Angeles National Forest provides accessible camping sites near South Pasadena, California at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 7,000 feet. The forest contains over 700,000 acres with various trail systems connecting primitive camping areas. Most campgrounds operate seasonally with limited cell service and variable water availability depending on rainfall patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bonelli Bluffs in San Dimas offers diverse water activities including fishing. One visitor noted, "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."
Waterfall hiking: Near Millard Trail Campground, a short hike leads to seasonal falls. A camper shared, "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. Wild life all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer."
Mountain biking: The trails around Gould Mesa Trail Campground attract cyclists. One reviewer observed, "There were a dozen or so mountain bikers and about the same amount of hikers runners that venture by the campground throughout the day. Not enough to really ruin the experience, just enough to notice them there."
What campers like
Scenic city views: The Angeles Crest Overlook provides nighttime urban panoramas. A camper mentioned, "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise! That being said, it did seem like maybe a teen hangout or something - cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight."
Stream access: Valley Forge Trail Camp offers water features that enhance the camping experience. A visitor reported, "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green owasis of a meadow. I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer."
Site seclusion: Campers appreciate the privacy at Hoegees Trail Camp. One reviewer stated, "You can only access this campground by backpacking in. There's about 12 campsites with picnic benches and fire rings. There's a creek that runs through. it's beautiful and feels completely isolated."
What you should know
Seasonal water concerns: Water availability varies throughout the year. At Spruce Grove Trail Campground, "There is no running water but the creek is usually running so come prepared with your own water and something to treat the creek water with."
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before planning campfires. A camper at Hoegees Trail Camp advised, "Bring a way of making the water potable. Lots of things to do for the kids and plenty of trails. Be aware of any fire restrictions."
Vehicle security: Take precautions with valuables at trailhead parking areas. One camper at Millard Trail Camp warned, "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."
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. A visitor to Mount Lowe Campground noted, "New toilet built within the last year. There's no water right now but that could change after first rain or snow."
Tips for camping with families
Introductory backpacking: Choose accessible trails for first-time backpackers. A camper recommended Valley Forge Trail Camp saying, "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."
Wildlife viewing: Kids enjoy spotting local animals. At Millard Trail Camp, a visitor observed, "Wild life all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer. Park in the lot at end of road and walk 200 yards up the the camp sites."
Food storage: Bears are active in the area. One camper at Hoegees Trail Camp advised, "There are bears in the area so hang your food and keep your campsite clean. Bring your own toilet paper."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Bonelli Bluffs offers full amenities for larger rigs. A camper noted, "A little pricey but very nice facility. All hookups 30/50 amp. Cable TV. There's a pool. A tent area. Some spaces monumentally better than others. Occasionally they run a special."
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. One RVer at Bonelli Bluffs shared, "We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking and full hookups."
Tent vs. RV considerations: Some campgrounds better serve specific camping styles. A camper observed, "Awesome for RVs but maybe not the best for tent camping. After experiencing both amenities this place is more or less for RVs and 4/10 as for they do have the tent camping on the steep incline and not too many sites."
