. "Access through Eaton Canyon (the long way but plenty of parking, NOT OVERNIGHT!) or Cobb's Ranch at the end of Lake Street...but there is only street parking here and I don't know what the restrictions are now," cautions Tom P. about accessing Mount Lowe Trail Campground.
