Chilao Campground

Hello, fellow Californians! Are you longing for a refreshing escape into nature, a place where the air is crisp, the stars are bright, and the sounds of the city fade into a distant memory? Look no further than Chilao Campground, a cherished gem nestled high in the Angeles National Forest. For those of us living in the bustling urban centers of Southern California, Chilao offers an incredibly accessible yet wonderfully wild outdoor experience. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and recharge, whether you're pitching a tent, bringing your RV, or simply seeking a tranquil spot for a night under the pines. Join us as we explore what makes Chilao Campground a top choice for locals seeking a genuine wilderness adventure.

California is celebrated for its diverse landscapes, and the Angeles National Forest, right in our backyard, provides a stunning mountainous retreat. Chilao Campground perfectly embodies the spirit of this majestic forest. As many local campers have discovered, it's "Awesome place to camp! Close-ish to the city," offering a convenient yet immersive experience. The sense of having "the forest to yourself," as one thrilled visitor described, is a powerful draw for those yearning for solitude. We Californians appreciate the ease of finding a peaceful haven that still offers essential amenities and a unique, trust-based check-in system. Chilao Campground delivers on the promise of a memorable and authentic camping trip, where the natural beauty is the main attraction.

Chilao Campground is situated on an unnamed road near Palmdale, CA 93550, USA, deep within the Angeles National Forest. While its address might seem a bit vague, its primary access is via the scenic Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2). From Los Angeles, simply take the I-210 freeway to La Cañada Flintridge and then follow Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2) northeast for approximately 25 miles. You'll see signs for the campground; if you pass the Chilao Visitor Center, you've gone a bit too far.

The accessibility of Chilao Campground is one of its most appealing features for Californians. Despite feeling wonderfully remote at an elevation of 5,300 feet, it's less than an hour's drive from many parts of Los Angeles. This makes it an ideal destination for spontaneous weekend trips or even a quick mid-week overnight escape. Reviews highlight that "If my Ford Focus can make it easily you can too," emphasizing that the drive up the "long twisty road" (Angeles Crest Highway) does not involve off-roading or fire roads, making it accessible for most vehicles. This combination of convenient proximity and a truly high-mountain, forested setting is a significant advantage for locals seeking an immediate and immersive outdoor experience without extensive travel. It’s important to note that while generally accessible, winter conditions can sometimes affect road access, so it's always wise to check current road statuses.

• Campsites with Tables: 84 single-family campsites are available across two loops (Little Pine and Manzanita), each equipped with a picnic table.

• Fire Rings and Grills: Every campsite includes a fire ring with a grill, allowing for campfires (when permitted) and outdoor cooking.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, with toilet paper consistently stocked.

• Trash Collection: Dumpsters and trash receptacles are provided for convenient waste disposal, helping to keep the campground clean.

• Honor System Check-in: The campground operates largely on an honor system for payment; campers fill out a tag, place money (cash is recommended) in an envelope, and deposit it in a box.

• Accessible Campsites: Some campsites are designated as ADA accessible.

• Visitor Center Nearby: The Chilao Visitor Center is located just 1.5 miles east of the campground, offering information and exhibits (open weekends).

• Limited Cell Service: While not full service, fair cell service is available in certain areas.

• No Potable Water: Campers must bring all their own drinking water, as potable water is generally not available at the campground (though some older information might suggest otherwise, current reviews consistently state no running water).

• No Hookups: There are no RV hookups (electric, water, sewer) available at the campsites.

• High Elevation & Scenic Views: Situated at 5,300 feet, Chilao offers majestic panoramas of Vetter Lookout and Big Tujunga Canyon, providing a refreshing escape from the city smog.

• Quiet & Secluded Atmosphere: Despite its relative proximity to LA, the campground often feels empty and provides a profound sense of solitude, especially during weekdays.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: Direct access to the Silver Moccasin Trail, a 53-mile long-distance trail, as well as numerous other hiking and biking opportunities nearby.

• Unique Honor System: The relaxed, trust-based check-in system adds to the laid-back camping experience.

• Good for All Vehicles: Easily accessible by paved roads, including regular cars like a Ford Focus, with no off-roading required.

• Cold Nights (Bring Gear!): While beautiful, nights can get very cold, even in summer, providing a true mountain camping experience and encouraging campers to prepare accordingly.

• Wildlife Viewing: The area is very active with wildlife, including bears (so secure food!), offering opportunities for nature observation.

• Visitor Center & Interpretive Trails: The nearby Chilao Visitor Center provides educational resources and short interpretive trails, enhancing the understanding of the local ecosystem.

• Stargazing Opportunities: The clear mountain air and distance from city lights make it an excellent spot for stargazing.

• Affordable: At typically $12-20 per night (check current rates, as they may increase), it's a very economical option for a quality camping experience, with discounts for Interagency Senior/Access Passes.

For inquiries, up-to-date conditions, or information regarding Chilao Campground, you can use the following contact details. Keep in mind that as part of the Angeles National Forest, specific details about individual campsites or immediate conditions might be best found through official forest service channels or recent visitor reports.

Phone: (626) 574-1613 (This is a general Angeles National Forest Supervisor's Office number, which can direct you or provide information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 626-574-1613

Chilao Visitor Center (Weekends only): (626) 796-5541

Address: Unnamed road, Palmdale, CA 93550, USA (This is the general address; use Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2) for direct navigation.)

It's highly advisable to check the Angeles National Forest website or call one of the listed numbers for current conditions, especially concerning fire restrictions, road closures, and water availability, as these can change seasonally.

For us Californians, Chilao Campground stands out as an exceptional and accessible retreat into the true wilderness of the Angeles National Forest. We appreciate the ability to escape the urban grind without an arduous journey, and Chilao delivers precisely that. Its location, a relatively short and straightforward drive from the sprawling metropolises of Southern California, makes it an ideal destination for quick weekend getaways or even spontaneous overnight trips. The fact that any standard vehicle can make the drive up the winding Angeles Crest Highway is a huge plus, removing barriers to entry for many eager campers.

What truly sets Chilao apart for locals is its unique blend of accessibility and genuine solitude. As one reviewer noted, the campground can be "EMPTY when we went," providing an incredible sense of having "the forest to yourself." This quietude, combined with the "beautiful Silver Moccasin Trail" directly connecting to the campground, means ample opportunities for hiking, exploration, and connecting with nature. The high elevation brings cooler temperatures, a welcome respite from the California heat, though it certainly calls for proper gear to handle the "very cold at night."

The honor system check-in adds a charming, trusting element to the experience, making the process smooth and laid-back. While running water might not always be available (so bring your own!), the presence of clean vault toilets with "always toilet paper" demonstrates a commitment to essential comforts. At typically around $12-20 a night, Chilao offers an incredibly affordable gateway to a rich outdoor experience, complete with stunning views, abundant hiking, and even tadpoles in the creek during certain seasons. It’s more than just a place to set up camp; it’s a readily available slice of wild California, perfect for refreshing the soul and creating lasting memories right in our beloved home state.

Chilao Campground

unnamed road, Palmdale, CA 93550, USA