Camping spots near La Puente, California range from mountainous forest settings to urban-adjacent recreational parks. Most locations sit at elevations between 1,000 and 5,000 feet, providing relief from summer heat that often exceeds 90°F in the valley. The higher elevation campgrounds like Coldbrook in Angeles National Forest experience temperature drops of 15-20°F after sunset, requiring campers to pack layers even during summer months.
What to do
Mountain biking at Rolling M. Ranch: The trails at Chino Hills State Park provide excellent mountain biking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. "While either mountain biking or hiking I can always find a spot to get to with no trouble," notes Nicolas D., who frequently visits the park.
Fishing options year-round: Prado Regional Park offers fishing opportunities when conditions permit, though availability varies seasonally. One visitor mentions, "There is frisbee golf and many activities. Lots of space and very gorgeous. Does get hot in the summer," showing the diverse recreation options beyond just fishing.
Wildlife viewing after dark: Quiet evenings at Chino Hills State Park reward patient campers with animal sightings. According to William S., "After they left I got to enjoy some solitude, do a little birdwatching, and at night was treated to owls and coyotes calling."
Orange picking at RV parks: Some urban camping areas like Orangeland RV Park offer unique fruit harvesting opportunities. As one reviewer noted, "Super friendly staff, super clean, 2 dog parks, offers really good wifi & cable. Can pick the oranges out of the tree."
What campers like
Natural escapes close to urban centers: Campers appreciate how Coldbrook Campground provides quick access to nature despite urban proximity. One camper shared, "We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."
Access to water features: Streams add natural ambiance at several campgrounds. Alexis S. described Coldbrook: "We had a campsite next to the creek and it was beautiful to see and listen to... At night, we camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires. We sat in the darkness and took in the stars with the sound of the creek below us."
Spacious camping spots: Many campers highlight the generous spacing between sites. At Crystal Lake Recreation Area, sites provide privacy: "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around... this campground is HUGE and many locations are rather secluded so unless you go on a holiday weekend you should have no problem finding space to bunk."
Walking trails and wildlife: The combination of accessible trails and animal sightings enhances camping experiences. A Chilao Campground visitor reported, "there are easy hiking trails all over & good trees for hanging my hammock. the campsites are very spacious and clean (bathrooms were clean too!)"
What you should know
Campsite restrictions vary widely: Fire regulations can change rapidly based on conditions, particularly in Angeles National Forest. One Coldbrook camper noted, "We camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires."
Insect activity varies by location: Lower elevation campgrounds often have more insect issues. According to a Prado Regional Park visitor, "With the local dairies are more insects than many campgrounds. Can be annoying. Some of the grassy areas have thorny stickers in them."
First-come basis at forest campgrounds: Many Angeles National Forest sites don't take reservations. As one Coldbrook camper explained, "Spots are first come first serve which was perfect for us," making weekday arrivals advantageous for site selection.
Urban noise at valley campgrounds: Road noise affects some campsites closer to population centers. A Coldbrook visitor mentioned, "Biggest con: the loudness of cars driving by on the adjacent road. We were in site 16 and those guys who take their little Hondas or motorcycles through the mountain roads at night broke the serenity of the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Check water status before arrival: At Chilao Campground, water availability can change. A visitor advised, "Water is available but bring your own, there were boil signs everywhere. Clean vault toilets and facilities, very well maintained."
Consider campground layout for kids: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for young children. At China Camp State Park, one parent warned, "The hike up the hill to our walk on spot is rough... they do have bins you can use to carry all your stuff up."
Plan for wildlife encounters: Multiple campgrounds report wildlife activity that may interest or concern children. A Coldbrook visitor shared, "We have camped here a few times. Had an encounter with a bear both times. Lost our marshmellows."
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Mountain campsites experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. A Crystal Lake visitor advised, "There are beautiful views of the mountains. Has bathrooms (no flush). Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it. Has a fire pit at each spot. Has picnic table, but very splintery, bring covers."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing varies dramatically: At urban RV parks near La Puente, site dimensions can be tight. A visitor to Anaheim Harbor RV Park cautioned, "Despite their sites being able to accommodate a 40ft rig their campground is extremely tight and sites may be very difficult to back in if longer than 35ft."
Understand total cost structures: Some RV parks charge beyond the base rate. At Prado Regional Park, facilities require additional payment: "Showers (bring quarters and the cost is $1.00 for @5 minutes)."
Access roads can limit larger rigs: Some canyon campgrounds have challenging access for bigger RVs. Laura M. warned about Chino Hills State Park: "We drove up in our 26ft motorhome and while we made it, I'm not sure that I'd want to make that drive again. It's very narrow and winding, single lane at times, lots of traffic."
Consider weekday visits: Weekend crowding affects RV camping significantly. Dennis B. noted about Bonelli Bluffs: "A little pricey but very nice facility. All hookups 30/50 amp. Cable TV. There's a pool. A tent area. Some spaces monumentally better than others."
