Monterey Park camping provides access to both developed campgrounds and backcountry sites within a one-hour drive. The San Gabriel Mountains offer elevations ranging from 1,200 to 5,700 feet with terrain varying from chaparral to pine forest. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F in lower elevations while winter brings occasional snow at higher altitudes.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: At Bonelli Bluffs, visitors can fish, kayak, and enjoy designated jet ski areas. "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," explains Jessica P.
Hiking extensive trail systems: The Valley Forge Trail Camp connects to multiple backcountry routes. "Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon. 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," notes Kelly B.
Mountain biking: Trails near Gould Mesa Trail Campground attract numerous cyclists. "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," shares Jamie G.
What campers like
Convenient urban proximity: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Monterey Park offer quick access from the city. "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," says Tony C. about Gould Mesa.
Year-round camping options: The climate allows for extended camping seasons. "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. Lots of open spots early Friday but the place was packed Saturday night," notes Jordan R. about Chilao Campground.
Diverse ecosystems: Sites range from lakeshore to mountain forest. "Forage your way through the Valley Forge Trail, for an intimate night in the wilderness at one of its remote camps. For hikers, bikers, and equestrians the trail offers all the views, and the site handles the comforts," explains David F.
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Many streams dry up during summer months. "There is no running water but the creek is usually running so bring something to treat the water," advises tom P. about Gould Mesa. At Valley Forge, "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite... I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer."
Fire restrictions change frequently: Check current regulations before your trip. "Check for fire restrictions and dig your cat holes at least 200 feet from the water. Or bring WAG bags and pack it back out," recommends tom P.
Weekend crowding: Arrive early to secure sites at popular campgrounds. "We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up, when we say the sign for overflow camping near the exit of the Chilao campground loop. We wish we had know about this set-up sooner!" shares Les R.
Tips for camping with families
Consider hiking distance: Several pet-friendly trail camps require moderate hikes to access. "This is a hike in only campground that is secluded and a little spare. 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," explains tom P. about Mount Lowe Trail Campground.
Check toilet facilities: Backcountry campsites often have primitive or non-existent restrooms. "This campground has pit toilets and no running water. If you are in LA and looking for the back-country feel without a long drive, this is just a 3 mile hike or ride up the canyon from Altadena," notes John M.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Evening temperatures drop significantly, even in summer. "If you are there in the evening check out the sunsets through the canyons but make sure you are well insulated as the wind blew hard Saturday night," advises Jordan R.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Only a few campgrounds offer complete RV services. At Dockweiler Beach RV Park, "The RV park has a hookup area and a dry camping area. The hookups are full of large rigs, very close one with another, in a parking lot style. The dry camp provides much more space, but only relatively small RVs," explains Ignasi M.
Beach access with size restrictions: Oceanfront camping has vehicle limitations. "Awesome for RVs but maybe not the best for tent camping. After experiencing both amenities 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," notes Sara H. about Bonelli Bluffs.
Noise considerations: Some RV parks experience environmental noise. "The pros outweighed the cons. We quickly were able to ignore the airplanes and being able to walk out and do my morning yoga on a freshly raked beach was heaven!" shares Darlene M. about Dockweiler Beach.
Legend
