Angeles National Forest tent camping near Lakewood, California offers hiking access to primitive sites between 2,000-5,000 feet elevation. Most trail camps remain open year-round, though seasonal closures occur after wildfires or during extreme fire danger periods. Campsites typically sit along creek beds that provide both water sources and natural boundaries between sites.
What to do
Explore mountain biking trails: At China Camp State Park Campground, visitors can access numerous trails designated for cyclists. "This park is extremely popular with mountain bikers... So China Camp won't disappoint even if it's not the most epic biking in the area. The trail running and hiking is great too," notes Nathaniel S.
Fish in seasonal streams: The route to Glenn Trail Camp Campground offers fishing opportunities along the creek. "If you're trying to bike_fish_ (it's a thing), this road is lined with fishing platforms for all sorts of trout, as the road follows a river the entire way," says Kevin L.
Cool off in waterfalls: Several trail camps offer waterfall access for summer cooling. "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," shares a camper about Millard Trail Camp.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many campers appreciate sites situated along flowing water. At Bear Canyon Campground, one reviewer notes, "Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end. Trail tends to get iffy at points, but you kinda get to know the flow of it if it disappears into rocks or the creek."
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites. "This walk-in campground is part of China Camp State Park. Only 33 tent-only sites! Wheeled totes can be borrowed to haul your gear up some little hills to your campsite under oak and bay trees," reports Laura F.
Wildlife viewing: The mountains near Lakewood offer diverse animal encounters. "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds)," notes Tim J. about his camping experience.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary: Always check current fire regulations before planning tent camping near Lakewood. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, campers find established fire rings, but regulations change seasonally: "There's 6 trailside campsites with grills, pit toilets and great privacy."
Water treatment required: Streams provide water but require purification. "There is no running water but the creek is usually running so bring something to treat the water," advises one camper about Gould Mesa Trail Camp.
Wildlife precautions: Food storage is essential for safety. "There are raccoons here so you can't keep any food out when dark comes near!" warns Veronica H., while another camper notes, "Each site has a picnic bench and a food storage box."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Some locations offer accessible introductions to backpacking. Hoegees Trail Camp Campground provides an ideal setting: "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," says Morgan F.
Creek crossings: Parents should prepare for water crossings on many trails. "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite," notes one camper about seasonal conditions.
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer historical features. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, visitors find "info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," providing educational value for family trips.
Tips from RVers
No RV access: The trail camps near Lakewood are accessible only by hiking or biking, not suitable for RVs. "This is more of your traditional campground where you must carry all your food and gear to the campsite. It is a short hike from the parking lot to the camping area and the camp hosts can provide containers to carry your items," explains Tim J.
Parking limitations: RV travelers need alternative accommodations and must park at trailheads with day-use restrictions. A camper notes about Spruce Grove Trail Campground: "This is a backpackers campground. First come first serve, picnic tables and fire rings included."
