Camping at Angeles National Forest offers a diverse range of experiences amidst stunning natural landscapes. Angeles National Forest spans over 650,000 acres and offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains, lush forests, and sparkling streams. This place has has numerous campgrounds scattered throughout the area, offering different amenities and experiences.
You can also enjoy various outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, birdwatching, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. There are also designated areas for activities like rock climbing and off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding.
List of campgrounds at Angeles national forest :
Buckhorn Campground:
Buckhorn campground is located in the San Gabriel Mountains at an elevation of 6,300 feet. Offering 38 campsites suitable for tents and RVs and amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. This Buckhorn campground is popular campground for its proximity to hiking trails and scenic vistas.
Chilao Campground:
Situated in the San Gabriel Mountains at an elevation of 5,300 feet, Chilao campground has 82 campsites suitable for tents and RVs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. Chilao campground is known for its beautiful pine forest surroundings and access to hiking trails.
Crystal Lake Campground:
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains at an elevation of 5,600 feet, Crystal lake campground offers 63 campsites suitable for tents and small RVs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. This campground provides easy access to Crystal Lake for fishing and scenic views.
Devils Punchbowl County Park Campground:
Situated in the western portion of Angeles National Forest, Devils punchbowl county park campground offers 20 campsites suitable for tents and RVs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. It is known for its unique geological features and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Table Mountain Campground:
Located near the San Gabriel Wilderness at an elevation of 7,000 feet, Table mountain campground offers 39 campsites suitable for tents and RVs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. This campground is popular for its scenic beauty and access to hiking trails.
Coldbrook Campground:
Situated along the San Gabriel River at an elevation of 5,400 feet, Coldbrook campground offers 22 campsites suitable for tents and small RVs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. This campground provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and hiking along the river.
Jackson Flat Campground:
Located in the northern portion of Angeles National Forest, Jackson flat campground offers 15 campsites suitable for tents and small RVs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. This campground is known for its tranquil setting and access to hiking trails.
These are just a few examples of the campgrounds available in Angeles National Forest. Each offers its own unique features and experiences for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the forest.
Popular trails at Angeles national forest
- Bridge to Nowhere Trail:
- Length: Approximately 10 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Description: This iconic trail follows the East Fork of the San Gabriel River to an abandoned bridge, which spans a deep gorge. The hike offers stunning scenery, river crossings, and ends at the famous Bridge to Nowhere, a relic of a failed road construction project from the 1930s.
- Mt. Baldy Trail (Mount San Antonio):
- Length: Varies depending on route; typically around 11 miles round trip to the summit.
- Difficulty: Strenuous.
- Description: Mt. Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. The trail offers challenging elevation gain, breathtaking views, and a variety of terrain, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. Summiting Mt. Baldy rewards hikers with panoramic views of Southern California.
- Pacific Crest Trail (PCT):
- Length: Approximately 2,650 miles in total; various sections within Angeles National Forest.
- Difficulty: Varies depending on section.
- Description: The Pacific Crest Trail traverses from Mexico to Canada, with segments passing through Angeles National Forest. Hiking a portion of the PCT offers opportunities to experience diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and desert. Popular sections in the forest include Mt. Baden-Powell and the San Gabriel Wilderness.
- Sturtevant Falls Trail:
- Length: Approximately 3.6 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
- Description: This family-friendly trail leads to the picturesque Sturtevant Falls, a 50-foot waterfall nestled in Santa Anita Canyon. The hike follows a shaded path through oak woodlands and alongside a babbling creek. Sturtevant Falls is a popular spot for picnicking and cooling off in the refreshing pool below the cascade.
- Icehouse Canyon Trail to Cucamonga Peak:
- Length: Approximately 12 miles round trip to the summit.
- Difficulty: Strenuous.
- Description: Starting from Icehouse Canyon, this challenging trail ascends steeply through lush forest before reaching the alpine terrain near Cucamonga Peak. Hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and even glimpses of the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
- Switzer Falls Trail:
- Length: Approximately 4.5 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Description: This scenic trail leads to Switzer Falls, a beautiful two-tiered waterfall cascading into a serene pool below. The hike meanders through shaded canyons, crossing streams and passing remnants of historic structures. Switzer Falls is a popular destination for picnics and cooling off in the water.
These trails offer a range of experiences for hikers of all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging adventures amidst the stunning landscapes of Angeles National Forest.
Some campgrounds in Angeles National Forest require reservations, especially during peak seasons. Additionally, wilderness permits may be required for backcountry camping. Be sure to familiarize yourself with any regulations and obtain necessary permits before embarking on your camping trip.
While camping in Angeles National Forest, it’s crucial to be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife encounters, sudden weather changes, and rough terrain. Always practice safety precautions, including proper food storage to deter bears and other wildlife, and carry essential supplies such as first aid kits and navigation tools.
Overall, camping at Angeles National Forest offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy outdoor adventures in a stunning wilderness setting. Just remember to plan ahead, respect the environment, and leave no trace to help preserve this beautiful natural resource for future generations.
Check out this post for other fun place to camp around Los Angeles: Best campgrounds near Los Angeles
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