Cabins near Valyermo, California sit at elevations between 3,000-4,500 feet in the Angeles National Forest. This high desert region experiences dramatic temperature shifts, with summer days reaching 90°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Most cabin rentals require advance planning, especially during peak season when temperatures are most moderate from April through October.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Crystal Lake Recreation Area offers multiple trails leading to scenic viewpoints. "There are several hiking trails here that are well used and well maintained. This is a great campground near the city," notes Robert A. about Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Mountain Lakes Resort provides stocked fishing lakes with specific regulations. "There's two lakes in one pond, there's one catfish lake and then a trout lake. The lakes are stocked on Thursday and there's no fishing on that day," explains a visitor at Mountain Lakes Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Keep your eyes open for native wildlife around cabin areas. "Animals seen: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds," reports Forest G. about their stay at Crystal Lake.
What campers like
Proximity to Los Angeles: Cabin accommodations near Valyermo provide quick getaways from urban areas. "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up here almost every other weekend year around... this campground is HUGE and many locations are rather secluded," shares Salem L. about Bonita Ranch Campground.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevations offer relief from valley heat during summer months. "Stayed here two nights in August, it was nice and cool a good break from the heat," mentions Robert A. regarding Crystal Lake Recreation Area.
Cafe access: Several cabin locations feature on-site food options. "The cafe isn't cheap but I swear has the nicest people and the best cocoa," states Salem L. The Crystal Lake Cafe receives similar praise: "Definitely stop off in the Crystal Lake Cafe for some food. Food is great and the owner, Adam, is a true diamond in the rough," recommends Charlie C.
What you should know
Train noise affects some locations: Several cabin rental sites experience railroad disruptions. "There's about 4 trains a night that will come by with horns blowing," warns a reviewer at LA RV Resort at Acton Camp.
Cell service limitations: Many cabin areas have limited connectivity. "No WiFi and reception for Verizon was hit or miss," reports Keisha D. about Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon. Another visitor notes: "There's no functional WiFi or Cell service, or CATV. So make sure you have some books, cards, movies, whatever."
Insect considerations: Pack appropriate protection, especially during warmer months. "Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it," advises Katarina A. about Crystal Lake. Another camper recommends: "Bring bug spray."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several cabin sites include water recreation options. "They have several pools, they have an adult center and an adult pool, there's tons of things for kids to do as well as the kid pool and they have a really awesome water park," explains a visitor at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon.
Weekend crowds: Plan for busier conditions during peak times. "It is very crowded on the weekends. However, if you drive further towards the back of the site you can find nice, secluded sites," suggests Ginger V. about Crystal Lake Recreation Area.
Themed activities: Some cabin locations offer organized events for families. "They have activities themes that vary from weekend to weekend, such as example there was a petting zoo, they had a Western one time," describes a Mountain Lakes Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Space constraints at some locations: Not all cabin areas accommodate larger vehicles comfortably. "Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Not much room to maneuver a large RV in," cautions Lawrence P. about Fairplex RV Park.
Dirt conditions: Prepare for dusty environments at certain cabin rental sites. "The sites are dirt so be prepared to get lots of fine desert dirt in the camper," warns Elizabeth C. about Soledad Canyon.
Fire regulations vary: Check current fire rules before planning campfires at cabin locations. Fire pits are available at some sites, while others maintain strict fire bans. "Fire pit had a grill on it, too!" notes Mercy M. about Crystal Lake Recreation Area.
