Tent camping near Los Alamitos, California often requires longer hiking distances than the 2-3 miles mentioned for accessible sites. Many trails to these remote campgrounds range from 6-8 miles one-way, with significant elevation changes. Winter weather can affect accessibility, with several campgrounds closing temporarily due to fire damage or seasonal conditions between November and April.
What to do
Creek exploration and fishing: Valley Forge Trail Camp offers opportunities along the West Fork San Gabriel River, where campers can filter water for drinking. One visitor noted, "If you plan on leaving your vehicle at one of the developed recreation sites while your on your hike be sure to have an Adventure Pass."
Mountain biking to campsites: Glenn Trail Camp Campground offers a unique bikepacking opportunity with a paved access road. "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," explains one reviewer.
Waterfall hiking: Several tent campgrounds provide access to seasonal waterfalls. Millard Trail Campground features "a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups" according to a camper. The falls are most impressive during winter and spring months when rainfall is higher.
Stargazing: Two Harbors Campground on Catalina Island offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. A camper reported, "Stargazing was prime as well since there are virtually no lights in Two Harbors."
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: For the best tent camping near Los Alamitos, California, many campers appreciate the sense of isolation while remaining accessible. "Hoegees Trail Camp Campground is 2 miles hike from Chantry Flats by way of the Lower Winter Creek Trail. This facility has 15 campsites, each with table, fire ring and wood-burning stove," explains a reviewer.
Wildlife encounters: Many backcountry campsites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At China Camp State Park Campground, one camper experienced "plenty of wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds)." Another mentioned, "This is a short hike from the parking lot to the camping area and the camp hosts can provide containers to carry your items."
Year-round access: Several campgrounds remain open throughout winter months, though trail conditions vary. A visitor to Mount Lowe Trail Campground reported, "New outhouse built within the last year. There's no water right now but that could change after first rain or snow."
Free camping options: Multiple tent campgrounds near Los Alamitos don't charge camping fees. One camper at Valley Forge Trail Camp mentioned, "Campgrounds are spread out well giving each site plenty of space. We filtered water from the 'river' - seemed like a creek to me."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans affect most backcountry campgrounds. A Spruce Grove Trail Campground visitor advises, "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."
Water availability: Streams near campgrounds may be seasonal. "The campground was not busy and this allowed me to pick a spot hidden away from others. There are restrooms and a place to get water, but when I was there the showers were closed," notes a China Camp visitor.
High hiker traffic: Many tent campgrounds serve as way points on popular trails. "This place is heavily used for day camping and hiking. There's not a lot of privacy because there's always lots of people passing by who are hiking and biking," explains a Millard Trail Campground reviewer.
Limited facilities: Mount Lowe Trail Campground provides minimal amenities. "It has no running water but it does have facilities and tables (first come, first serve). Fantastic views on a clear day and quite a few hikers pass through here on the weekend," reports a camper.
Security concerns: Vehicle break-ins occur at some trailheads. A Millard Trail Campground visitor warns, "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
Choose shorter trails: Gould Mesa Trail Campground offers family-friendly access. "It's a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos. It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings," advises a camper.
Prepare for varying temperatures: Temperatures in Angeles National Forest can drop significantly at night, even in summer. Pack layers for children, as elevation changes affect comfort levels throughout the camping areas.
Wildlife precautions: Most backcountry sites require proper food storage. "It is important to keep all of your food and anything with any kind of smell in the bear boxes," notes a Millard Trail visitor who mentioned hearing animals outside their tent at night.
Reserve early for accessible sites: For car camping options like Doheny State Beach, plan ahead. "Super nice but book early!" advises a visitor who brought "a big crew along for spring break."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Los Alamitos requires hiking in with gear, but Doheny State Beach Campground accommodates RVs without hookups. "Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available. Great sunsets and beautiful sand," reports an RVer.
Dump station information: RV facilities can be unpredictable. At Doheny, "There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine. There's a hose there to use for clean up or flushing tank. Dump site is narrow so watch your sides," explains a camper.
Water fill considerations: When planning tent camping trips near Los Alamitos that might accommodate smaller RVs, know where to find water. "Hand carrying potable water is available by bathrooms. And RV tank filling also available at the same location of dump site only a few feet away as you drive out," notes a Doheny visitor.
