Tent camping opportunities near Pomona, California extend beyond developed campgrounds to several first-come, first-served backcountry sites. The San Gabriel Mountains provide hiking access to camping locations at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations throughout the year. Most trail camps require hiking distances of 2-8 miles to reach, with terrain transitioning from chaparral to pine forests depending on elevation.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Access Millard Falls via a short 0.5-mile hike from Millard Trail Campground, which serves as both a campground and popular trailhead. "About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty. But there are several trails to take for hiking and biking and I saw lots of people doing that," notes a camper.
Mountain biking: Trails surrounding China Camp State Park Campground offer technical terrain for cycling enthusiasts. "This park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin (Tamarancho Boy Scout Camp, for example) but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin," explains Nathaniel S.
Summit hiking: Many trail camps provide access to nearby peaks. "Many trails lead from here. Including a 1.2 mile haunt up to a little peak (Mt Islip)," says Jennifer about Little Jimmy Trail Campground. This higher-elevation camp connects to multiple summit trails including Mount Baden-Powell.
What campers like
Natural water features: The creeks running through many trail camps provide both drinking water (when filtered) and ambient sounds. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, "There is usually a stream for filtering water. Plenty of sites for camping. Usually quiet when not too many people around," according to Stacy C.
Solitude on weekdays: Many campers report having entire campgrounds to themselves midweek. At Manker Campground, "I went on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. There were only 4-6 other campers each night so it was very quiet," shares Michelle W.
Proximity to PCT: Several backcountry sites connect directly to the Pacific Crest Trail. "I hiked in while doing the Pacific crest trail from the south. Great campground with bear lockers and many sites, also nearby spots along the pct. A short walk from little jimmy spring, where you can get water to filter," says Anthony K.
What you should know
Bear activity: Several campgrounds require proper food storage due to wildlife. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, campers note the importance of using provided bear boxes. Anthony K. points out the campground has "toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site. There's a stream nearby the Mount Lowe Summit Trail, also."
Seasonal water sources: Water availability varies dramatically by season. "No water right now but that could change after first rain or snow," warns Anthony K. about Mount Lowe's water source in November. Many streams dry up by late summer, requiring campers to carry all water in.
Fire restrictions: Regulations change frequently based on conditions. "Check on camp fires permitted (last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED)," warns a camper about Mount Lowe. Always check current restrictions before planning to have a campfire.
Tips for camping with families
Start with short hikes: Choose sites with minimal approach distances for first backpacking trips. "Took some friends for their first ever backpacking trip, great intro to the 'experience.' Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon," says Kelly B. about Valley Forge Trail Camp.
Pack for temperature swings: Higher elevation camps can experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. Bring appropriate layers and sleeping gear rated for temperatures 10-15 degrees below forecast.
Choose sites with nearby attractions: Camps with streams, waterfalls or wildlife viewing opportunities keep children engaged. "I am camping with my husband and 3 kids and our puppy. The hosts are friendly, cheap firewood, china beach village is just down the road and perfect to explore and swim," shares Veronica H.
Tips from RVers
No direct RV access: Most tent camping areas near Pomona are accessible only by foot. RVers should establish a base at developed campgrounds further away and plan day trips to trailheads.
Prepare for tight mountain roads: Access roads to many trailheads have limited parking and tight turns. "The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off. If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough," warns Joe R. about reaching Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites.
Consider vehicle limitations: Some access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck it similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc). If both are yes, this place is amazing," explains Nathaniel C.
