Dispersed camping at Angeles National Forest provides multiple options within a short drive of Verdugo City. The forest sits at elevations between 1,200 and 10,064 feet, creating varied camping conditions from desert-like landscapes to pine forests. Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night are common throughout the year, particularly at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Access seasonal waterfall trails from Bear Canyon Campground. "Crossing the tiny bridge at the west end of Switzer Picnic area... Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end. Trail tends to get iffy at points, but you kinda get to know the flow of it if it disappears into rocks or the creek."
Bird watching: The high desert terrain around Chilao Campground hosts numerous bird species. Campers report seeing "Jet black Ravens, rabbits, coyotes, and interesting botany there are plenty of creatures to aww and be thankful for."
Mountain biking: Trails near Gould Mesa Trail Campground accommodate mountain bikers. "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."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy between sites. At Monte Cristo Campground, campers appreciate the "Nice campgrounds with lots of trees and big stones, and a creek that runs thru seasonally."
Creek access: Seasonal water sources provide both practical benefits and scenic value. Valley Forge Trail Camp offers "crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green oasis of a meadow. I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer."
Elevation escape: Higher elevation sites provide cooler temperatures during summer months. At Buckhorn Campground, "A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees... No traffic and not a lot of people in this area. Great little getaway."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules change seasonally and vary by location. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, "Check on camp fires permitted (last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED)."
Wildlife considerations: Several campgrounds report wildlife encounters. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, visitors note seeing "From my favorite the Jet black Ravens, rabbits, coyotes, and interesting botany there are plenty of creatures to aww and be thankful for."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is unreliable throughout the Angeles National Forest. At Monte Cristo Campground, campers report "No service. I pulled a 26 TT. I came in from the La side of the mountains and found it's easier to go in from Palmdale with a rv or tt."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose larger, more established sites for family camping. Buckhorn Campground offers "Lots of space between campsites. Babbling brook to lull you to sleep at night. Very quiet after 10:00 pm. Great for families."
Beginner-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate first-time campers. Chilao Campground is "the perfect spot for beginner outdoor enthusiasts. It's such a short and easy drive for LA, and the drive up campspots are always in great condition."
Safety considerations: Be aware of natural hazards at primitive sites. At Monte Cristo Campground, "be careful because there are black widows everywhere! Especially under the tables of the campsites. Be especially careful if you're traveling with kids, because with the next hospital far away a bite could be deadly."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many forest roads have tight turns and size restrictions. At Buckhorn Campground, "Good for small RVs. Over 24 foot not recommended."
Parking strategies: For dog friendly campgrounds near Verdugo City with limited RV sites, arriving early is essential. At Soledad Canyon, "If you need a place to camp around here I'd recommend it if you're a TT member bc it's free to members and what's better than free??"
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the Angeles National Forest area. Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon offers "water, electric and sewer hookups available. During the season it is pretty crowded but if you go off peak it is very nice and quiet. Stay in the back side of the park as a rail line runs in front of the front side of the park."
