Blue Ridge Campground

Introduction / Overview

For California adventurers yearning for breathtaking views and a genuine high-elevation camping experience, Blue Ridge Campground in Wrightwood offers an exceptional opportunity. Situated at an impressive 8,000 feet within the vast Angeles National Forest, this campground provides a scenic and relatively rugged escape from the bustling urban centers of Southern California. It’s a destination perfectly suited for those who appreciate natural beauty, tranquility, and direct access to some of the state’s most iconic hiking trails. Blue Ridge Campground embodies the spirit of traditional camping, where simplicity and immersion in the environment are key.

Blue Ridge Campground is celebrated by visitors for its "remarkable" views and its quiet, peaceful atmosphere, especially during the times when it's meant to be quiet. Despite its somewhat rustic nature, it offers essential amenities that facilitate a comfortable stay for tent campers and smaller RVs. Its location, close to Mountain High Resort and the charming town of Wrightwood, adds to its appeal, combining remote natural beauty with convenient access to supplies and additional recreational activities. This campground is a fantastic option for Californians looking to disconnect, breathe fresh mountain air, and explore the diverse landscapes of the San Gabriel Mountains.

Location and Accessibility

Blue Ridge Campground is uniquely positioned at E Blue Ridge Rd, Wrightwood, CA 92397, USA, sitting at an elevation of approximately 8,000 feet within the Angeles National Forest. This prime location near the top of Mountain High's East Resort offers campers stunning views of both the high desert to the north and, on clear days, the distant city views and even Catalina Island to the south. Its proximity to the quaint mountain town of Wrightwood, just about 5 miles away, means essential supplies and services are within easy reach.

Access to Blue Ridge Campground is primarily via Blue Ridge Road (Forest Service Road 3N06), which connects from Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2). While the road is described as "rough" and "rutted and rocky" by some, with "stretches of jagged rock," reviews confirm that it is generally passable. During summer months, a 2WD vehicle with "a little clearance" can typically manage the drive, although a high-clearance vehicle or 4WD might be necessary during other times of the year, especially after rains. Visitors should be aware that Blue Ridge Road closes seasonally, typically from mid-November to mid-May, making the campground walk-in only during winter. Despite the road conditions, the fact that "a Mercedes-Benz sedan" has been spotted at a campsite indicates that it's "not too hard to get to" for those prepared for a bumpy ride. This unique accessibility, balancing ruggedness with a manageable approach, makes it an adventurous yet attainable destination for California locals.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Blue Ridge Campground offers 8 individual campsites, each designed to accommodate tents and smaller RVs (up to 20 feet in length). Sites are generally large, providing ample space for setting up multiple tents and enjoying personal space. Some sites may have slight slopes, so campers should be prepared to find the flattest spots for their tents.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for outdoor meals and group gatherings.
• Fire Rings: Every campsite includes a fire ring for campfires (when conditions permit), allowing for warmth, ambiance, and outdoor cooking. A California Campfire Permit is required for campfires.
• Grills: Campfire rings are also equipped with grilling grates, facilitating cooking over an open flame.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault (non-flush) toilets, which are generally maintained. While not as luxurious as flush toilets, they offer essential convenience in this rustic setting.
• Parking: Each campsite has designated parking, and there are additional parking spots available near the flush restroom parking lot (where an Adventure Pass is required). Visitors should aim to arrive before 5 PM on busy days to secure a spot, as the campground can fill up quickly.

Important Note on Services:

• No Piped Water: Blue Ridge Campground does not have piped water available. Campers must bring their entire water supply for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources if available.
• No Electricity: There are no electrical hookups or power sources at the campsites, requiring campers to be fully self-sufficient regarding power needs.
• No Bear Lockers: Unlike some other campgrounds in bear country, Blue Ridge Campground does not typically offer bear lockers or food storage boxes. Campers must exercise extreme caution with food storage, utilizing bear-resistant containers or hanging food properly to prevent wildlife encounters.
• No Showers: Showers are not available at this campground. Campers planning longer stays should consider portable shower options.

