Cabin camping near San Marino, California offers access to the Angeles National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 5,700 feet. Most cabins in the region lack air conditioning, so summer temperatures can reach the mid-90s while winter nights often drop below freezing. The Angeles Forest's 700,000 acres contain a mix of chaparral, oak woodland, and pine forest habitat surrounding San Marino's cabin options.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Millard Trail Campground provides access to Millard Falls just 30 minutes up the trail. "The waterfall trail is nothing but shade provided by the trees foliage and the creek kept our dogs cool as they would jump in and out of the small pools," writes Chris O. about the half-mile trail to the falls.
Mountain biking: Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground has multiple mountain biking trails for different skill levels. "Bring your dirt bike and hit some of the trails, it's a definite must!" says Salem L., who notes this is their "favorite place to go considering we end up here almost every other weekend year around."
Beach day trips: Cabin campers can reach coastal areas within an hour. "Crystal Cove State Park and Laguna Coast Wilderness Park are adjacent to each other, and a small pedestrian gate separates them," writes Chanel C. "The best trail here stretches across the two parks -- No Name Ridge!! Amazing for EPIC SUNSETS!"
What campers like
Proximity to Los Angeles: Many cabins provide a quick escape from urban life without long travel times. At Antfarm LA, one visitor notes, "This place was wonderful. Peaceful, restful and a perfect getaway from the city. Went on a beautiful hike with my son and explored the area. Nice views of the Angeles National Forest Mountains."
Wildlife viewing: Forest cabins offer opportunities to spot local fauna. "ANIMALS SEEN: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds," reports Forest G. about their stay at Crystal Lake Rec Area.
Scenic mountain views: Camp at the Historic Zorthian Ranch offers unique perspectives of the San Gabriel Mountains. One visitor describes it as a "Quaint spot that may or may not be currently open, has beautiful hiking and a small spot for picnic."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most mountain cabins have limited availability during winter months. "Crystal Lake would be a great spot to camp!! I'm going back as soon as possible!" writes Deb Z., though visitors should note the campground operates only from "April 25 to December 20."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active in cabin areas. "It's in Bear country so they provide food storage for each campsite also trash containers too," notes a reviewer at Millard Trail Campground, adding, "I didn't see any bears although there was an animal outside my tent at one point in the night I could hear him nosing around."
Parking restrictions: Many cabin areas have limited parking. "Parking is about 150 yards away, down a hill, so be prepared to haul your gear," warns K B. about Millard Trail Camp, which requires a short walk to reach the cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Day use amenities: Newport Dunes RV Resort offers cabin options with family-friendly activities. "They have activities for the kids like arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach," explains Karissa J.
Weather preparedness: Mountain cabin temperatures fluctuate widely. "Most sites have tree coverage," notes Katarina A., which helps with summer heat, but she warns visitors to "bring covers" for the picnic tables as they can be "very splintery."
Safety considerations: Car break-ins occur at some locations. "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," advises Mathew H., who experienced a break-in at Millard Trail Camp.
Tips from RVers
RV cabin alternatives: Fairplex RV Park offers cabin options for those without RVs. "It's quaint quiet but you're packed in like sardines it's a tight fit but everybody here is pretty friendly," explains Sara H. about the site layout, noting that "the parking lot can seem like it's a mile away even though it's not that far away."
Site access challenges: Many cabin areas have narrow access roads. "The roads that lead to the sites is a bit narrow, so if your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in," explains Patrick J., noting maximum vehicle lengths are typically restricted.
Amenities for longer stays: Some locations offer cabin amenities for extended visits. "It is a large campground with water, electric and sewer hookups available. During the season it is pretty crowded but if you go off peak it is very nice and quiet," explains Butch C. about cabin and RV options at Soledad Canyon.
