The Angeles National Forest surrounding Wrightwood sits at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 feet, creating a distinctive alpine environment within driving distance of Los Angeles. Summer temperatures typically range from 70°F during daytime to 40°F at night, with significant cooling after sunset. Winter camping requires specialized equipment as temperatures regularly drop below freezing with periodic snow accumulation from November through April.
What to do
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail: Access the PCT directly from Guffy Campground, where hikers can experience sections of this iconic long-distance trail. "The trail runs right by and there looks to be a lot of other nearby trails too," notes one visitor who appreciated the campground's strategic location.
Waterfall exploration: Visit nearby cascades during spring months when snowmelt increases flow. "There's a nice waterfall trail which will be 2.5 in & 2.5 miles back," mentions an Edgar V. who enjoyed the trail from Buckhorn Campground.
Mountain biking: The area offers extensive trail networks suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. Crystal Lake Recreation Area provides access to several popular routes. "Bring your dirt bike and hit some of the trails, it's a definite must!" recommends a regular visitor.
Creek wading: Cool off in Lytle Creek during summer months when temperatures rise. A visitor to Applewhite Campground shares, "The creek is small not deep at all but it's nice to take photos and just wet your feet."
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: Weekday camping offers significantly more privacy and quieter experiences. "I went on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. There were only 4-6 other campers each night so it was very quiet," reports a visitor to Manker Campground.
Mountain vistas: Many sites offer panoramic views not available at lower elevations. At Coldbrook Campground, campers find "a great little spot right on a stream to set up," where the ranger provided helpful advice about weather conditions and nearby hiking.
Nature encounters: Wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. One camper at Crystal Lake reported: "Animals seen: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds."
Hammock-friendly sites: Trees spaced appropriately for hammock setup are available at multiple campgrounds. "Most sites have tree coverage," notes one camper, while another mentions, "Trees are perfect for hammocks."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before arrival as they change seasonally and with fire danger levels. A visitor to Table Mountain Campground noted, "Great spot, clean vault toilets, and a good view. Only downside was the incredible high number of yellow jackets in the area and a fire restriction."
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, particularly during summer thunderstorm season. "If there's weather coming it can get dangerous fast! The skies were blue on the hike out but suddenly hail started and it poured," warns a camper who had to evacuate during a storm.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate protection, especially during warmer months. "Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs. Well worth it," reports a visitor to Crystal Lake, while another camper mentions, "The incessant number of bugs during the day- flies, gnats, wasps- you name it."
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have no mobile connectivity. "No AT&T service," reported one camper, while others note the complete absence of cellular reception at higher elevation sites.
Tips for camping with families
Quieter loops: For family camping, select sites away from main thoroughfares. "We had a quad site which was great for a group. The camp host was friendly and helpful," notes a Scout leader who visited Table Mountain Campground with their troop.
Ranger programs: Seasonal interpretive activities are available at some established campgrounds. "We ended up in site D47, which seemed a little quieter because it was further from the main road and the sites are well dispersed," recommends a visitor.
Supply access: Mesa Campground at Silverwood Lake offers convenient access to forgotten essentials. "ATV with ice cream and firewood comes around right before dark," mentions a camper who appreciated this service, while another notes, "Small market is on site at the recreation area."
Kid-friendly features: Some campgrounds offer amenities specifically designed for children. "There is a recreational area 20 minutes down the mountain on the lake," shares one visitor, while another mentions nearby "Park for kids" among the attractions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have limited capacity for larger vehicles. At Bonelli Bluffs, campers note, "Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the area. A visitor to Bonita Ranch Campground appreciates that "This place is awesome full hookups lots to do trails and not to mention right on top of the creek."
Road navigation: Access roads to mountain campgrounds require careful driving. "The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer," warns an RVer who successfully navigated to their site.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at mountain sites. "The ground is a little slanted in most of the sites but not enough that it's not tolerable," notes one camper about their experience.
