Glenn Camp Campground

For Californians seeking an authentic wilderness experience, a break from the urban sprawl, and a chance to reconnect with nature, Glenn Camp Campground in Azusa offers an unparalleled opportunity. Nestled within the breathtaking Angeles National Forest, this unique campground provides a secluded and immersive outdoor adventure, accessible primarily by foot or bike. It’s a true gem for those who appreciate the tranquility and challenge of backcountry camping, allowing you to truly disconnect and embrace the natural beauty of Southern California.

Unlike typical drive-up campgrounds, Glenn Camp Campground emphasizes a more rugged, leave-no-trace approach, making it a favorite among hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone looking for a deeper connection with the wilderness. While it requires a bit more effort to reach, the reward is a pristine environment, clear skies for stargazing, and the soothing sounds of the San Gabriel River nearby. This article will guide you through what makes Glenn Camp Campground a suitable and rewarding destination for local outdoor enthusiasts, detailing its location, available amenities, and the unique features that set it apart.

Glenn Camp Campground is located at Devils Canyon Dam Truck Trail, Azusa, CA 91702, USA, deep within the Angeles National Forest. Its distinctive location means it is not directly accessible by vehicle for most visitors. Instead, it operates as a hike-in or bike-in campground, situated approximately 6.5 miles behind a locked gate. This intentional limitation on vehicular access preserves the natural integrity of the area, ensuring a more peaceful and less crowded camping experience.

The primary access route is a scenic trail that serves as a designated National Scenic Bikeway, making it a popular choice for mountain bikers. The journey to the campground, whether on foot or by bike, is part of the adventure itself, offering stunning views and a gradual immersion into the forest landscape. While challenging, the 6.5-mile trek allows campers to truly earn their wilderness retreat. It's important to note that physically challenged groups may obtain a special permit through the Glendora office to drive to the campground, offering a more inclusive approach to accessibility.

Despite its secluded feel, Glenn Camp Campground is surprisingly close to the populated areas of Southern California. Azusa, a city in Los Angeles County, serves as the gateway to this section of the Angeles National Forest. This proximity means that while you'll feel miles away from civilization, essential supplies and emergency services are within a reasonable distance. The campground's setting along the San Gabriel River further enhances its appeal, providing a natural water source (which must be treated before use) and opportunities for riverside relaxation.

Glenn Camp Campground offers a more rustic camping experience, aligning with its backcountry nature. The services provided are designed to support essential needs while encouraging self-sufficiency and minimal impact on the environment.

• Campsites: The campground features 10 designated campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring/BBQ pedestal, perfect for cooking and gathering.
• Water Source: A nearby stream provides a water source. It is crucial to remember that this water must be treated (boiled, filtered, or chemically purified) before consumption.
• Toilets: Vault (non-flush) toilets are available on-site, though one recent review noted they were "pretty disgusting," suggesting they may require improved maintenance. It's wise to be prepared with your own hygiene supplies.
• Fishing: The San Gabriel River, located nearby, offers opportunities for native trout fishing. Specific regulations apply, with catch and keep allowed from the gate to the second bridge, and catch and release from the second bridge upstream to Cogswell Reservoir. A California State fishing license is required.
• Accessible Fishing Platforms: The campground area includes several accessible fishing platforms, demonstrating an effort to make the activity enjoyable for a wider range of visitors.

It's important for prospective campers to understand that this is a primitive campground. There are no showers, hookups for RVs, or general store services within the campground itself. Campers are expected to pack in and pack out all their supplies and trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

Glenn Camp Campground boasts several features that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts in California. Its unique characteristics contribute to a truly memorable camping experience.

• Hike-in/Bike-in Access: This is arguably the most defining feature. The 6.5-mile journey ensures a quieter, more secluded environment, free from the noise and traffic of drive-in campgrounds. This also means it's an excellent training ground for backpackers and long-distance cyclists.
• Natural Beauty and Serenity: Situated within the Angeles National Forest, the campground is surrounded by lush natural landscapes, providing a serene escape. The proximity to the San Gabriel River adds to the picturesque setting and offers opportunities for cooling off during warmer months.
• Fishing Opportunities: With dedicated fishing areas and platforms, it’s a great spot for anglers looking to enjoy native trout fishing in a natural river setting.
• Designated National Scenic Bikeway: The access road to the campground is a recognized scenic bikeway, offering an enjoyable and rewarding ride for cyclists of all levels.
• Affordable Camping: While an Adventure Pass ($5/vehicle/day) is required for parking at the trailhead, there are no additional camping fees for staying at Glenn Camp Campground, making it a budget-friendly option for extended stays.
• Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: The remote location and minimal light pollution provide excellent opportunities for observing local wildlife and enjoying incredibly clear, starry nights.

A customer review highlights, "Beautiful, clean campground. San Gabriel River near by. Fishing platform for fishing. You have to bike in or hike in with your gear. It's about 6.5 miles to the campground from your car." This underscores the scenic appeal and the unique access requirements. Another review warns, "Beware of aggressive drivers who work at the Dam. They are very disrespectful, drive way too fast and on the weekends. The place is closed on weekdays until the debris removal is complete but open on weekends only. There are conflicting reports if the area is open beginning Friday evening." This advises caution regarding potential vehicle traffic related to the dam and confirms the typical weekend-only access, though it’s always best to call ahead for current conditions.

For the most current information regarding conditions, access, and any permits required (such as a California Campfire Permit, which is essential, though fire restrictions may apply), it is always best to contact the Angeles National Forest directly.

Address: Devils Canyon Dam Truck Trail, Azusa, CA 91702, USA

Phone: (626) 335-1251

Mobile Phone: +1 626-335-1251

It's highly recommended to call the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument District office at the provided number for up-to-date information on closures, especially concerning weekday access or fire restrictions, which can change frequently in California.

For Californians, especially those residing in the Greater Los Angeles area, Glenn Camp Campground offers an accessible yet profoundly immersive outdoor experience that caters to a desire for true wilderness. Its hike-in/bike-in nature immediately filters out casual visitors, ensuring a quieter, more pristine environment for those willing to make the effort. This makes it ideal for locals who have already explored more conventional campgrounds and are looking for a deeper connection with the state's natural landscapes without traveling extensively.

The campground’s proximity to the San Gabriel River and its clear fishing regulations make it a local favorite for anglers seeking native trout. Furthermore, the scenic bikeway leading to the camp provides an excellent training ground and recreational opportunity for the active Californian lifestyle. It’s a place where you can truly escape the urban bustle, enjoy uninterrupted stargazing, and revel in the sounds of nature, all within a relatively short distance from major population centers.

While the rustic facilities and access limitations require a certain level of preparedness and a "pack it in, pack it out" mentality, these very aspects are what appeal to the local outdoor community. Glenn Camp Campground embodies the spirit of California’s wild side, offering an authentic backcountry experience that encourages self-reliance and a deep appreciation for the protected wilderness of the Angeles National Forest. For a true escape and an adventurous camping trip, Glenn Camp Campground is an excellent choice for Southern California residents.

Glenn Camp Campground

Devils Canyon Dam Truck Trail, Azusa, CA 91702, USA