Horse Flats Campground in the Angeles National Forest offers several primitive campsites accessible to equestrian users located at 5,000 feet elevation. The campground features vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings while maintaining a rustic, natural setting approximately 34 miles from South Pasadena. This first-come, first-served campground accommodates both tent and RV camping with space for horse trailers, though no dedicated horse corrals are available. Sites are arranged in groups of 2-4, providing adequate space for those camping with horses. The campground remains relatively uncrowded during weekdays, allowing for a more peaceful experience when bringing horses. Mosquitoes can be prevalent during certain seasons, so proper repellent is essential for both riders and horses.
The Pacific Crest Trail passes near Horse Flats Campground, providing direct access to extensive bridle trails and riding opportunities throughout the Angeles National Forest. Musch Trail Camp in Topanga State Park offers another option closer to South Pasadena with a mile-long hike-in trail from Trippet Ranch parking lot. The camp includes horse corrals across from the main camping area, flush toilets, and running water – amenities particularly valuable for overnight equestrian trips. Both locations require riders to bring all necessary feed and tack, as no equestrian supplies are available on-site. Water sources should be verified before arrival, as seasonal conditions affect availability. Mountain terrain in both locations provides scenic riding through oak woodlands and chaparral landscapes with occasional views overlooking Los Angeles Basin.
"But otherwise a great spot to spend a few summer days away from anyone not hale enough to trek in a few miles."
"Crossing the tiny bridge at the west end of Switzer Picinic area(park up top during the weekdays, adds half a mile), you’ll see Switzer Trail Camp."
"Horse Flats is not as popular as Buckhorn, and is a little less "green" with regards to the immediate scenery. It is also quieter for this reason, which is nice."
"We usually only see rangers come around in the morning. With that said, we still like Horse Flats because there is usually a spot or two open if we arrive on a Saturday."
from $12 / night
"It is prime location for some great hiking and at night it is super quiet. There are restrooms and showers as well."
"The grounds were beautiful and well maintained, the camp host super friendly and helpful, the bathrooms well positioned and clean, and the sites had shade and everything we needed."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $45 - $225 / night
"Awesome park, clean, level paved pads with a parking space..nice amenities, small NEX nearby. Wildlife reserve adjacent to the park made it nice for walking the dogs, too"
"Very clean, cement slab, walking paths well lit and near to many areas to explore. Wetlands on the base and birds galore."
"If you want a longer hike you can hike up the East Topanga Fire Road and then drop down into Musch Camp on the Backbone Trail from Eagle Junction."
"Really felt away from the " concrete jungle" of the city."
from $7 / night
"great views 360 degrees once you're on top. a 7 mile hike north on the Pacific Crest Trail from mill creek fire station. fire rings with multiple spots"
"Rv sites, tent sites and equestrian (horse) sites. Paved road is good for bike riding. Behind my Camp site was a few different hiking paths. Restroom buildings have water, toilets, and showers."
"It has several restrooms, showers, equestrian areas, nature trails and picnicking for day use too."
from $20 / night
"This is a very nice campground near everything but still away from it all. No issues parking our 42' 5th wheel here. Clean and quiet despite the peacocks. They can be rather loud when startled."
"This campground happens to be very close to home so we went here to try out our brand new pull behind camper trailer for the very first time.
The campground is small, quiet and very well-kept."
"A little remote and you have to drive to the nearest town(s), but clean grounds and nice site. Very easy to book online. The RV park is pretty large so it's a nice daily walk."
"It’s right near Magic Mountain theme park and many useful stores nearby: Home Depot, Walmart, Target, genetic stores, movie theaters. I’ll camp here again."
ScoutBeautiful spot on seal Beach naval weapons command base. A bit pricey, but has showers and free laundry facilities seems to be on the flight path to John Wayne Airport beautiful grounds must have a DBIDS card to get in and out of base if not military.
TravelerNice spot with great hiking. Limited facilities. No hookups. $1 for 2 minute shower (tokens).
TravelerI was lucky to find this place. It’s well run, comfortable, friendly. Nice spots.
ScoutI found the campground to be very friendly kid friendly and pet friendly. The spots were spacious and some had privacy others were out in the open. The rangers were very friendly and helpful, they helped me set up my tent when they saw I was having trouble. There are trails to explore. A great last minute getaway from the city and not to far, the bathroom was clean and modern with hot showers and toilets.
ScoutThe hike-in experience has captivating views and diverse environment. Really felt away from the " concrete jungle" of the city.
TravelerI do recommend. Beautiful, peaceful place. Good folks. It’s right near Magic Mountain theme park and many useful stores nearby: Home Depot, Walmart, Target, genetic stores, movie theaters. I’ll camp here again.
