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Angeles/Chilao
Overview
Overview
Chilao Campground, located within the Angeles National Forest, offers a rustic escape for those looking to disconnect from city life. Situated at an elevation of 5,300 feet, the campground provides a cooling mountain atmosphere surrounded by towering pine trees and high-desert terrain. It serves as a classic National Forest experience, prioritizing the natural environment over modern resort comforts. This area is perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic mountain views and the quiet solitude of the San Gabriel Mountains away from the busy suburban bustle of nearby Palmdale.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is nestled along the Angeles Crest Highway, making it a gateway to the high country of the Angeles National Forest. While the terrain is rugged, the location offers a unique transition between Southern California deserts and lush alpine ecosystems. The area is defined by its winding mountain roads and expansive vistas that change with the seasons. Travelers should be prepared for a drive that features significant elevation changes, which rewards visitors with crisp air and a dramatic, rugged landscape.
Amenities & Park Features
Chilao is designed for those who prefer a traditional camping experience. The site provides essential facilities, including vault toilets and picnic tables, while maintaining a focus on preservation. Most sites are shaded, offering spacious pull-through options that accommodate various trailer sizes, although travelers should check specific site dimensions before arrival. There are no full utility hookups, so visitors must arrive prepared with water and power, making it an excellent spot for self-contained RVs looking for a tranquil wilderness stay.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for recreation right outside their RV door. The surrounding forest is home to numerous hiking trails, including paths that lead to stunning overlooks and unique rock formations. Bird watchers and nature photographers often frequent the area for its diverse wildlife and quiet forest trails. The proximity to the Chilao Visitor Center provides helpful information on local ecology and regional history, ensuring guests can make the most of their exploration throughout the Angeles National Forest area.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and weekend warriors who value peace and quiet over high-end amenities. It is a fantastic choice for those who are self-contained and seeking simplicity in a stunning mountain setting. Because the park lacks electrical hookups and modern resort features, it caters primarily to those who are comfortable with dry camping. If you enjoy waking up to the smell of pine and want a basecamp for mountain adventure, Chilao is an exceptional choice.
Features & Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Jen Brett
We stayed here for one night, Fri - Sat and it was perfect. No noise complaints, everything seemed pretty quiet on our side by 10pm. Be aware there is no cell service in the area for AT&T or Verizon. I would expect that backpacking but at an established campsite was a surprise. We essentially lost coverage as soon as we hit the ACH. We were able to connect to a satellite to text our family we had arrived.
Andy Hall
On the weekend, bring earplugs if you want to sleep. The chill party vibe is very cool about 8pm with folks hanging out at all the spots. Some people even come, set up a dinner hang, and leave without actually camping. But about midnight if you want to sleep you could be next to a crew that just won't STFU. Beautiful spot though. Would be an all-timer if quiet hours were enforced.
DAISUKE OKAMOTO (OKAINA IMAGE)
One of the best breakfast of the year! This place is located at the top of done of mountains and the view is magnificent. So beautiful and chili place. Thank you Chilao!
Khelekheru
Awesome place to camp! Close-ish to the city, with toilet stalls (no running water this time of year). Gets very cold at night, so bring the right gear! Beautiful Silver Mocassin Trail connects directly to the campground.
Mc PaulCommander
Great sights and a great time. It didn't have running water but it was the middle of the summer. The restrooms were vault toilets so they could only be so clean but, every single one always had toilet paper. The check in system was interesting (in a good way) it was mostly based off the honor system where you fill out a tag with how long you'll be there put the money in an envelope then put it in a box. Make sure you bring cash and a pen. It was EMPTY when we went, and I mean it. I expected it to be a little crammed in summer but in total there were four other people at the entire site. It was amazing as once you walk away it's like you have the forest to yourself. There are loads of hiking trails, a visitor center nearby, and a creek which was stuffed with tadpoles this time of the year... for 12 dollars a night. If you can handle the long twisty drive up I highly suggestyou go! There are no off-roading or fire roads involved to get to the site so take any vehicle you want. If my Ford focus can make it easily you can too.