Horse Flats Campground sits at 5,000 feet elevation in Angeles National Forest, about an hour from Los Angeles. The campground remains accessible most of the year but can close during winter storms. Sites range from $12-15 per night, and the area contains multiple camping clusters arranged in groups of 2-4 sites each.
What to do
Bouldering at Horse Flats: Several climbing areas are within walking distance of the campground. "Nice place to stay for climbing - there is mostly bouldering in the area, with some trad stuff. Plenty of sites!" notes Kathleen L. about Horse Flats Campground.
Hike to historic sites: Take a day hike from Horse Flats to connect with nearby landmarks. "Hike the Pacific Crest Trail to historic Glenwood Cabin. Here is the route I mapped out if you want to pick up the trail near Bandido campground," suggests Les R.
Follow creek trails: At Bear Canyon Campground, hikers can access multiple water features. "Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end. Trail tends to get iffy at points, but you kinda get to know the flow of it if it disappears into rocks or the creek," explains Shannon E.
What campers like
Higher elevations for summer camping: Temperatures drop significantly at higher elevations compared to Pasadena. "We come to this campground throughout the year, and it's one of our favorite spots for summer camping when we're short on time. It's an hours drive from LA and because the campground is at elevation it stays cooler during the hot months," explains Les R. about Horse Flats.
Secluded spots away from crowds: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. "No individual campsites. They're set up in groups 2, 3 or 4 But it's probably never a problem as this place doesn't seem to get lots of visitors," notes Luissimo M.
Year-round stream access: Musch Trail Camp in Topanga State Park offers easy access with basic amenities. "Musch Camp is an easy one mile hike from the Trippet Ranch Parking Lot in Topanga State Park... The campground has around 6 campsites in two sections surrounded by fencing. Each site has a picnic table," reports Erik M.
What you should know
No water available at some sites: Plan to bring all water needed for your stay at certain campgrounds. "Bring all your water with you. There is no running water at this campground," advises Les R. about Horse Flats Campground.
Insects can be problematic: Prepare for bugs, especially during warmer months. "Bring some bug spray if you're bugged by bugs. Other than that there was plenty of space for plenty of campers," notes Josh F.
Limited cell service: Most forest campgrounds have poor or no reception. "Make sure you have enough gas and have a map/driving directions ready, because there is no cell phone service," warns a camper about the drive to Horse Flats.
Some backcountry sites require preparation: At Bear Canyon Campground, be ready for primitive conditions. "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire," explains William K.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed parks with facilities: O'Neill Regional Park offers family-friendly amenities. "If you're looking for primitive dispersed camping, this is probably not your spot. If you're camping with kids, it doesn't get much better than this! Clean facilities, flushing toilets and hot showers, well maintained sites... Great playground for children. Easy and fun 'Story Trail' hike for children," shares Johnny G.
Consider shorter hike-in options: Some camps are accessible with minimal hiking. "The cost is $7 per person per night. You can pay at the Entrance Station at the Trippet Ranch Parking Lot or the Iron Ranger at the camp," notes Erik M. about Musch Trail Camp.
Look for educational trails: Parks near Pasadena often include interpretive elements. "Nice creek for kids to explore... Great 'Story Trail' hike for children. The hike features a new book every month, each page is mounted to a placard along the trail," describes Johnny G.
Tips from RVers
Check site arrangements at horse-friendly campgrounds: At Tapo Canyon Park, sites accommodate larger vehicles. "Nice area for RVing. Good size campsites. Full hookups, Public Restrooms and nice playground area. There is a camp host on site and the Ranger makes at least a daily visit," notes Larry B.
Plan for limited cell service: Some RV parks near Angeles National Forest have connectivity issues. "No Wi-Fi here and as best we could tell, no cellular signal for any provider," reports Bower about Tapo Canyon Park.
Consider elevation when choosing routes: The mountain roads to equestrian camping sites can be challenging. "The drive from the base of the mountain to this campground is about 45 minutes," mentions a Horse Flats camper, highlighting the importance of planning your route carefully.
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