Tent camping opportunities near La Mirada, California cluster in the San Gabriel Mountains where elevations range from 1,500 to 5,000 feet, creating varied ecosystems from chaparral to pine forest. Most primitive campsites require hiking on forest trails, with distances varying from 1 to 8 miles depending on trailhead access. Seasonal creek flows affect water availability, with peak conditions occurring from January through May.
What to do
Waterfall hikes accessible year-round: From Millard Trail Campground, a short 30-minute hike leads to a waterfall even during summer. One visitor noted, "Waterfall 30 minutes hike upstream. It was a bit busy during the day. They close the gate at 10 pm I believe, so the evening was nice and quiet."
Mountain biking on designated paths: China Camp State Park offers excellent trail systems for bikers of all skill levels. "This park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin," reports one camper who frequently visits the area.
Wildlife watching in canyon settings: Valley Forge Trail Camp provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper mentioned, "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, and birds)." Most sightings occur during early morning or evening hours when animals are most active.
What campers like
Overnight solitude after day visitors leave: Many tent campers appreciate how different the experience becomes after park gates close. At Millard Trail Campground, one camper noted, "This campground is a very short drive from Pasadena, CA, and in fact there are some rustic homes adjacent to the campground. Parking is about 150 yards away, down a hill, so be prepared to haul your gear."
Creek-side camping during spring months: Hoegees Trail Camp Campground features a reliable water source. A visitor explained, "You must pack your garbage out. Campsite is very nice with enough sites for about 20 campers with a privy but no running water. There is a creek that might or might not have water in it."
Quiet trail camps away from urban noise: Mount Lowe Trail Campground provides exceptional quiet. "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own heartbeats laying there at night. We went in May this year so not much people around. Brand new toilet is nice as well."
What you should know
Limited water sources require planning: Most tent sites near La Mirada require water treatment systems. At Gould Mesa Trail Campground, a camper advised, "The stream is great. If you have a filter there is no need to hike in water." Stream reliability varies seasonally, with flows typically strongest from February through May.
Wildlife encounters require proper food storage: Raccoons and other animals frequently visit camps. One visitor to China Camp State Park warned, "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food. I stupidly left my tent unzipped for a few minutes to run up and use the bathroom at night and came back to find 2 rooting around my things."
Car security concerns at trailheads: Some parking areas have reported break-ins. At Idlehour Trail Campground, one visitor cautioned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking options: Several camps within 3-4 miles of trailheads work well for children. A visitor to Valley Forge Trail Camp shared, "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."
Shaded campgrounds for summer comfort: Spruce Grove Trail Campground offers extensive tree coverage. A camper noted, "This is a hike in campground that has stoves and a creek running through. The sites are nicely spaced and there is plenty of shade. Perfect little backpacking trip."
Daytime crowds vs. overnight experience: Some popular areas see heavy day use but transform at night. One visitor to Gould Mesa Trail Campground explained, "There were a dozen or so mountain bikers and about the same amount of hikers runners that venture by the campground throughout the day. Not enough to really ruin the experience, just enough to notice them there."
Tips from RVers
Tent-only trail camps not suitable for RVs: The San Gabriel Mountain campsites near La Mirada specifically accommodate tent camping with no RV access. A visitor to Glenn Trail Camp Campground explains, "The trailhead to the campground is impossible to miss, as it is marked by a large parking lot and a sign marked 'Cogswell Dam'. This campground is so perfect for bikepacking novices or those looking to do a gear check because it's an honest 6.5 miles of a relatively flat paved road."
