Mount Baldy sits at 10,064 feet elevation, making it one of the highest peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains. Camping near Mount Baldy, California provides access to pine forests, hiking trails, and mountain streams at elevations ranging from 4,000-7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F while winter brings snow and freezing conditions, often closing many facilities from November through April.
What to do
Hiking from campsites: Table Mountain Campground offers direct access to hiking trails with excellent views. "There are a couple of trails right from the campground too. Also there is a lodge open right next to the campground if you wanted to eat out for a lunch or dinner!" according to Amy B. from Table Mountain Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Forest G. from Crystal Lake Recreation Area reports, "ANIMALS SEEN: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds." Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting, particularly in early morning.
Water activities: Bonelli Bluffs provides multiple water recreation options. Jessica P. notes, "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."
Creek exploration: Many campgrounds feature small streams or creeks for cooling off in hot weather. At Coldbrook Campground, campers enjoy setting up near the water. "We had a campsite next to the creek and it was beautiful to see and listen to," writes Alexis S.
What campers like
High elevation cooling: Buckhorn Campground sits at over 6,000 feet, providing relief from summer heat. Campers appreciate the temperature difference from the Los Angeles basin. One visitor notes, "Beautiful campground. A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees... A stream runs through the campground in the spring."
Quick access from urban areas: Many campers value the short drive time from Los Angeles. "We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5!" writes Forest G. about Coldbrook Campground, making it ideal for weekend getaways.
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking solitude, midweek camping offers less crowded conditions. Michelle W. at Manker Campground shares, "I went on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. There were only 4-6 other campers each night so it was very quiet."
Stream sounds for sleeping: Creek-side sites provide natural white noise. At Coldbrook Campground, Trisha P. comments, "This is right up hwy 39, which is a quick getaway for us to do a 1 night trip. We absolutely love this place."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many Angeles National Forest campgrounds prohibit fires during high fire danger periods. Coldbrook Campground visitor Craig M. warns, "No flame of any sort allowed including gas stoves."
Limited cell service: Most Mount Baldy area campgrounds have no cellular coverage. Michelle W. reports from Manker Campground, "No AT&T service. Only one car per campsite."
Weekend crowding: First-come campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. Lauralyn J. from Buckhorn Campground advises, "The campground fills quickly for the weekend. It's a first come/first serve so get there early."
Bear presence: Bears frequent certain campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. Kat M. warns, "We have camped here a few times. Had an encounter with a bear both times. Lost our marshmellows."
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs across campgrounds. Lizzie B. notes about Coldbrook, "Toilets were clean, site was clean for the most part," while others report less favorable conditions at busier locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Bonita Ranch Campground offers easy access to water play. Jonathan G. shares, "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away. We also lucked out finding berries in August."
Insect protection: Bug spray is essential at most Mount Baldy area campgrounds. Katarina A. from Crystal Lake Recreation Area notes, "There are beautiful views of the mountains. Has bathrooms (no flush). Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it."
Camping with pets: Many campgrounds welcome dogs but have specific rules. Heather L. reports about Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around... Dog friendly and the cafe isn't cheap but I swear has the nicest people and the best cocoa."
Adventure passes: Most developed campgrounds in Angeles National Forest require an Adventure Pass for parking. Mercy M. reports, "It was $17 per night, and was an easy & beautiful drive up the mountain."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs face access challenges on mountain roads. At Buckhorn Campground, Lauralyn J. cautions, "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended."
Full hookup options: Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area offers complete RV services. Bower notes, "We stayed in campsite 108 (which had full hookups) and did not feel that the campsites were too close to one another."
Electric service: Several campgrounds near Mount Baldy offer electric hookups. Dennis B. from Bonelli Bluffs writes, "A little pricey but very nice facility. All hookups 30/50 amp. Cable TV. There's a pool."
Level sites: Finding level parking can be challenging in mountain campgrounds. Aostara K. appreciated at Bonelli Bluffs, "Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups."
