Tent campsites near Mount Wilson, California sit at elevations between 3,000-5,700 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains. The Angeles National Forest campsites experience wide temperature swings with summer days reaching 90°F while dropping to 50°F at night. Winter conditions can include snow at higher elevations, with tent sites often closed from November through April due to weather.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: A 30-minute hike from Millard Trail Campground leads to Millard Falls, accessible via a half-mile trail. "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," notes one camper.
Fish for trout: The West Fork San Gabriel River offers seasonal fishing opportunities near Glenn Trail Camp. "If you're trying to bike_fish_ (it's a thing), this road is lined with fishing platforms for all sorts of trout, as the road follows a river the entire way," explains one visitor who found the area ideal for combining cycling with fishing.
Observe wildlife: Early mornings at Mount Wilson trail camps often provide wildlife viewing opportunities. "I have woke in the morning to deer on several occasions," reports one regular at West Fork Trail Camp. Bear sightings are also common, requiring proper food storage protocols at all sites.
What campers like
Secluded creek settings: Many campers appreciate the water features at Valley Forge Trail Camp, where sites sit alongside seasonal water sources. "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 one reviewer.
Proximity to Los Angeles: Tent campers value these backcountry experiences within reasonable driving distance. "If you're 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," explains a camper at Gould Mesa Trail Camp.
Stargazing opportunities: The elevation and distance from city lights create excellent night sky viewing conditions. "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own hearbeats laying there at night," writes a visitor to Mount Lowe Trail Campground, highlighting the darkness and solitude that allows for stellar stargazing.
What you should know
Security concerns: Vehicle break-ins occur at some trailhead parking areas. "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 Millard Trail Camp visitor.
Weekend crowds: Most tent sites fill quickly Friday through Sunday. "We went in May this year so not much people around. Brand new toilet is nice as well. There was some flowing water still," notes a camper who found Bear Canyon Campground relatively empty by visiting midweek.
Limited privacy: Many trail camps sit along popular hiking paths. "This campground is not a campground if you want to get away from people because there is a lot of people passing by looking at you. You can't really be isolated or have privacy even though it is a campground," explains one visitor to Millard Trail Camp.
Water treatment necessary: All natural water sources require filtration. "The creek was usually running so come prepared with your own water and something to treat the creek water with," advises a camper at Spruce Grove Trail Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Shorter hikes for beginners: Hoegees Trail Camp offers family-friendly access. "You can only access this campground by backpacking in. There's about 12 campsites with picnic benches and fire rings. There's a creek that runs through. It's beautiful and feels completely isolated," notes a visitor, making it ideal for introducing children to backpacking.
Emergency preparedness: Cell phone service is minimal or nonexistent at most sites. "There is an emergency call box and calls phones do not work," points out a Hoegees camper, suggesting families should bring alternative communication devices.
Educational opportunities: Many camps feature historical remnants. "The concrete foundation in the center of the campground was a private cabin which burned down decades ago," explains a Hoegees visitor, providing opportunity for historical discussions with children.
Tips from RVers
No vehicle access: Most Mount Wilson area tent sites cannot accommodate RVs. "This is a hike in only campground that is secluded and a little spare," explains a Mount Lowe visitor, clarifying that RVs must be left at designated parking areas.
Alternative options: RV campers should consider established campgrounds in lower elevations of Angeles National Forest instead of the tent-only backcountry sites near Mount Wilson. "Once past that gate, you'll soon hit another, this one closed to all motorized vehicles," warns a frustrated visitor who attempted to reach Mount Lowe Campground with a vehicle.