Features / Highlights

• Remarkable Views: A consistent highlight from visitors is the "remarkable" and "gorgeous view." Perched at 8,000 feet, the campground offers sweeping panoramas of the high desert to the north and the sprawling Los Angeles Basin, potentially even Catalina Island on clear days, to the south.
• Access to Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): Blue Ridge Campground is a prime access point for the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT), with the trail running right beside or through parts of the campground. This makes it an ideal base for day hikes or as a stop for PCT thru-hikers.
• Proximity to Mountain High Resort: The campground is located "right by Mountain High at the top," offering a unique vantage point near the ski resort and potentially access to its summer activities like mountain biking or disc golf.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite being a popular spot, especially on weekends, the campground is noted for being "quiet when it was supposed to be quiet," allowing for genuine relaxation and immersion in nature's sounds.
• Large Campsites: Campsites are described as "large area to set up 5 tents," indicating generous spacing that provides a sense of privacy from neighboring campers.
• First-Come, First-Serve Availability: The campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis for its 8 sites. This offers flexibility for spontaneous trips, though early arrival is recommended during peak times.
• Cooler Summer Temperatures: Being at 8,000 feet, Blue Ridge Campground offers a pleasant escape from the intense heat of lower elevations in California, with reviews mentioning "cool weather in the day and cold weather at night" even when surrounding areas are over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for observing local wildlife. Campers should be prepared for potential visits from animals due to the lack of bear lockers.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground is noted as being dog-friendly, allowing furry companions to join in the outdoor adventure, provided they are leashed and rules are followed.
• Good Cell Phone Reception: Unusually for a remote campground, some reports indicate "good" cell phone reception, which can be a convenience for emergencies or brief communication needs, while still allowing for a largely unplugged experience.

Contact Information

Address: E Blue Ridge Rd, Wrightwood, CA 92397, USA

Phone: (760) 249-3504

Mobile Phone: +1 760-249-3504

As a first-come, first-serve campground within the Angeles National Forest, Blue Ridge Campground does not accept reservations directly. The provided phone numbers, (760) 249-3504, typically connect to the local ranger district office of the Angeles National Forest, specifically the Big Pines Ranger Station or the district office that manages this area. This is the best point of contact for the most current information regarding road conditions (especially concerning the seasonal closure of Blue Ridge Road), fire restrictions, campground status, and any required passes such as the Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for parking. It is highly recommended to call ahead or check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Angeles National Forest before planning your trip, particularly if you are unfamiliar with high-elevation camping or the area's seasonal accessibility.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Blue Ridge Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for California locals, particularly those in Southern California, seeking an authentic mountain camping experience with truly remarkable views. Its location in Wrightwood, at a high elevation within the Angeles National Forest, offers a refreshing escape from the urban sprawl and a welcome respite from summer heat. The relatively manageable drive, especially during the summer months, makes it an accessible weekend getaway for many, allowing for more time immersed in nature and less time traveling.

What truly sets Blue Ridge Campground apart for Californians is its rustic charm combined with essential amenities and unparalleled natural features. The direct access to the iconic Pacific Crest Trail provides endless opportunities for hiking and exploration, catering to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. The large, spacious campsites offer a sense of privacy, allowing groups and families to set up comfortably and enjoy their surroundings. Critically, the "quiet when it was supposed to be quiet" atmosphere ensures a peaceful environment for relaxation and genuine connection with nature, which is a rare and highly valued commodity.

While campers must be prepared for no piped water and the absence of bear lockers, these aspects contribute to its rugged appeal, attracting those who truly embrace self-sufficiency in the wilderness. The stunning, unobstructed views and the cooler mountain temperatures provide an invigorating contrast to California's lower elevations. For locals who prioritize breathtaking scenery, extensive hiking, a quiet environment, and a back-to-basics camping adventure, Blue Ridge Campground offers an ideal and memorable experience right in their backyard, making it a truly cherished regional gem.

Blue Ridge Campground

E Blue Ridge Rd, Wrightwood, CA 92397, USA