Gould Mesa Trail Camp

Hey there, fellow Californians! Are you seeking an accessible yet rewarding backpacking adventure that still keeps you connected to the natural beauty right in our own backyard? Look no further than Gould Mesa Trail Camp, a fantastic destination nestled within the Angeles National Forest. This article is crafted especially for you, the local explorer, providing a comprehensive overview of this unique trail camp, from its prime location to the immersive experiences it offers.

Gould Mesa Trail Camp offers a distinctive blend of convenience and wilderness, making it an ideal spot for those new to backpacking or anyone looking for a quick and refreshing escape. Situated directly along the renowned Gabrielino Trail, it serves as a gateway to stunning natural scenery, the soothing sounds of a flowing stream, and the simple pleasures of outdoor living. While it provides a rustic camping experience, its proximity to urban areas means you don't have to venture far to feel completely immersed in nature. It's a testament to the diverse outdoor opportunities available right here in Southern California.

Gould Mesa Trail Camp is conveniently located at Gould Mesa, Arroyo Blvd, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011, USA. This address places it squarely within the Angeles National Forest, yet remarkably close to the northern reaches of the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. For residents across Southern California, from the San Gabriel Valley to Ventura County, its accessibility makes it an excellent choice for a weekend backpacking trip or even a challenging day hike with an overnight stay.

The accessibility of Gould Mesa Trail Camp is one of its standout features, particularly for beginner backpackers. The trail in is approximately 2.5 miles, making it a manageable distance for those new to carrying their gear. The initial mile, while more urban in feel, quickly transitions into a beautiful and shady path along a stream for the last 1.5 miles. Along the trail, you'll encounter three stream crossings, which add to the adventure and natural immersion. While the trail is well-trafficked by hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, it remains a pleasant journey. Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, as stream crossings can be more challenging after heavy rains. Despite its wilderness feel, its relatively close proximity to the city offers a comforting sense of security for those venturing into the backcountry.

Gould Mesa Trail Camp provides essential services and amenities designed to support a rustic backpacking experience. While it's not a full-service campground, it offers enough to ensure a comfortable stay for those prepared for a more primitive setting.

• Designated Backpacking Sites: The campground features approximately 6 sites in total, offering dedicated spaces for setting up camp.
• Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy campfires for warmth and cooking (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Vault Toilets: The camp provides vault toilets, offering a basic but functional restroom facility for campers. It's advisable to bring your own toilet paper, as it may not always be stocked.
• Bear Safe Trash Cans: Bear-safe trash cans are available for waste disposal, encouraging responsible waste management and protecting wildlife. However, be aware that these can occasionally overflow, so packing out what you pack in is always the best practice.
• Picnic Tables/Seating Logs: While not every site has a picnic table, some sites do, and others offer convenient logs for seating by the fire.
• Horse Hitching Areas: For equestrians, there are several places available to hitch a horse, making it a friendly destination for those exploring the trails on horseback.

Gould Mesa Trail Camp offers several unique features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Southern California outdoor enthusiasts:

• Beginner-Friendly Backpacking Site: Its relatively short and manageable trail in (2.5 miles) makes it an excellent choice for individuals or families new to backpacking, offering a taste of the backcountry without an overly strenuous trek.
• Direct Access to Gabrielino Trail: The campsite is located right along the popular Gabrielino Trail, providing immediate access to extensive hiking, running, and mountain biking opportunities.
• Close Proximity to Water (Stream): A wonderfully cool and refreshing stream runs just beside the campground, offering a soothing ambient sound and a place to cool off (remember to pack water shoes if you plan on exploring the stream).
• Scenic Stream-Side Trail: The latter portion of the trail leading to the camp is beautiful and shady, following the winding path of the stream, providing a picturesque approach.
• Trail Amenities: Along the Gabrielino Trail leading to the camp, you'll find helpful amenities such as bridges, additional picnic tables, stone walls, and benches for resting, enhancing the hiking experience.
• Rustic Charm: The camp provides a genuine rustic camping experience, offering a simple and authentic way to connect with nature away from crowded, amenity-heavy campgrounds.
• Proximity to the City: Despite its wilderness setting, the camp's relatively close location to urban areas makes it incredibly convenient for Southern California locals seeking a quick nature escape.

For direct inquiries and to confirm current conditions, trail information, or any specific requirements, you can reach the relevant authorities for Gould Mesa Trail Camp using the following contact information:

Address: Gould Mesa, Arroyo Blvd, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011, USA

Phone: (818) 899-1900

Mobile Phone: +1 818-899-1900

Gould Mesa Trail Camp is an outstanding choice for Southern California locals for numerous compelling reasons. Its primary appeal lies in its perfect balance of accessibility and genuine wilderness experience. For residents of Los Angeles and surrounding areas, the short 2.5-mile hike in means that a true backpacking adventure is within easy reach, even for a quick weekend getaway. This makes it an ideal stepping stone for those new to backpacking, allowing them to test their gear and skills without committing to a multi-day, strenuous trek.

The camp's location directly on the Gabrielino Trail is another significant advantage, offering endless opportunities for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking directly from your campsite. The presence of the cool, refreshing stream running alongside the camp provides a serene backdrop and a natural playground, especially for families with children. Furthermore, the rustic nature of the camp, with its fire rings and vault toilets, offers a chance to truly disconnect and appreciate the simpler aspects of outdoor life, away from the constant demands of technology and city living.

In essence, Gould Mesa Trail Camp serves as a vital local resource, providing an authentic and attainable backcountry experience for the Southern California community. It allows individuals and families to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Angeles National Forest, enjoy physical activity, and create lasting memories, all just a short distance from their everyday lives.

Gould Mesa Trail Camp

Gould Mesa, Arroyo Blvd, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011, USA