Camping sites near Monterey Park, California range from backcountry trail camps in Angeles National Forest to oceanfront RV parks. The area sits at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains with elevations from 400 feet in Monterey Park to over 5,000 feet at higher campgrounds. Winter temperatures at lower elevations typically remain above 40°F while summer camping can require early morning starts to avoid afternoon temperatures above 95°F.
What to do
Horseback riding and water recreation: Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park offers numerous recreational activities beyond standard camping. According to Jessica P., "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more."
Waterfall hikes: Several short waterfall hikes start near Millard Trail Campground. Jeff B. notes, "Nice campground, active stream in the middle of summer. Waterfall 30 minutes hike upstream." The waterfall trail remains shaded even during hot summer days.
Mountain biking and running trails: The network of trails near Gould Mesa Trail Campground attracts cyclists and runners. One camper observed, "There were a dozen or so mountain bikers and about the same amount of hikers runners that venture by the campground throughout the day. Not enough to really ruin the experience, just enough to notice them there."
What campers like
Trail camp seclusion: Trail camps like Hoegees offer primitive camping with basic amenities and natural surroundings. Anthony K. reports, "I camped here a couple wks ago & it was great. You feel deep in the forest & there are plenty of spots, fire pits & flat top stoves." Many campers appreciate the isolation despite proximity to urban areas.
Beach camping with city views: Dockweiler Beach RV Park provides oceanfront camping with urban proximity. Ignasi M. shares, "The park is right next to the beach, walk 1 minute and you're there. There's also a bike path that goes for miles both north or south - great for an early workout."
Overnight city escapes: Many campsites function as quick getaways rather than destination camping. Jordan R. commented about Chilao Campground, "The wife and I wanted to get away but had to be close enough to get home in a hurry. Drove up on Friday morning and had a wonderful weekend." Sites often fill quickly on weekends.
What you should know
Car break-ins at trailheads: Parking safety varies at trail camp access points. At Millard Trail Campground, Mathew H. 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."
Seasonal water sources: Creeks that supply water for filtering may dry up in late summer. A visitor to Mount Lowe Trail Campground noted, "There's no water right now but that could change after first rain or snow." Always check recent conditions.
Noise factors: Urban proximity brings noise issues to many campgrounds. At Dockweiler Beach, several campers mention airport noise from LAX. PJ M. reports, "Expected noise from road and airport but you can still hear the ocean, super lively/loud beach on weekend, very chill weekdays."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: For first-time backpackers with kids, Jamie G. recommends Gould Mesa: "Scoped it out a few weeks ago and thought it was an easy enough hike for a beginner (me) and his pal camp at... Close to LA. This is about a 15 minute drive then 30 minute hike from my house."
Short hiking options: When camping with children, look for sites with accessible trails. At Bonelli Bluffs, Tristan H. mentions it's "Great place to stop and watch the bread float." Many campsites have short nature loops suitable for young explorers.
Overflow camping alternatives: During peak seasons when campgrounds fill, look for overflow areas. At Spruce Grove Trail Camp, group camping works well for families. Amanda K. shares, "Great spot with beautiful hikes! We were there with a larger group for a scout trip and it was great. Lots of room for our tents."
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: At Bonelli Bluffs, site quality varies significantly. Dennis B. advises, "Some spaces monumentally better than others. Occasionally they run a special. There's good hiking and bike riding and fishing. They have a pool."
Beach parking considerations: For RVers at Dockweiler Beach, there are separate sections for different camping styles. PJ M. notes, "Review of dry campervan section of park only, which seemed considerably more quiet and less chaotic than the big RV area... Best sites are 125-128."
Tent camping challenges: Not all RV parks accommodate tent camping well. At Bonelli Bluffs, Sara H. cautions, "This place is more or less for RVs and 4/10 as for they do have the tent camping on the steep incline and not too many sites but for RVs couldn't be happier."
