Pomona camping options extend beyond the immediate city area into the nearby Angeles National Forest, where elevations range from 1,200 to 6,000 feet. The diverse terrain creates different microclimates, with mountain campgrounds often 10-15 degrees cooler than valley locations. Most campgrounds in this region don't accept reservations during winter months, switching to first-come, first-served from November through March.
What to do
Horseback riding at San Dimas: This activity is accessible near Bonelli Bluffs, just 2 miles from Pomona. "I brought my horses one time and it was amazing the best time of my life. I will provide some photos. The views are incredible," shares Jessica P. The trails accommodate riders of various skill levels.
Mountain biking at Chino Hills: The 14,000-acre state park offers trails for all skill levels, with designated biking routes throughout. According to Cris B. from Rolling M. Ranch Campground, "The trails are varied, accessible by horseback, hiking, biking. Some trails are ready walking, some very strenuous."
Fishing near Azusa: Head to Crystal Lake Recreation Area, 18 miles from Pomona. Though the lake has experienced low water levels, nearby streams offer alternatives. "There are lots of spacious camping sites, clean bathrooms, running water, numerous shade trees, and a cafe/store for all the things you forgot or for an ice cream treat on a hot day!" explains Chris B.
Wildlife viewing in Angeles Forest: Table Mountain Campground sits at higher elevation, offering bird watching and deer sightings. A camper notes, "There is a lodge open right next to the campground if you wanted to eat out for a lunch or dinner!" These higher elevations provide cooler temperatures and different wildlife habitats.
What campers like
Secluded spots for privacy: At Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, the campground layout offers more solitude than other local options. "This campground is HUGE and many locations are rather secluded so unless you go on a holiday weekend you should have no problem finding space to bunk," notes Salem L., highlighting an important contrast to more crowded options.
Cooler temperatures at higher elevations: Buckhorn Campground sits above 6,000 feet, providing relief from summer heat. One camper describes it as "Beautiful campground. A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees," adding that it's "a great little getaway" with "no traffic and not a lot of people in this area."
Quick access from urban areas: Many campgrounds are surprisingly close to town while feeling remote. A camper at Chino Hills State Park notes, "This state park has 14,000 acres. It feels secluded, but the city is only 20 minutes away." This accessibility makes weekend trips practical for Pomona residents.
Clean facilities: Table Mountain earns praise for maintenance: "Toilets were clean, fully stocked. Water pipe was useful. Each site has a bear locker, picnic table and fire ring." These amenities make camping more comfortable, especially for newcomers to outdoor recreation.
What you should know
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Forest areas often implement fire bans during dry months. At Coldbrook Campground, a visitor notes, "We camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires." Always check current restrictions before departure.
Wildlife encounters require preparation: Several campgrounds report bear sightings. One camper at Crystal Lake mentions, "We have camped here a few times. Had an encounter with a bear both times. Lost our marshmallows." Proper food storage is essential.
Insect activity varies by location: At Coldbrook, one camper warns, "Lots of gnats! They swarm your face but then after you sit still for about a minute they leave you alone." Near dairy areas, campers report more flies during summer months.
Weekend crowding impacts experience: First-come campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. At Buckhorn, a reviewer advises, "The campground fills quickly for the weekend. It's a first come/first serve so get there early." Arriving Thursday or early Friday morning improves site selection chances.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with splash pads: During hot months, water features help keep children comfortable. At Prado Regional Park, a visitor mentions the "playground and splash pad kept the youngins entertained" - a useful amenity not available at all campgrounds.
Avoid sites near main roads: For family camping, road noise can disrupt sleep. At Table Mountain, one camper notes, "We got site 41 as a first come first serve site. It was in the main road in/out so we had some traffic." Request sites away from entrance roads when possible.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain areas experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. Bring layers for evening when temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees from daytime highs, particularly at higher elevation campgrounds.
Consider tent placement carefully: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Table Mountain, a camper warns, "Some sites don't have a ton of flat space if you have a great view!" Arrive early enough to select a site with adequate flat space for your tent.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit mountain access: Larger RVs face challenges on mountain roads. At China Camp State Park, a camper with a 26-foot motorhome reports, "It's very narrow and winding, single lane at times, lots of traffic, and so lots of backing up and negotiating around other cars in the narrower sections." RVs over 24 feet should avoid certain mountain campgrounds.
Check dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer this service. Bonelli Bluffs and Prado Regional Park provide sanitary dumps, while most forest campgrounds don't, requiring planning for longer stays.
Electrical needs vary by season: During summer, solar setups work well at non-hookup sites. A camper at China Camp notes, "There's no hookups at any of the campsites so come prepared with your solar power and you'll have more than you need in this sunny part of the world."
Leveling challenges at mountain sites: Many mountain campgrounds have sloped sites. A reviewer at Table Mountain mentions, "The ground is a little slanted in most of the sites but not enough that it's not tolerable." Bring extra leveling blocks for mountain camping.
