Camping spots near La Cañada Flintridge range from riverside tent sites to RV parks with full hookups. Located at the edge of Angeles National Forest, campers can find options at elevations from 1,200 to 4,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between sites. The area receives minimal rainfall from May through October, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Millard Trail Campground, a short 30-minute hike leads to Millard Falls. "Fun little campground with decent facilities and beautiful surroundings. Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking: Several campgrounds connect to bike-friendly trails. "The trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more. It was easy to imagine you weren't anywhere close to the city," explains a camper at Malibu Creek State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Wake up early to spot animals at their most active. "I have woke in the morning to deer on several occasions," reports a camper at West Fork Trail Campground, while another mentions, "From my favorite the Jet black Ravens, rabbits, coyotes, and interesting botany there are plenty of creatures to aww and be thankful for."
Waterfront activities: The lakes provide recreational options beyond swimming. "You can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more," shares a visitor at Bonelli Bluffs.
What campers like
Streamside camping: The sound of running water enhances the camping experience. "A lovely creek runs south-west along the edge of the campground," notes a Millard visitor. Another camper adds, "Plenty of water flowing and tree cover from the sun."
Star gazing: Clear skies make for excellent night viewing. "Lots of stars," mentions a camper at Castaic Lake, while Little Pine Campground visitors often comment on the "relaxing night of camping under the stars and next to the fire."
Morning quiet: Early hours offer the best nature experiences. "It was a bit busy during the day. They close the gate at 10 pm I believe, so the evening was nice and quiet," shares a Millard Trail camper.
Proximity to attractions: The location allows for urban adventures. One camper at Thousand Trails notes, "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by campground and season. "Camp fire pits but check for permits," advises a Millard visitor. At Castaic Lake, a camper notes, "Each campsite has a table and fire ring."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between sites. One camper at Thousand Trails reports, "No WIFI and reception for Verizon was hit or miss," while another specifies, "Phone service and wifi are adequate in most parts of the camp."
Wildlife precautions: Food storage is essential. "Must put away all your food because the raccoons will get into it," warns a Castaic Lake visitor. At Millard Trail Camp, another camper advises, "It's in Bear country so they provide food storage for each campsite."
Water availability: Not all sites provide drinking water. "You do have to hike out your own water or filter from the stream," notes a West Fork Trail camper. Another mentions, "There is a creek that runs through the campground which makes it very pretty."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible trails: Look for child-friendly hikes. "Me and my girlfriend decided to go on this trail with our two doggos on a hot 95 degree day and we had such a good time the waterfall trail is nothing but shade provided by the trees foliage," shares a Millard visitor.
Consider campground noise levels: Weekdays are typically quieter. A camper at Camp Williams Resort notes, "We enjoyed the small location with about 3 RV sites available for overnights. We had full hookups and a shaddy spot."
Pack for temperature changes: Evening temperatures can drop significantly. "Gets dusty, and a bit hot sometimes," mentions a Thousand Trails visitor, emphasizing the need for varied clothing options.
Look for shade coverage: Sites with tree cover make hot days more bearable. "Site #13 feels more secluded than other sites on the campground," recommends a Little Pine visitor, while another notes, "Nice sized spot. We stayed on site 15, with a great view."
Tips from RVers
Book specific sites: Not all RV spaces are equal. "Several folks with dogs they let simply sit outside and bark, poo, etc...strict rules against that, in most all resorts we've ever visited. Unless you plan on tenting, cabin or what have you, it's not worth it," warns a Thousand Trails visitor.
Check height restrictions: Some areas limit vehicle size. At Leo Carrillo State Park, a visitor cautions, "Attention pour avoir accès à la mer, le véhicule doit faire moins de 8 feet!"
Consider hookup availability: Facilities vary widely between parks. "There aren't sewer or water hook ups, electrical only, but for me that's perfectly fine for a long weekend or short week with 2 kids and 2 adults," shares a Leo Carrillo camper.
Plan for dump stations: Know where to empty tanks. "They do have 3 dump stations, too, so that made it nice!" notes another Leo Carrillo visitor. At Bonelli Bluffs, one camper confirms, "Only plus each site have full hookups and sewer."
