Tent camping in La Verne, California sits at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, with most sites positioned between 3,000-8,000 feet elevation. Summer daytime temperatures at higher elevation campgrounds range 15-20 degrees cooler than La Verne proper, providing relief during hot months. Trail-accessible campsites typically require 2-5 mile hikes with moderate elevation gain to reach designated camping areas.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Millard Trail Campground provides access to a waterfall just 30 minutes upstream. "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 and the creek kept our dogs cool as they would jump in and out of the small pools," notes Chris O.
Mountain biking trails: The San Gabriel Mountains offer extensive biking routes accessible from several campgrounds. The terrain varies from moderate to challenging with limited shade on exposed sections. Trails connect many backcountry sites, allowing multi-day exploration opportunities between established campsites.
Summit climbs: For more experienced hikers, Little Jimmy Trail Campground serves as an excellent base for peak bagging. "There's a 1.2 mile haunt up to a little peak (Mt Islip)," writes Jennifer D., while another camper notes its location is "close to mount baden Powell, mount Williamson & mount islip."
What campers like
Creek access: Many campers appreciate the waterways running through or near Angeles National Forest campgrounds. At Glenn Trail Camp Campground, Andrew G. notes: "very nice sites with tables bbqs and fire rings. No running water though, unless you count the creek thats no more than 50 yards away for the sites."
Midweek solitude: Weekday camping offers significantly quieter experiences at most sites. "I went on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. There were only 4-6 other campers each night so it was very quiet," reports Michelle W. about Manker Campground.
Backcountry convenience: At Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, campers enjoy wilderness without extreme remoteness. "You can only access this campground by backpacking in. There's about 12 campsites with picnic benches and fire rings. There's a creek that runs through. It's beautiful and feels completely isolated," writes Morgan F.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary significantly by season and location. At Millard Trail Camp, one camper noted in 2021: "The fire ban has been lifted so you can have a fire. Each fire pit had wood left at it so you didn't have to go searching for campfirewood."
Water access: Most backcountry campgrounds require filtering stream water. "The only water available coming from the stream, if any," notes Tom P. about one campground. Bring reliable filtration systems since creek flow varies seasonally.
Vehicle considerations: Many tent camping options near La Verne require leaving vehicles at designated trailheads. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, access requires understanding road closures: "drove all the way to the turn in to find the road was closed," warns Bryce C., highlighting the importance of checking current access conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Short backpacking routes: Several family-friendly tent sites require minimal hiking distance. "This campground is a very short drive from Pasadena, CA... Parking is about 150 yards away, down a hill, so be prepared to haul your gear," notes K B. about Millard Trail Camp, making it accessible for younger children.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings with proper food storage. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, multiple reviews mention regular wildlife activity, with one camper finding what appeared to be "vertebrae next to the table, might have been a deer."
Beach alternatives: For families seeking water play without difficult hikes, China Camp State Park offers beach access. "China Camp was a Chinese shrimp fishing community. You can hike there from the campground (8 miles round trip) and see spectacular views of the bay and its marshlands," writes Laura F., though she cautions the water is "Brr" cold.
Tips for RVers
Limited options: The tent camping focus near La Verne means very few RV-accessible campgrounds exist within 30 minutes of town. Manker Campground accommodates some smaller motorhomes but lacks hookups of any kind.
Overnight parking challenges: Several reviews mention security concerns at trailhead parking areas. "WARNING: 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," advises Mathew H., important for those leaving vehicles overnight at trailheads.
