Best Tent Camping near Paramount, CA
Several primitive tent camping options exist in the mountains surrounding Paramount, California, primarily in the Angeles National Forest. Tent campsites like Millard Trail Campground, Mount Lowe Trail Camp, and Hoegees Trail Camp offer walk-in sites that require short hikes from parking areas. Most of these campgrounds are located within the San Gabriel Mountains, providing a wilderness experience within an hour's drive from the Los Angeles basin. Valley Forge Trail Camp and Bear Canyon Campground are additional primitive tent locations accessed via hiking trails rather than vehicle roads.
The terrain at these primitive tent setups varies considerably, with most sites situated near creeks or along mountain trails. Many campgrounds provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, though drinking water is rarely available. Bear boxes for food storage are common at sites like Millard Trail Camp, where wildlife activity necessitates proper food storage. Fire restrictions frequently apply during dry seasons, and visitors should check current conditions before planning trips. Most locations are first-come, first-served without reservation systems, making weekday visits preferable for securing tent sites.
Tent campers seeking solitude will find quieter experiences at the hike-in locations that require more effort to reach. The more accessible primitive tent campgrounds like Millard Trail Camp see regular day hikers passing through, which can reduce privacy. Higher elevation camps offer cooler temperatures during summer months when valley temperatures soar. Glenn Trail Camp provides stream access for water (requiring treatment) and fishing opportunities. A review of Spruce Grove Trail Camp noted: "This is a backpackers campground with first come first serve sites, picnic tables and fire rings included. Nice creek flows through the campground." Many trail camps connect to extensive hiking networks, including portions of the Pacific Crest Trail, allowing tent campers to use these locations as basecamp for longer explorations.
