Crystal Lake Recreation Area sits at 5,800 feet elevation in the Angeles National Forest, about 25 miles northeast of South El Monte. The area receives moderate snowfall in winter months, making cabins a practical alternative to tent camping from November through March. Cabin camping options near South El Monte include various private and public facilities within a 45-mile radius.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Millard Trail Campground, visitors can take a short 30-minute hike upstream to reach a waterfall. "Fun little campground with decent facilities and beautiful surroundings. Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups," notes Tom P.
Mountain biking: Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground offers access to numerous maintained trails popular with cyclists. "Bring your dirt bike and hit some of the trails, it's a definite must!" recommends Salem L., who visits frequently year-round.
Beach activities: For those willing to drive to the coast, Newport Dunes RV Resort provides waterfront cabin options with beach access. "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.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Camp at the Historic Zorthian Ranch offers a unique setting that can be enjoyed in all seasons. "Quaint spot that may or may not be currently open, has beautiful hiking and a small spot for picnic," reports Christeen V.
Proximity to urban amenities: Fairplex RV Park provides cabin accommodations with convenient access to surrounding urban areas. "Although you are packed in pretty tightly like sardines it's a friendly environment very welcoming... you couldn't get too much closer to the fairplex," notes Sara H.
Wildlife viewing: The cabin areas at Crystal Lake Recreation Area offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "Animals seen: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds," lists Forest G., who recommends bringing bug spray.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperatures at higher elevations can drop significantly at night, even during summer. "We stayed here on Friday, July 21 2017. We arrived around 4:30 pm (driving from LA it was about 2 hours with traffic)... Cool temps at night," reports Forest G. about Crystal Lake Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park offers cabin accommodations but fills quickly. "This campground fills up fast so book early! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol," advises Elly A.
Vehicle break-ins: Some locations have reported security concerns. "WARNING: 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," warns Mathew H. about Millard Trail Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Private camping spaces: Antfarm LA offers secluded cabin camping near South El Monte. "It's a spot where you can truly be away. We spent 5 days and didn't really see a soul. If you like to read, enjoy sunsets, exercise and travel to local spots of interest or just stay put. This is a spot for you," shares Bill.
Water activities: Newport Dunes RV Resort provides family-friendly cabin options with water recreation. "Great place with a lot to do! Take the family and bring the toys! This place is the best of both family and party atmosphere! Be warned it is not a sleepy RV park," notes Derrick.
Bathroom facilities: When selecting cabin accommodations, consider bathroom proximity and cleanliness. "We were just a short walk to the bathrooms which were spotless. They were being cleaned frequently. The showers are coin operated but it didn't take many coins to get a decent warm shower," reports Amy H. about Crystal Cove State Park.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Canyon RV Park offers cabin options with varying space configurations. "Campground is well-organized, with cabins, RV spots, a youth area, tent spots and a ropes course. A pool, flushable toilets and hot showers are available to all campers for free," explains Christina S.
Noise levels: Many cabin camping locations near South El Monte experience highway noise. "The site is bordered by highways on both sides, and they create noise day and night. They're also clearly visible," notes Christina S. about Canyon RV Park.
Campsite amenities: When choosing cabin accommodations, check what amenities are included. "The spaces are well spaced out and you're not right on top of your neighbors. Bathrooms are clean and they even have fun events on many of the weekends," reports Kerry L. about Canyon RV Park.
