Best Campgrounds near San Gabriel, CA
Camping opportunities in the San Gabriel Valley area range from developed campgrounds to trail camps requiring hiking access. Angeles National Forest offers several campground options including Chilao Campground and Mount Lowe Trail Campground, situated in the mountains north of San Gabriel. Accommodations vary from tent-only sites at primitive hike-in locations to RV-friendly facilities with hookups like Bonelli Bluffs in nearby San Dimas. Many campgrounds are positioned along hiking trails or near scenic overlooks of the Los Angeles basin.
Most primitive sites in the San Gabriel Mountains require hiking between 2-8 miles on established trails. Trail camps such as Hoegees, Millard, and Valley Forge feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets but generally lack running water or showers. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, with Chilao Campground typically open April through November due to mountain weather conditions. Fire restrictions are common during summer and fall months, requiring visitors to obtain permits before making campfires. A camper noted: "You feel deep in the forest and there are plenty of spots, fire pits and flat top stoves. The toilets were boarded up but Winter Creek was flowing well."
Trail camps in the region offer unique experiences despite their proximity to urban areas. Several visitors highlight the remarkable views of Los Angeles from elevated campsites. According to one visitor, "This is a special place and a bit of an uphill hike, very rustic and incredible views at night looking over Los Angeles about 25 miles away." The more accessible campgrounds like Millard Trail Camp see heavy day use from hikers. Mixed-use campgrounds such as Crystal Lake Recreation Area feature amenities including drinking water, a market, and sanitary dump stations. Wildlife sightings are common, particularly at more remote sites, and several campgrounds require food storage in provided bear boxes for safety. Developed campgrounds in lower elevations generally remain open year-round, while higher elevation sites close during winter months.
