Mountain Oak
4.3673 reviews22223 BIG PINES HWY, N4
Mountain Oak
$30.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $30 to $60 per site during the peak season (May 9 to October 29, 2025). Additional reservation service fees include $8 online, $9 via contact center, and $3 in-person reservations.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Angeles National Forest, Mountain Oak Campground beckons as a tranquil sanctuary where towering pines whisper ancient secrets. This intimate, single-loop campground offers an authentic wilderness experience just steps from the sparkling waters of Jackson Lake. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across mirror-like waters, or setting off on scenic mountain trails, this shaded retreat promises adventure seekers and peace lovers alike a chance to reconnect with nature's rhythms.
Mountain Oak Campground is designed for tent camping, with limited accommodations for RVs due to small site sizes and narrow roads. Primitive camping is available, as noted in reviews highlighting the lack of frills.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains have witnessed millennia of change, their very foundations shaped by the powerful forces of the San Andreas Fault. Today's campers follow in the footsteps of countless adventurers, with the legendary Pacific Crest Trail weaving its historic thread through nearby landscapes. This storied pathway has carried the dreams of through-hikers and weekend warriors alike, adding your own chapter to the mountain's ongoing narrative.
Weather and SeasonsMountain nights here dance with wind songs that sweep through the pine canopy, while sun-drenched days bring gentle warmth perfect for outdoor adventures. As seasons shift, so do the mountain's moods—spring and summer offer ideal conditions, though wise campers come prepared for those characteristic evening breezes that can turn brisk. Fire restrictions often accompany the drier months, reminding visitors of the delicate balance between wilderness and preservation. Pack layers and secure your gear well; the mountain winds have stories to tell.
ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet where the air grows crisp and pine-scented, Mountain Oak Campground offers a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations. This lofty vantage point gifts visitors with naturally cooled temperatures and that special quality of mountain light that makes everything seem clearer, brighter, and somehow more alive.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of oak, ponderosa, and sugar pines creates a verdant canopy overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Just across the way, Jackson Lake sparkles like a jewel set in emerald, its grass-fringed shores and sandy beaches inviting lazy afternoons of contemplation or play. At 6,400 feet, this mountain ecosystem thrives with diverse wildlife and ever-changing vistas that shift from misty morning revelations to golden sunset showcases.
Geological RegionThe campground sits within the dramatic landscape of Angeles National Forest's San Gabriel Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a masterpiece of peaks and valleys. Jackson Lake, a serene alpine gem fed primarily by pristine snow runoff, owes its very existence to the San Andreas Fault's earth-shaping power. This fascinating intersection of geology and ecology creates a unique environment where oak, ponderosa, and sugar pine forests flourish, offering visitors a front-row seat to millions of years of natural history written in stone and water.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBear-proof food containers are available at each campsite. Restrooms are spaced to make them accessible from all campsites. Ground cover consists mostly of pine needles and leaves, and there are large rocks, which may pose challenges for mobility-impaired guests.
Sites SizeSites are generally described as small. Some reviewers noted difficulty maneuvering larger RVs or trailers due to narrow roads. Site sizes vary, with some spaces accommodating large tents or multiple small tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is minimal due to the single-loop design and proximity of campsites. Reviewers frequently mentioned sites being close together with little natural separation.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, avoid sites close to the road. Sites #8-10 are considered ideal for group camping.
Best CampsitesCamp #5 is praised for its proximity to the host and restroom facilities. Site #14 is recommended for its spaciousness and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle-loop layout with sites arranged close together. Ground cover consists of pine needles and leaves.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9 to October 29, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground has first-come, first-served sites available. Walk-up availability varies based on peak seasons and fire restrictions.
Cancellation PolicyStandard cancellation fee of $10 plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Changes outside original reservation dates incur a $10 fee. Contact the facility for additional late modifications.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mountain Oak Campground offers a wide array of recreational activities including hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and fishing. It is directly across from Jackson Lake, which is praised for its peaceful environment and suitability for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for stocked trout and bluegills.
Hiking
Hiking trails near the campground include access to popular routes like the Pacific Crest Trail and Blue Ridge Trail. Trail information is available at the nearby visitor center, as noted by users.Fishing
Jackson Lake, located directly across from the campground, offers fishing opportunities for trout and bluegills. Some reviewers noted the lake's water levels fluctuate seasonally.Swimming
Swimming is permitted at Jackson Lake, although users mentioned cold water temperatures and some areas of the lake appearing swamp-like.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities at Jackson Lake. Powerboating is prohibited, ensuring a quiet atmosphere.Wildlife viewing
Angeles National Forest is home to diverse wildlife including bobcats, mountain lions, bears, and bighorn sheep. Bird watching is also popular in the area.Winter Activities
The area experiences cold temperatures and occasional wind advisories during winter months, which may affect usability for activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available at Jackson Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions are enforced seasonally. "No open fires at this time but it makes sense." - User review.
- Quiet hours enforced, typically from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, and high winds can pose challenges. Drinking water from spigots is unsafe unless boiled.
Active alertsFrequent fire restrictions during dry seasons. No open flames, including portable stoves, are occasionally enforced.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Wrightwood, including clinics and police services. Hospitals are in Palmdale or San Bernardino.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 to October 29, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided, and facilities are well-maintained by the host.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly across from Jackson Lake, a 3-acre lake suitable for canoeing and swimming.
Common complaintsComplaints include overcrowded sites, fire restrictions, and non-potable water. "The water from the spigots is NOT POTABLE!!" - LauraSD.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, offering amenities like firewood and trail maps. "Dave the host is really the nicest person." - User review.
Campground Map
22223 BIG PINES HWY, N4
Driving directionsFrom Wrightwood, CA, take State Rt. 2 west 2.4 miles to Palmdale/Jackson Lake sign (County Rt. N4/Pines Highway). Turn right onto Rt. N4 and go 3.1 miles to campground sign. Turn right into campground.
Accessible by paved roads year-round, but caution is advised regarding fire restrictions or closures due to seasonal conditions.Nearby places
Wrightwood (approximately 15 minutes drive), Palmdale (approximately 45 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Wrightwood, which has a grocery store and restaurants approximately 15 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
73 reviews
Mountain Oak is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Mountain Oak Campground highlight its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and close proximity to Jackson Lake. Positive aspects include the well-maintained flush toilets, helpful campsite host, and scenic hiking trails nearby. Common complaints involve water quality issues, small campsite sizes, and restrictions on campfires during dry seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 73 reviews
What Campers Love
Bathrooms are frequently praised for their cleanliness and maintenance, flush toilets provide added comfort, proximity to Jackson Lake allows easy access to fishing and swimming, and the helpful...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Most reviewers criticized the water quality, stating it is not potable and requires boiling before use. Additional complaints include minimal privacy between campsites, the small size of sites, and...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing potable water or a water filtration system, packing for cold nighttime temperatures and wind, and confirming fire restrictions before arrival. They also suggest securing...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the peaceful setting and warm days but warn of mosquito activity. Winter reviews emphasize the cold temperatures and occasional restrictions on fire use. Spring and fall are...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground host was delightful and bathrooms were very clean." - LauraSD
"The water is not safe to drink, and you’ll need to boil it." - Mariam J
"Flush toilets are a great plus, but some...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5 is noted for its proximity to restrooms and quiet atmosphere during wind advisories. Site 17 is praised for its spaciousness and seclusion.
Based on 73 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features include bear-proof bins and restrooms spaced evenly across the campground. However, uneven ground cover may pose challenges for guests with mobility concerns.
Based on 73 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is often described as pet-friendly. Users noted their dogs enjoyed hiking trails in the area.
Based on 73 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025