Angeles National Forest provides the majority of tent camping options around Verdugo City, California, with sites primarily located at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet. Most camping areas experience temperature variations of 30-40°F between day and night, even in summer months. The region's Mediterranean climate creates distinct camping seasons, with winter months often bringing precipitation that activates seasonal streams and waterfalls.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 2-mile round trip. The short hike to Millard Falls offers an accessible option for campers staying at Millard Trail Campground. A reviewer noted it's "easy for kids and grown ups" with "wildlife all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer."
Mountain biking: Variable distances. Many trails permit mountain bikes, with Gould Mesa Trail Camp offering good access points. "Plenty of mountain bikers venture by the campground throughout the day. Not enough to really ruin the experience, just enough to notice them there," according to a recent visitor to Gould Mesa Trail Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn/dusk optimal. The canyons around Verdugo City support diverse wildlife. At Antfarm LA, a camper reported, "I did see my first rattlesnake and heard the coyotes at night," highlighting the natural experience available even at developed sites.
What campers like
Stream access: Variable by season. Winter and spring typically offer flowing water at most sites. A camper at Mount Lowe Trail Campground mentioned, "There was some flowing water still," while noting the seasonality of this feature.
Solitude on weekdays: Dramatically reduced crowds. The proximity to Los Angeles creates weekend crowding, but weekday camping offers more isolation. One visitor to Millard Trail Camp observed, "They close the gate at 10 pm I believe, so the evening was nice and quiet" despite daytime crowds.
Cool forest environment: 10-15°F cooler than city. The higher elevations and tree cover create natural air conditioning. At West Fork Trail Campground, a camper appreciated the "plenty of water flowing and tree cover from the sun," making for comfortable conditions even during warmer months.
What you should know
Car security concerns: Real issue at trailheads. Several campgrounds report break-ins at parking areas. A Millard Trail Campground visitor warned: "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."
Limited facilities: Most lack running water. Vault toilets are common but not universal. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, campers "filtered water from the 'river' - seemed like a creek to me," highlighting the need for water treatment equipment.
Uphill return hikes: Significant elevation changes. Many campgrounds require hiking down into canyons, creating challenging returns. A West Fork visitor cautioned, "It's downhill almost exclusively on the way in and therefore... almost entirely uphill on the way out and the last bit is significant climb out."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: 1-2 mile access trails. Several campgrounds offer relatively easy access for families with children. At Gould Mesa, a camper found it "perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos. It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings."
Wildlife education opportunities: Bring field guides. The area offers opportunities to teach children about native species. One camper at Hoegees Trail Camp reported, "I have woke in the morning to deer on several occasions," providing natural viewing opportunities.
Site selection timing: Arrive by noon on weekdays. Weekends fill rapidly at most campgrounds. A visitor to Spruce Grove noted, "I read other reviews talking about how busy the campground can be over the weekend, so I was hoping we would still get a spot if we arrived Friday instead of Saturday."
Tips from RVers
No direct RV access: Park at designated trailheads only. Most camping near Verdugo City requires hiking in. Bear Canyon's visitor noted, "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round," emphasizing the primitive nature unsuited for RVs.
Alternative base camping options: Use developed campgrounds. RV campers seeking to explore the area should consider using established campgrounds outside the immediate area and day hiking to these destinations.
