Tent camping options in San Gabriel Mountains require preparation for variable terrain and weather conditions. Most trail campgrounds sit at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet, experiencing temperature swings of 30°F between day and night. Creek water levels fluctuate seasonally, with reliable flow typically from February through June at most backcountry sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Valley Forge Trail Camp provides access to several fishing spots along seasonal streams. "For biking enthusiasts, the road to the campground is designated as a National Scenic Bikeway, so if you want to knock one off the list, here it is. 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'," notes one reviewer at Glenn Trail Camp.
Waterfall hikes: Multiple tent sites connect to trails with seasonal waterfalls. At Bear Canyon Campground, you'll find "breathtaking views from the top of the canyon, veer to the left down the hill and go downstream to the right. Switzer Falls is upstream to the left. Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end."
Bikepacking routes: Several campgrounds offer beginner-friendly bikepacking options on paved or graded surfaces. Glenn Trail Camp has "an honest 6.5 miles of a relatively flat paved road. If you're trying to bike_fish_ (it's a thing), this road is lined with fishing platforms for all sorts of trout, as the road follows a river the entire way."
What campers like
Creek access: Many campers appreciate sites positioned near flowing water. At Hoegees Trail Camp, "there is a creek that runs through. It's beautiful and feels completely isolated," according to one reviewer who backpacked in. Another notes that Hoegees has "15 campsites, each with table, fire ring and wood-burning stove. You must pack your garbage out. Site is shady year round with perennial water."
Solitude on weekdays: Visiting midweek often means having entire campgrounds to yourself. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, campers report, "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own hearbeats laying there at night. We went in May this year so not much people around. Brand new toilet is nice as well."
Wildlife viewing: The San Gabriel foothills host diverse wildlife visible from most trail camps. "I have woke in the morning to deer on several occasions," reports one West Fork Trail camper. Bear Canyon offers "breathtaking views and when the creek is ice-cold, you are just spoiled."
What you should know
Vehicle security concerns: Car break-ins occur at some trailhead parking areas. One reviewer at Millard Trail Campground warns: "Make sure to leave your car doors unlocked, and nothing of value inside. You'd rather have someone root through your car and walk away empty handed than have a window broken and items stolen. I've had my car broken into once, and have seen broken glass in the parking lot every time I've stayed here."
No-fire periods: Fire restrictions change frequently and aren't always posted clearly. "Check for fire restrictions and dig your cat holes at least 200 feet from the water. Or bring WAG bags and pack it back out," advises an Idlehour camper.
Road closures: Always check current road status before departing. One frustrated Valley Forge visitor reported they "drove all the way to the turn in to find the road was closed."
Tips for camping with families
Easy first backpacking trip: Several campgrounds offer gentle terrain for kids' first overnight hiking experience. At Spruce Grove Trail Campground, "Great spot with beautiful hikes! We were there with a larger group for a scout trip and it was great. Lots of room for our tents."
Scout-friendly sites: Many San Gabriel trail camps accommodate youth groups with multiple tent sites. "This is a great small, hike in camp ground with no privy but decent tent sites. There's no running water but the creek is usually running so come prepared with your own water and something to treat the creek water with. Very much like Hoegees campground. Good for families and Scouts," notes a Spruce Grove visitor.
Shorter trail options: For children with limited hiking stamina, consider campgrounds closer to trailheads. Millard Trail Camp offers "a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups. Wild life all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer."
Tips from RVers
Base camp parking: While these trail camps don't accommodate RVs directly, some nearby areas allow overnight parking permits for base camp operations. At Gould Mesa Trail Campground, "The parking is available either at Oak Glen Park or further north on the streets...but check with the city on overnight street parking."
Weekend congestion: RVers report extreme difficulty parking near popular trailheads on weekends. One Hoegees visitor notes, "Parking fills up within an hour on weekends so get there as soon as the parking lot opens at 6am."
