Tent camping near Walnut, California centers primarily on backcountry sites located in the San Gabriel Mountains at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet. Most sites remain accessible from April through November, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during daytime hours. Water sources fluctuate seasonally with many creeks running dry by late summer, requiring hikers to carry sufficient supplies during drought periods.
What to do
Explore mountain summits: Hike to nearby peaks from Little Jimmy Trail Campground, located along the Pacific Crest Trail. "There's numerous hiking trails that run nearby the campsite, and at Little Jimmy there's a spring where you can collect fresh [water]," explains one camper, who recommends the 1.2-mile hike to Mount Islip for panoramic views.
Visit historical sites: Mount Lowe Trail Campground preserves remnants of the area's past. "Secluded campground with toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," notes Anthony K. The abandoned mountain railway and tavern foundations provide unique exploration opportunities.
Filter creek water: When hiking to Spruce Grove Trail Campground, prepare to treat water from the adjacent creek. "There is a creek that runs through. it's beautiful and feels completely isolated," reports Morgan F. Many campers recommend bringing lightweight water filters rather than chemical treatments.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hoegees Trail Camp Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "There's about 12 campsites with picnic benches and fire rings. There's a creek that runs through. it's beautiful and feels completely isolated," describes Morgan F. The layout provides separation between groups even when multiple sites are occupied.
Natural water features: Valley Forge Trail Camp provides access to the West Fork San Gabriel River. "We filtered water from the West Fork San Gabriel River that seems more like a creek. Picnic tables and fire rings made food preparing especially easy," shares CodyRay C. Most camps feature year-round water sources suitable for filtering.
Proximity to urban areas: Glenn Trail Camp Campground combines accessibility with wilderness immersion. "I have been wanting to take my girlfriend backpacking for quite some time but wanted an easy trail to start her off with, and this was it an easy paved 6 1/2 miles in to camp all the way along a creek," writes Andrew G., highlighting the approachable nature of these backcountry sites.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most backcountry sites offer minimal amenities. At Millard Trail Campground, "Bathrooms included male and female toilets but no showers or water. There's a creek that runs through the campground which makes it very pretty," reports one camper, reflecting typical conditions throughout the area.
Wildlife encounters: Animals frequently visit these mountain camps. "I saw wildlife all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer," notes a visitor to Millard Trail Camp. Another camper at Hoegees warns about "Brave raccoons" that approach campsites after dark.
Weather variations: Mountain conditions change rapidly. "It's often foggy in the morning, and sunny in the afternoon," explains Nathaniel S. about the typical daily pattern. Spring and fall camping offers more moderate temperatures but requires additional layers for chilly nights.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shorter trails: For younger hikers, select camps with easier access. "This walk-in campground is part of China Camp State Park. Only 33 tent-only sites! Wheeled totes can be borrowed to haul your gear up some little hills to your campsite under oak and bay trees," shares Laura F., describing an option with family-friendly logistics.
Pack entertainment: Children may need additional activities once camp is established. "I am camping with my husband and 3 kids and our puppy. The hosts are friendly, cheap firewood, china beach village is just down the road and perfect to explore and swim," explains Veronica H., highlighting the importance of nearby exploration options.
Prepare for insects: Bring appropriate repellent during summer months. "The biting gnats and/or mosquitos are very formidable in the summer. We had some 'natural' bug spray that had little to no effect, so you might want to bring your bug repellant A-game if bugs bother you," advises one camper about seasonal conditions.
Tips from RVers
Use walk-in sites as basecamp: While RVs cannot access backcountry campgrounds, parking areas near trailheads provide staging points. "The parking lot is just behind the corner out of view. The only downside is that there are a couple of holiday houses in the surrounding forest and there is the trailer of the camp manager," explains Edoardo A. about Millard's layout, which is typical of several area campgrounds.
