Chilao Campground is a larger developed campground popular with backpackers exploring the Angeles National Forest and the Pacific Crest Trail. The campground located in the San Gabriel Mountains above Los Angeles at about 5300 feet in elevation. Chilao Camground is one of the few camping spots in Angeles National Forest that is RV friendly.
There are 83 campsites at Chilao Campground, all of which include fire rings, a picnic table, and access to vault toilets and drinking water. Bears are very active in the area and all food must be stored properly. Reservations are not accepted, all campsites are available on a first-come/first-served basis.
You will need to buy an Adventure Pass to park your car at Chilao Campground. Passes are not sold at the campground an must be purchased in advance from a retailer. You will also need a free California Campfire Permit to have any open flame, including stoves, at the campground. The Campfire Permit can be obtained from any Forest Service ranger station of office, or online.
Chilao Campground Features
| Campground Type: | Organized |
| Number of Campsites: | 83 Campsites |
| Cost: | $12/night |
| Use Level: | High |
| Dogs Allowed: | Yes |
| Fire Rings: | Yes |
| Drinking Water: | Yes |
| Toilets: | Vault Toilet |
| Showers: | None |
| Trash/Dumpsters: | Yes |
| Hiking Access: | Yes |
| Beach/Lake Access: | None |
| RV/Trailer Length: | 18 Feet |
| RV/Trailer Amenities: | None |
| Cell Phone Service: | None |
| Wifi: | None |
| Operating Season: | Campground open year-round |
| Other: |
Getting There
| Address: | |
| Geo Coordinates: |
34.323785, -118.016678
|
| Nearest City/Town: | La Canada Flintridge, California |
| Elevation: | 5300 Feet |
| Location: | Los Angeles County, California |
| Paved Road Access: | Yes |
| Proximity to Stores: | Store located 30 miles away in La Canada Flintridge |
| Directions: | From I-210 in the city of La Canada Flintridge, exit at Angeles Crest Highway (CA Hwy 2) and drive northeast for 26 miles to the Chilao Campground on the left. |
Connect
| Phone: |
(626) 574-1613 |
| Web: | Chilao Campground – Angeles National Forest |
| Reservations: | Not Accepted – First-come/first-served |
When To Go
Spring & Early Summer – The best time to go to Chilao Campground is in the Spring & Early Summer. The weather will not be too cold or too hot during these times.
What To Do
Hiking – There are many hiking trails throughout the area. The Pacific Crest Trail, High Desert Trail, and the Silver Moccasin Trail are all nearby and provide great day hikes as well as opportunities for multi-day thru-hikes.