Angeles National Forest provides several dog-friendly hiking trails near Monrovia that connect to primitive campgrounds. Located at elevations between 3,000 and 6,000 feet, these trail camps offer cooler temperatures than the nearby urban areas. During spring and early summer, the melting snow feeds creeks that run through many of these campsites, creating ideal conditions for camping with pets.
What to do
Hike along multiple trails: The Valley Forge Trail Camp connects to several hiking paths with creek access. "There's 6 trailside campsites with grills, pit toilets and great privacy," notes Kelly B. about Valley Forge Trail Camp, adding that "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green owasis of a meadow."
Filter water from streams: Most primitive campsites near Monrovia don't have potable water. At Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, Anthony K. notes that "Winter Creek was flowing well," making it possible to filter water. Remember that all water from natural sources must be treated before consumption.
Overnight backpacking trip: The trail to Spruce Grove makes an excellent short backpacking trip. "This is a backpackers campground. First come first serve, picnic tables and fire rings included. I think there is only about 8-10 sites. Nice creek flows though the campground," writes Brittany N. about Spruce Grove Trail Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Chilao Campground. "The campsites are nicely spaced and there is plenty of shade," says Morgan F. Chilao Campground has "plenty of room to make you feel like your alone," according to Hanns B.
Easy access from Los Angeles: The proximity to urban areas makes these campgrounds convenient for weekend trips. "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around," writes Salem L. about Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, noting that "unless you go on a holiday weekend you should have no problem finding space to bunk."
Cooler temperatures: Buckhorn Campground sits at over 6,000 feet elevation. "Beautiful campground. A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees," writes Lauralyn J., adding that it's "a great little getaway" with "no traffic and not a lot of people in this area."
What you should know
First-come, first-served sites: Most campgrounds in this area don't take reservations. "We reserved our campground in the early afternoon on Friday, expecting it to be busy as usual. There were plenty of spots though, much less crowded than during the summer months," notes Les R. about Chilao Campground.
Limited cell service: Don't count on having cell phone reception while camping near Monrovia. "Cell phones typically don't work in these canyon areas," but some campgrounds have emergency call boxes for safety.
Bear activity: The Angeles National Forest has black bears. Forest G. reported seeing "Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds" while staying at Crystal Lake Recreation Area. When camping with pets, keep food stored properly and maintain clean campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Consider shorter hikes: For families with young children, Buckhorn Campground offers drive-in camping with nearby trails. Meghan W. notes it's "set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."
Pack bug spray: Insects can be abundant, especially near water sources. "There are beautiful views of the mountains. Has bathrooms (no flush). Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it," advises Katarina A. about Crystal Lake Recreation Area.
Try drive-up camping first: For families new to camping with dogs, drive-in sites might be easier than backpacking. "This place is lovely and a well designed campground. It is however very popular, you need to get there early to get a good spot," advises Meghan W. about Buckhorn Campground.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV access: Most primitive campgrounds near Monrovia aren't suitable for RVs, but a few options exist. "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended," notes Lauralyn J. about Little Pine Campground.
Consider Bonelli Bluffs for full hookups: For RVers wanting amenities, Bonelli Bluffs in San Dimas (about 15 miles from Monrovia) offers full hookups. "We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet... Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups," reports Aostara K.
Check road conditions: Forest roads can be challenging for RVs. "Only plus each site have full hookups and sewer," mentions Michael S. about Bonelli Bluffs, making it a better option for RVers than the primitive campgrounds closer to Monrovia.
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