Tent campsites near South Pasadena, California sit within the Angeles National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet, creating temperature differences of 10-15 degrees cooler than the city below. These wilderness campsites require varying levels of hiking effort, with some sites accessible via a 30-minute walk while others demand multi-hour treks along steep terrain. Trail camps throughout the San Gabriel Mountains typically close during extreme fire danger conditions, which most commonly occur between July and October.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: From Valley Forge Trail Camp, take the trail to nearby streams with seasonal waterfalls. "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," notes Kelly B.
Creek exploration: Several trails follow streams with swimming holes. "Go behind campsite one and you will find a 6 mile hike in and out to two different waterfalls. Really fun and refreshing, limited shade in hike, so a dip at the end is so nice!" reports Luke V. about Gould Mesa Trail Campground.
Wildlife watching: The relative isolation at primitive campgrounds creates opportunities for wildlife observation. "Lots of wildlife all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer," according to tom P., who visited Millard Trail Campground.
What campers like
Seclusion after dark: Mount Lowe Trail Campground offers unusual quietness once day visitors leave. "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own hearbeats laying there at night," writes Stacy C.
Historic structures: Some camps feature remnants of past mountain uses. Anthony K. notes about Mount Lowe: "Secluded campground with toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site."
Creek access: Hoegees Trail Camp Campground provides reliable water sources. "Site is shady year round with perennial water," explains David F., adding "Stream water must be boiled or filtered."
Proximity to city: These wilderness sites offer quick escapes without long drives. "It's a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos," writes Tony C. about Gould Mesa Trail Camp.
What you should know
Variable water sources: Streams fluctuate seasonally. "There is usually a stream for filtering water," notes Stacy C. about Bear Canyon Campground, though others warn that summer can bring dry conditions.
Bathroom facilities: Toilet availability differs between sites. "Pit toilets available, we filtered water from the West Fork San Gabriel River that seems more like a creek," reports CodyRay C. about Valley Forge Trail Camp.
Car security concerns: At parking areas for these hiking trails, vehicle break-ins can occur. "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," cautions Mathew H.
Crowded trails on weekends: Many tent sites near South Pasadena experience heavy day-use traffic. "This place is heavily used for day camping and hiking. There's not a lot of privacy because there's always lots of people passing by who are hiking and biking," notes jonnysunami from Millard Trail Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter trails: Glenn Trail Camp Campground offers relatively flat access. "I have been wanting to take my girlfriend backpacming for quite some time but wanted an easy trail to start her off with, and this was it an easy paved 6 1/2 miles in to camp all the way along a creek," shares Andrew G.
Pack extra water for kids: Most sites require water filtration or carrying supplies. "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," advises tom P. about camping at Spruce Grove Trail Campground.
Plan for day-hiker interactions: Children may enjoy watching hikers pass by. "The trail continues past the campsite so you'll get plenty of hikers throughout the day," notes Tony C.
Consider late summer bugs: Some sites experience seasonal insect activity. "While bugs are an inevitable aspect of being outdoors, the biting gnats and/or mosquitos are very formidable in the summer," warns Kevin L.
Tips from RVers
No direct RV access: Tent campsites near South Pasadena require hiking in. "Once past that gate, you'll soon hit another, this one closed to all motorized vehicles," notes Andrei K. about attempting to reach Mount Lowe Trail Campground.
Potential base camp locations: While RVs cannot access wilderness tent sites, some nearby areas offer parking for day trips. "Parking is about 150 yards away, down a hill, so be prepared to haul your gear," explains K B. about the access point for Millard Trail Campground.
Adventure pass requirements: Vehicle parking at trailheads typically requires a permit. "Lots of parking at the bridge but make sure you have an adventure pass," advises tom P. about Glenn Trail Camp access.
