Trail camps in the San Gabriel Mountains provide primitive tent camping opportunities near Rowland Heights. Most sites require a hike of 2-8 miles to access and sit at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet. Seasonal water sources flow strongest from winter through early summer, with many streams drying up by late August, requiring campers to bring their own water during dry periods.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Access Millard Falls via a short half-mile trail from Millard Trail Camp. "Me and my girlfriend decided to go on this trail with our two doggos on a hot 95 degree day and we had such a good time the waterfall trail is nothing but shade provided by the trees foliage and the creek kept our dogs cool," reports one visitor.
Mountain biking: Trails near China Camp State Park offer excellent riding opportunities. "This park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin. So China Camp won't disappoint," explains one reviewer who recommends bringing "shoes suitable for hiking and trail running" as well.
Fishing access: Several creeks with trout fishing run through these mountain campgrounds. One camper at Glenn Trail Camp mentioned, "This is a hike-in/bike-in campground... Don't forget to strap a pole to your pack if you want to catch some dinner. This area is native to good trout fishin'."
What campers like
Isolation despite proximity: Most tent campers appreciate the sense of remoteness. At Spruce Grove Trail Camp, "Beyond the falls, the trail takes on a greater feeling of wilderness immersion. This section of Gabrielino Trail gets less foot traffic, making it a great retreat for those times when you need to feel far from LA."
Seasonal water sounds: Creek access enhances many sites. "There is a creek that runs through. It's beautiful and feels completely isolated," according to a reviewer of Hoegees Trail Camp. Similarly, at Valley Forge Trail Camp, campers enjoy "crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green oasis of a meadow."
Wildlife viewing: Animals frequently visit campsites. "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, and birds)," notes one China Camp visitor. Another camper reported, "A coyote walked right by us. Brave raccoons."
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary: Many trail camps have fire rings or stoves, but restrictions change seasonally. At Mount Lowe Trail Camp, a camper warned, "Check on camp fires permitted (last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED)." Always check current fire regulations before your trip.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites have basic amenities. "The sites are a little spare but well maintained and the privy isn't gross. Bring toilet paper," advises a visitor to Valley Forge Trail Camp. Other sites have no toilets, requiring campers to dig catholes.
Water treatment required: Even when streams are running, treatment is necessary. "Stream water must be boiled or filtered," notes a Hoegees Trail Camp camper. Another adds, "There is a creek that might or might not have water in it. Bring a way of making the water potable."
Tips for camping with families
Choose shorter trails: For kids, select camps with easier access. The trail to Millard Falls "is only half a mile but we definitely took our time as it's a gorgeous trail would recommend it to anyone." This campground offers "a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups."
Wildlife preparation: Teach children proper food storage. At China Camp, "I am camping with my husband and 3 kids and our puppy... There are coons here so you can't keep any food out when dark comes near!" Another camper warned, "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food."
Stream activities: Creeks provide entertainment for children. One parent noted at Millard Trail Camp that "the creek kept our dogs cool as they would jump in and out of the small pools we had a great time." Water levels vary seasonally, with some streams running dry by late summer.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Rowland Heights are tent-only trail camps. For RVers, Manker Campground provides drive-in access with "sites for camping" that accommodate small RVs, though one reviewer noted it gets "very dirty on the busy weekends, beware!" The campground features "firepits, water spickets, bathrooms" but can become crowded during peak seasons.
Day use alternatives: Many RVers opt to stay at larger facilities and make day trips to the mountains. "Plenty of parking at the bridge but make sure you have an adventure pass," advises one visitor regarding access to Glenn Trail Camp, indicating that RVers can park and day-hike rather than seeking overnight accommodations.
