Camping near Mount Wilson provides access to diverse terrain in the Angeles National Forest at elevations between 5,500-5,700 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 80°F and cooler fall conditions with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s. Several campgrounds offer yurt accommodations and canvas structures as alternatives to traditional tent camping.
What to do
Hiking with water features: The West Fork Trail Campground provides access to multiple creeks for cooling off during summer months. "A lovely creek runs south-west along the edge of the campground... There is lots of good hiking nearby," notes one visitor to Millard Trail Campground.
Movie location exploration: Malibu Creek State Park contains former film sets accessible via hiking trails. "The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more," reports a camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Coyotes, bobcats and numerous bird species inhabit the area. A visitor to Malibu Creek noted, "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear... On a hike right out of the park a few hundred yards, I came across a pair of bobcats—mom and cub—making their way to a running creek."
What campers like
Panoramic mountain vistas: Site #13 at Little Pine Campground offers particularly good views. "I've stayed here before and love the view it offers. Site #13 feels more secluded than other sites on the campground. Only problem was it's on a slope," reports a visitor.
Convenient beach access: Oceanside camping options provide alternatives to mountain yurt camping near Mount Wilson. "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," writes a camper at Dockweiler Beach RV Park.
Spacious sites with amenities: Campgrounds in the region frequently offer full hookups and comfortable setups. "Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups. We will be back for sure, especially since it's less than an hour from home," notes a visitor to Bonelli Bluffs.
What you should know
High-traffic trail access: Some campgrounds serve as popular trailheads with regular hiker traffic. "This campground is situated at a popular trailhead... But, this is also a high-traffic area on spring and summer weekends," reports a camper at Millard Trail.
Vehicle security concerns: Car break-ins occur at some campgrounds. "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," warns a visitor at Millard Trail Camp.
Fire restrictions: Many areas have seasonal fire bans or specific requirements. A camper at Camp Williams Resort notes, "Port o pities, and restroom, showers, store and even restaurant we like options and you got them we keep going back," but does not mention traditional campfires, which are often restricted.
Tips for camping with families
Short, accessible hikes: Family-friendly trails suit younger hikers. "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," recommends a visitor.
Activities beyond hiking: Some locations offer additional recreation options. "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," reports a visitor to Bonelli Bluffs.
Proximity to supplies: Grocery stores near several campgrounds provide easy access to needed items. "As a bonus, there is a Ralph's just up the street, so you'll never be far from anything you'd need," notes a visitor to Malibu Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Size considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Staff was friendly and place is clean but not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in," cautions a visitor to Fairplex RV Park.
Site selection based on noise: RVers should consider proximity to roads and airports when selecting sites. "You will hear each and every of the planes taking off from LAX, but at one point you don't hear them anymore. It was not really annoying, but that flight at 5a was..." notes a camper at Dockweiler Beach RV Park.
Seasonal RV access: Tent-focused campgrounds may not accommodate larger rigs during certain seasons. A visitor to Soledad Canyon notes, "After experiencing both amenities this place is more or less for RVs... for RVs couldn't be happier plus the people here are nice and friendly."
