Tent camping near Universal City, California offers accessible wilderness experiences within the San Gabriel Mountains section of Angeles National Forest. Most primitive campsites sit at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures than the basin below. Seasonal creeks flow through many campgrounds from winter through early summer, while fire restrictions typically increase during dry months from July through November.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Bear Canyon Campground, campers can follow the creekside trail to several small cascades. "Crossing the tiny bridge at the west end of Switzer Picnic area, you snake up the hill and see breathtaking views from the top of the canyon, veer to the left down the hill and go downstream to the right. Switzer Falls is upstream to the left," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking trails: The trails near Gould Mesa Trail Campground attract cyclists year-round. A camper 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."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "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. I did see my first rattlesnake and heard the coyotes at night," reports a visitor to Camp at the Historic Zorthian Ranch.
What campers like
Isolation close to urban areas: Many campers appreciate the solitude despite proximity to Los Angeles. "You feel deep in the forest & there are plenty of spots, fire pits & flat top stoves," mentions a camper at Hoegees Trail Camp Campground. "The Big Santa Anita Canyon Loop on Mount Wilson offers dog friendly free camping immersed in thick mountain woods with babbling creeks and numerous waterfalls."
Free camping options: Most trail camps in Angeles National Forest don't charge fees. A camper at Gould Mesa noted, "PROS: More quiet than in the city. You can hear cars driving off in the distance but still overall quiet. Close to LA. This is about a 15 minute drive then 30 minute hike from my house. The stream is great. If you have a filter there is no need to hike in water. Sites are spread out and not on top of each other like most other camp sites close to the city. It's FREE!!!!"
Stream access: Running water during wet seasons enhances the camping experience. "Nice campground with multiple sites. Fire pits & along Bear Creek (seasonal). Can be reached from Tom Sloan Saddle or Switzer Falls Trailhead," notes a visitor to Bear Canyon Campground.
What you should know
Car break-ins occur at trailheads: Take precautions when parking. A camper at Millard Trail Campground warned, "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. I've had my car broken into once, and have seen broken glass in the parking lot every time I've stayed here."
Bring water treatment: Most sites lack running water, requiring filtration from streams. "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire," explains a Bear Canyon camper.
Trail difficulty varies: Some access trails involve significant elevation gain. "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 a Valley Forge Trail Camp visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Short hike options: Musch Trail Camp offers an accessible introduction to backpacking. "Musch Camp is an easy one mile hike from from the Trippet Ranch Parking Lot in Topanga State Park. 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," shares a camper.
Facilities with toilets: Some camps have better facilities for children. At Musch Trail Camp, a visitor was pleasantly surprised: "Did not expect the bathrooms to be very clean. They have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands."
Beginner-friendly trails: Choose accessible sites for first-time backpackers. "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 a Valley Forge Trail Camp camper.
Tips from RVers
No true RV options: Universal City tent camping requires backpacking or walk-in access, as noted by a Mount Lowe Trail Campground visitor: "The road has a gate on it, which is locked 8pm-6am. That was day 1 (we slept in our car). Once past that gate, you'll soon hit another, this one closed to all motorized vehicles. GPS says another 5.5 miles and 33 minutes (driving!) time to the campsite."
Parking limitations: Most trailheads have specific parking rules. At Millard Trail Campground, "Parking is about 150 yards away, down a hill, so be prepared to haul your gear. The campground is situated at a popular trailhead, and there is lots of good hiking nearby."
Adventure Pass required: Display an Adventure Pass for parking at most Angeles National Forest trailheads. A Valley Forge camper notes, "If you plan on leaving your vehicle at one of the developed recreation sites while your on your hike be sure to have an Adventure Pass."
