Camping spots near Mount Wilson, California range in elevation from approximately 3,000 to 7,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the San Gabriel Mountains. Mount Wilson itself sits at 5,710 feet, surrounded by pine forests with several campgrounds operating primarily from April through November. Winter closures affect many of the higher elevation sites due to snow conditions, while summer brings temperatures ranging from 45-85°F depending on elevation.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 30 minutes or less from several campgrounds. At Coldbrook Campground, one visitor noted "There's a nice waterfall trail which will be 2.5 in & 2.5 miles back." The area features several accessible water features, particularly during spring months.
Mountain biking: Popular on fire roads throughout Angeles National Forest. Many trails connect multiple campgrounds. "There is a recreational area 20 minutes down the mountain on the lake," mentioned a camper at Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, where multiple trail systems connect.
Bird watching: Dawn hours recommended for best viewing. "Good bird-watching in the morning. Stream and faucets nearby," noted one visitor at Coldbrook. Many campers report seeing Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, and ravens throughout the area.
Wildlife spotting: Common sightings at dawn and dusk. "Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds," listed one camper at Crystal Lake, giving a sense of the biodiversity around Mount Wilson.
What campers like
Seclusion despite proximity to LA: Many campers appreciate the forest setting just a short drive from urban areas. "So close to LA yet so far away," wrote one Monte Cristo Campground visitor. Another camper at Buckhorn Campground noted, "We found this gem, just 1 1/2hrs from LA and you'd never know you were anywhere near the city."
Temperature relief: The elevation provides natural air conditioning. "We love to travel and camp but can't always carve out the time for a long drive out of LA... amazingly quiet space, so tranquil and an absolute perfect temperature in August during the day and night," reported a Buckhorn camper.
Campsite privacy: Many sites offer good separation. At Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground, "Each camp sites is pretty well secluded from others, high desert, shrubs and some trees, was able to hang my hammock at site," according to one reviewer. Another noted, "Out of 83 sights, divided on 2 loops, only a few were shared parking with another vehicle but seemed like they would be good for larger groups."
Stream access: Flowing water adds to the camping experience. "There is a great little creek that runs through the campground," wrote one Coldbrook visitor, while a Monte Cristo camper mentioned "a creek that runs thru seasonally" – though availability depends on recent rainfall.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Rules change based on conditions and location. A visitor to Mount Lowe Trail Campground warned, "Check on camp fires permitted (last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED)." Always check current regulations before arrival.
Wildlife requires proper precautions: Bears are active throughout the region. "A bear was on our stuff the first night. I whistled and it ran away. In the morning today, we seen another, casually walking into the grounds," reported a Monte Cristo camper. Food storage containers are required at most sites.
Weekend crowding: Many campgrounds fill quickly Friday-Sunday. "The only negative is the loudness of cars driving by on the adjacent road," noted one Coldbrook camper. Another visitor to Buckhorn advised, "It is however very popular, you need to get there early to get a good spot."
Water availability changes: Water systems undergo maintenance and seasonal shutdowns. "Drove up Saturday morning and was able to pick our ideal site. Has some great views. No running water," stated a Chilao visitor. Always bring backup water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking trails: Multiple family-friendly options available. "There are easy hiking trails all over & good trees for hanging my hammock," shared a Chilao visitor. "Fun little campground with decent facilities and beautiful surroundings. Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups," wrote a reviewer about Millard Trail Campground.
Shade considerations: Some campgrounds offer better coverage than others. "Get there early to get a spot with shade...we arrived in the late afternoon and the only spots had zero shade. It was so hot!!" cautioned a Chilao visitor. Research site maps before arrival to identify shadier spots.
Bug protection: Necessary, especially in summer months. "Lots of gnats! They swarm your face but then after you sit still for about a minute they leave you alone," reported a Coldbrook visitor who added, "I didn't have any bug spray with me. My mistake that hopefully you won't repeat."
Site selection for families: Some campgrounds have better layouts for groups. At Buckhorn, "9-10-11 are the best ones with shade together, they have a campfire circle big enough for 10+," advised one reviewer. Most campgrounds offer sites with picnic tables.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds limit RV length. "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended," advised a Buckhorn visitor. Monte Cristo can accommodate slightly larger units as one RVer noted, "I pulled a 26 TT. I came in from the La side of the mountains and found it's easier to go in from Palmdale with a rv or tt."
Road conditions: Access routes can be challenging. "The road closest to our site was washed away... so a long jog or drive around the perimeter to get us to the pool, laundry and hot tub," reported one RVer. Forest roads may not be regularly maintained after storms.
Limited hookup options: Most forest service campgrounds lack services. Chilao offers water hookups but many others, including Monte Cristo, only have water spigots. "No water at sites but they have water. No service. If your hauling anything longer then 20 ft. Try for site 11," recommended a Monte Cristo visitor.
Level sites vary: Finding flat parking can be challenging. "It's set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2," noted a Buckhorn visitor, highlighting how terrain affects site quality. Always bring leveling blocks.
