Camping areas near Upland, California range from 3,000 to 7,000 feet elevation with significant temperature variations between lower and higher sites. The Angeles National Forest region contains numerous dispersed sites requiring Adventure Passes for overnight stays, with limited cell service throughout most camping areas. Angeles National Forest fire restrictions typically run from May through November depending on seasonal conditions.
What to do
Mountain summit hikes: From Little Jimmy Trail Campground, access the Pacific Crest Trail and nearby peaks. "Fantastic in the snowy season. Getting to Windy Gap usually requires spikes or crampons and axe, but it's well worth the effort. There's also year-round running water at Little Jimmy Springs," notes one Little Jimmy Trail Campground visitor.
Creek exploration: Winter Creek runs through Hoegees Trail Camp, offering natural water features. "The site is shady year round with perennial water. It is illegal to take wood and water from the nearby cabins," explains one camper who enjoyed the natural setting.
Mountain biking: The paved road to Glenn Trail Camp is designated as a National Scenic Bikeway. A visitor shares: "Access to this campground is so easy, whether it's by car or by bike. I have bikepacked here a couple times now; once biking up Highway 39 from Azusa, and once driving up the 39 with bikes and bags in the trunk."
What campers like
Natural springs: Hikers appreciate the reliable water sources at Glenn Trail Camp Campground, which sits beside a creek. "It's a good hike with a slight uphill grade but very beautiful if the stream is running. The sites are a little spare but well maintained and the privy isn't gross," one visitor reports.
Secluded spots: At Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites, campers find more remote options. "Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot," advises one camper.
Group camping spaces: Some sites accommodate larger parties. At Deer Flats Group Campground, visitors note the "Spacious sites, enough for groups and numerous tents."
What you should know
Trail conditions: Many tent camping spots near Upland require hiking on moderate trails. At Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, "If you take the Upper Winter Creek Trail it's an easier hike but not as pretty as the Lower one. Campsite is very nice with enough sites for about 20 campers with a privy but no running water."
Cell service: Most tent camping areas have no connectivity. At Little Jimmy Trail Campground, campers should plan accordingly as there is no service in most areas.
Bear awareness: Wildlife requires proper food storage. One Hoegees camper advises: "There are bears in the area so hang your food and keep your campsite clean. Bring your own toilet paper."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Spruce Grove Trail Campground offers accessible first-time backpacking experiences. "Great spot with beautiful hikes! We were there with a larger group for a scout trip and it was great. Lots of room for our tents," reports one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds around Upland provide opportunities for animal sightings. At Manker Campground, one camper shares their experience: "Close by Hobit trails clear and inviting trails, rivers and in the winter snow....lots of campsites.... seen deer..rabbits and a multitude of squirrels."
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A Manker Campground visitor notes: "We spent 3 days and 2 nights here and enjoyed our stay, the caretaker was so nice! Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!"
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: RVers should research road conditions before attempting routes to Appletree Campground. "It's kind of a hike getting equipment up to the upper camping areas with equipment. Lower campsites are nice but kinda close to the road so you get the road noise," explains one camper.
Limited RV-friendly options: Most tent camping near Upland lacks RV hookups. At Stockton Flats, one visitor warns: "The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off. If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around."
Seasonal crowding: Winter brings additional visitors for snow play. An Appletree camper notes: "Snow season is ridiculous everyone is there and no one respects the people camping."
