Camping spots near Sierra Madre, California sit primarily in Angeles National Forest at elevations between 3,000 and 8,000 feet. The forest contains over 700,000 acres of terrain with Mediterranean climate patterns—hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Camping facilities range from primitive trail camps accessible only by hiking to developed campgrounds with basic amenities at higher elevations where temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees cooler than in surrounding valleys.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: From Coldbrook Campground, access the nearby Coldbrook Campground Overlook Trail. "The little gnats seemed to crawl into my clothing and wiggle/possibly bite which was a nuisance but I didn't have any bug spray with me. My mistake that hopefully you won't repeat," notes Lizzie B., recommending to download trail maps before arrival as cell service is unavailable once you're on the mountain.
Water activities: Bonelli Bluffs offers multiple water recreation options. "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more," reports Jessica P. The site includes designated water activity zones with fishing areas separate from other water sports.
Mountain biking: Trails near Millard Trail Campground provide both beginner and intermediate routes. "Cool drive to get to the campground. You drive up and down these hilly roads up the mountain to get there," shares one camper who notes the area is "heavily used for day camping and hiking" with "several trails to take for hiking and biking."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning hours at Buckhorn Campground offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities. "Beautiful campground. A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees," writes Lauralyn J. Forest G. reports diverse wildlife sightings: "ANIMALS SEEN: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds."
What campers like
Seasonal stream access: Camping near flowing water remains a highlight at Coldbrook Campground. "We had a campsite next to the creek and it was beautiful to see and listen to... you can hear the running stream while you sleep," reports Alexis S. The campground features multiple sites alongside the stream that runs strongest during spring and early summer.
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking solitude, midweek stays offer the best experience. "I went during the week and was the only one camping. This place is heavily used for day camping and hiking," notes a camper at Millard Trail Camp. Similarly at Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, one camper advises: "Will I go again? Sure. Mainly because its a quick escape. Will I go again on a weekend? NO!! Locals go up there to party."
Spacious, private sites: Many Angeles Forest campgrounds offer well-designed layouts. At Chilao Campground, Melinda M. appreciates that "the campsites are very spacious and clean" with "easy hiking trails all over & good trees for hanging my hammock." Similarly, at Valley Forge Trail Camp: "Campgrounds are spread out well giving each site plenty of space," shares CodyRay C., adding there are "picnic tables and fire rings made food preparing especially easy."
Proximity to Los Angeles: The accessibility from urban centers makes these camping locations convenient. "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around," writes Salem L. about Crystal Lake. Another camper notes, "Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn't ask for more."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before planning campfires. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, campers note, "Check on camp fires permitted (last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED)." Fire rules change frequently based on seasonal conditions and fire danger levels.
Car break-ins: Vehicle security issues exist at some locations. At Millard Trail Camp, one camper 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."
Campground closures: Several backcountry sites remain temporarily closed. Valley Forge Trail Camp has had access issues: "Drove all the way to the turn in to find the road was closed," reports one frustrated camper. Always check current forest service alerts before departure.
Water availability: Natural water sources require treatment. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, campers note they "filtered water from the 'river' - seemed like a creek to me." Similarly, at Spruce Grove: "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."
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly during peak periods. "We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up," writes one Chilao camper, who eventually found overflow camping. Another advises: "Crowded in the weekend... People also just come here to hike so they might not be camping."
Tips for camping with families
Best first-time backpacking sites: Valley Forge Trail Camp offers an excellent introduction to backpacking. "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," notes Kelly B. The camp includes six sites with grills and pit toilets.
Scout-friendly locations: Some campsites accommodate larger youth groups. At Spruce Grove Trail Campground, a leader reports: "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."
Short hikes with rewards: Families appreciate trails with achievable destinations. "There's a great little creek that runs through the campground. Standard pit toilets. Friendly people," writes one camper about Coldbrook. Another mentions: "A nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups."
Hammock camping options: Trees at several sites support hammock setups. "There are easy hiking trails all over & good trees for hanging my hammock. The campsites are very spacious and clean," shares Melinda M. about Chilao Campground. Salem L. confirms: "Camp cost and parking cost isn't cheap but the views are great."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Buckhorn Campground, RV length limitations apply. "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended," advises Lauralyn J. The campground sits at over 6,000 feet elevation with sites nestled among pine trees, requiring careful navigation.
Full hookup options: Bonelli Bluffs provides comprehensive RV facilities. "A little pricey but very nice facility. All hookups 30/50 amp. Cable TV. There's a pool," reports Dennis B. Sites vary significantly in quality: "Some spaces monumentally better than others. Occasionally they run a special."
Tent vs. RV areas: Some campgrounds separate different camping styles. "Awesome for RVs but maybe not the best for tent camping," reports Sara H. about Bonelli Bluffs, explaining: "They do have the tent camping on the steep incline and not too many sites but for RVs couldn't be happier."
Drive-in accessibility: Many Angeles Forest campgrounds have challenging access roads. Regarding Crystal Lake, Charlie C. advises: "Such a close spot and beautiful escape from LA, that's also probably the most negative part of the review. Being so close to LA means lots of in and out traffic and it shows." Consider vehicle clearance when planning your trip.