Scoutdon’t try to reach out to this park via phone with any questions, they won’t answer you. they won’t even answer the phone when their own reservation agents are calling them. gates close strictly at 10 so if you’re camping here make sure to show up by then. showed up at 9:58 after leaving a music festival early to make sure i made it on time, and their staff was immensely rude to me about not making it on time. the morning staff is incredibly nice, apologizing for the problems and giving me advice. the night staff though has a problem and they take it out on their visitors. for how rude they were to me, somehow the campsite across from me showed up at 11pm, so seems like they pick and choose who to give problems. avoid camping here. campsites are very close together and nothing special.
ScoutGreat hikes all around and close to beaches and city. Good sites were 26, 7, 49.
RangerSmall and not level spots, but OK spreaded. Toilet building is fine (paid showers though).
Horse Flats Campground sits at 5,000 feet elevation in Angeles National Forest, providing cooler temperatures than surrounding areas during summer months. The campground connects to the Pacific Crest Trail and offers bouldering opportunities nearby. Most sites remain accessible from April through November when mountain roads are clear of snow.
Hiking along PCT trails: From Mount Pacifico Campground, trails connect to the Pacific Crest Trail offering panoramic views. "A 7 mile hike north on the Pacific Crest Trail from mill creek fire station. Fire rings with multiple spots" notes Anthony K., who appreciates the "360 degrees" views once you reach the top.
Bouldering opportunities: Horse Flats attracts climbers with its unique rock formations. "Nice place to stay for climbing - there is mostly bouldering in the area, with some trad stuff. Plenty of sites!" mentions Kathleen L., who visited Horse Flats Campground specifically for climbing activities.
Visit historic structures: The area contains remnants of forest history accessible via hiking. Les R. notes that from Horse Flats you can "hike the Pacific Crest Trail to historic Glenwood Cabin" with detailed routes available for those interested in exploring forest architecture.
Secluded campsites: Bear Canyon Campground offers primitive camping away from crowds. "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire," says William K. about this hike-in option.
Summer cooling: The elevation provides relief from valley heat. "We come to this campground throughout the year, and it's one of our favorite spots for summer camping when we're short on time. It's an hours drive from LA and because the campground is at elevation it stays cooler during the hot months," explains Les R. about Horse Flats.
Creek access: Some campsites feature seasonal water access. Shannon E. describes Bear Canyon as having a "GORGEOUS creek with waterfalls and shade in the spring" adding that "when the creek is ice-cold, you are just spoiled."
Mosquito preparation: Bug control is essential at certain times of year. Luissimo M. advises visitors to Horse Flats to "bring lots of mosquito repellent. You will need it," while Josh F. confirms with a simple recommendation to "bring some bug spray if you're bugged by bugs."
Limited water availability: Most primitive sites lack potable water. William K. notes that Bear Canyon Campground has "no roads, no toilets" but does have "lots of water year round," though visitors should verify seasonal conditions.
Fire safety protocols: Fire dangers require strict adherence to regulations. Shannon E. warns to "have lots of water at the pit to put it out, and make sure you do do that completely before you go to sleep. That place would go up faster than you can run."
Short hike options: Musch Trail Camp offers easy access for families with children. "Musch Camp is an easy one mile hike from from the Trippet Ranch Parking Lot in Topanga State Park," states Erik M. about Musch Trail Camp, making it ideal for younger hikers.
Flush toilets available: Some campgrounds offer improved facilities. According to marcos P., Musch Trail Camp has "very clean" bathrooms that "have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands," a significant advantage when camping with children.
Regional park alternatives: For more developed family options, consider county parks. Berton M. describes O'Neill Regional Park as "a great little park that's tucked away among the urban sprawl of Orange County. Once in the park you feel like you're far out in the wilderness," offering a balance of convenience and natural setting.
Elevation and access considerations: RV travelers should note the mountain roads. Les R. explains about Horse Flats: "make sure you have enough gas and have a map/driving directions ready, because there is no cell phone service" and "the drive from the base of the mountain to this campground is about 45 minutes."
Equestrian accommodations: For horse owners seeking campgrounds near South Pasadena, Musch Trail Camp provides horse corrals across from the camping area according to Erik M., who notes that "there are also horse corrals across the trail from the campground" making it suitable for overnight equestrian trips.
Seasonal closures: Check operating dates before traveling. Kate O. advises about Horse Flats Campground: "Know before you go - it's closed from November-ish to April-ish - so check the forest website before you head out there."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near South Pasadena, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near South Pasadena, CA is Bear Canyon Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near South Pasadena, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 equestrian camping locations near South Pasadena, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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