The Angeles National Forest offers diverse camping options just miles from Verdugo City, California. Elevations range from 1,200 to 5,000 feet, creating noticeable temperature differences between canyon and mountain sites. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during day while dropping to 50°F at night in higher elevation campgrounds, making layered clothing essential year-round.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 30-minute trail access. At Millard Trail Campground, campers can follow a nearby trail to explore local waterfalls. "About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty. But there are several trails to take for hiking and biking and I saw lots of people doing that," notes a visitor who gave the site four stars.
Sunrise viewpoints: Early morning views of city skyline. The dispersed sites at Angeles Crest Overlook to LA provide dramatic morning vistas. "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise!" shares one camper. While technically a parking area rather than a traditional campground, it serves those seeking quick overnight access to panoramic views.
Creek swimming: Seasonal water relief. Several campgrounds feature streams that provide cooling options during hot weather. "We filtered water from the West Fork San Gabriel River that seems more like a creek. Picnic tables and fire rings made food preparing especially easy," writes a visitor to Valley Forge Trail Camp, highlighting the practical benefits of creekside camping.
What campers like
Proximity to LA: Quick weekend escape. Angeles National Forest campgrounds provide city-close camping without long drives. A camper at Chilao Campground reported, "Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn't ask for more." This accessibility makes these sites popular for spontaneous weekend trips.
Bear boxes: Food storage provided. Multiple campgrounds offer bear boxes at each site, eliminating the need to bring special storage containers. "It's in Bear country so they provide food storage for each campsite also trash containers too," shares a Millard Trail camper, adding practical information about on-site amenities.
Seasonal water features: Spring visit benefits. Water availability varies dramatically by season. "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green owasis of a meadow. I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer," explains a visitor to Valley Forge Trail Camp.
What you should know
Bear activity: Common visitors. Bears frequent many campgrounds in the Angeles National Forest. "A bear was on our stuff the first night. I whistled and it ran away. In the morning today, we seen another, casually walking Into the grounds," reports a camper at Monte Cristo Campground, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Vehicle break-ins: Leave nothing valuable. Car security issues affect some trailhead parking areas. "Make sure to leave your car doors unlocked, and nothing of value inside. You'd rather have someone root through your car and walk away empty handed than have a window broken and items stolen," warns a Millard Trail camper.
Road closures: Check conditions before travel. Access roads to several campgrounds close seasonally or unexpectedly. "Drove all the way to the turn in to find the road was closed," notes a frustrated Valley Forge Trail Camp visitor, emphasizing the need to verify current road status.
Tips for camping with families
Short hike-in options: Kid-friendly backpacking. Several campgrounds offer easy hiking access ideal for families. "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," shares a Valley Forge Trail Camp visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Educational encounters. Many campsites offer chances to observe local wildlife safely. "From my favorite the Jet black Ravens, rabbits, coyotes, and interesting botany there are plenty of creatures to aww and be thankful for," describes a visitor to Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon.
Vault toilet conditions: Variable cleanliness. Bathroom facilities vary widely across campgrounds. "There is one restroom on-site which also serves the day-hikers. It is not maintained well, and often smells bad," reports a Millard Trail Campground camper, providing important information for families planning longer stays.
Tips from RVers
RV parking logistics: Size restrictions apply. Most Angeles National Forest campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. "I pulled a 26 TT. I came in from the La side of the mountains and found it's easier to go in from Palmdale with a rv or tt. If your hauling anything longer then 20 ft. Try for site 11," advises a Monte Cristo camper.
Urban RV option: Full hookups available. For those seeking RV camping with amenities closer to the city, Hollywood RV Park provides an alternative to forest camping. "This isn't a self-park park...the spaces are so close together that they use a cart to park you. On the upside, the bathrooms and showers were clean and plentiful," explains a visitor, highlighting the trade-offs of urban RV camping.
Accessibility considerations: Limited options. RVers with accessibility needs should research specific sites. "This is one of the best handicap accessible shower and restroom areas we've seen. The larger pool had a roll in area but I do not know if they had a wheelchair that would allow you to actually use it or if you needed your own," notes a Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon visitor.
