Campground options near Walnut, California range from small secluded tent sites in the Angeles National Forest to full-service RV parks within 30 minutes of the city. The region sits where the inland valleys meet the San Gabriel Mountains, creating diverse camping environments at elevations from 700 to 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures at lower elevation sites regularly reach 95°F, while mountain campgrounds can be 10-15 degrees cooler.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Crystal Lake Recreation Area offers excellent mountain biking opportunities in the Angeles National Forest. "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around. Bring your dirt bike and hit some of the trails, it's a definite must!" notes one regular visitor to Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide fishing opportunities with varying regulations. At Bonelli Bluffs in San Dimas, campers enjoy multiple water activities. According to one visitor, "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more."
Winter hiking: Coldbrook Campground maintains accessibility during winter months when higher elevation sites close. "We have camped here a few times. Can get full on weekends. Not a bad spot really. Pit toilets. Campground not too far from crystal lake or town, for quick ice runs," shares one camper at Coldbrook Campground.
What campers like
Natural waterways: Many campers appreciate sites with creeks or streams. At Coldbrook, one visitor notes, "We had a campsite next to the creek and it was beautiful to see and listen to. At night, we camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires. We sat in the darkness and took in the stars with the sound of the creek below us."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers diverse wildlife watching opportunities. A visitor to China Camp State Park Campground shares their experience: "Very peaceful midweek. There is shade. Lots of wildlife! A coyote walked right by us. Brave raccoons. Yellow jackets are pesky. Quarter showers! Trees for hammocks."
Urban escape: Several campgrounds create natural settings despite being near urban areas. One camper at Canyon RV Park was surprised by this contrast: "I litteraly forgot where i was because its like a little bubble on you. Exit the freeway and enter the park everything behind you just melts away and i felt like i was in the woods, and at times i swear i was the only camper here."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire rules vary significantly between sites and change seasonally. A Coldbrook camper warns: "We camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires." Another at Chino Hills notes, "Due to rain and a desire to protect the blooming poppies, all trails were closed, and in addition, no wood nor charcoal fires were allowed."
Site spacing considerations: Campsite density varies widely across the region. At Prado Regional Park, "The sites here are pretty nice and far enough apart to have some privacy. With the local dairies are more insects than many campgrounds. Can be annoying."
Insect preparation: Different sites have specific insect challenges. A Chino Hills visitor advises, "Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it." Another camper at Coldbrook warns: "Lots of gnats! They swarm your face but then after you sit still for about a minute they leave you alone. Didn't encounter any mosquitos in early April."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Bonelli Bluffs, a visitor mentions various family activities: "I brought my horses one time and it was amazing the best time of my life. The views are incredible."
Splash pads for summer heat: Water features provide relief during hot months. A Prado Regional Park visitor notes: "The playground and splash pad kept the youngins entertained."
Wildlife education opportunities: Use wildlife encounters as learning experiences but prepare children for safety. At China Camp, one camper advises: "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food. I stupidly left my tent unzipped for a few minutes to run up and use the bathroom at night and came back to find 2 rooting around my things."
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs or slideouts. At Orangeland RV Park, visitors appreciate the layout: "Super friendly staff, super clean, 2 dog parks, offers really good wifi & cable. Can pick the oranges out of the tree."
Highway noise considerations: Some RV parks experience significant road noise. A Canyon RV Park camper notes: "The site is bordered by highways on both sides, and they create noise day and night. They're also clearly visible."
Utility hookup reliability: Check available utilities before booking. At Orangeland RV Park, one camper appreciates the amenities: "Good wifi," while another mentions, "The price for the area is worth it! Free citrus picking! Pool, mini golf on site. Incredibly clean restrooms and showers. Camp store."
