Bear Campground
02 reviews12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road, San Fernando, CA 91342
Bear Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Overnight use fee is $12 per single site per night, which includes 8 people and 1 vehicle. Additional vehicles are $5 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders are eligible for a 50% discount on single campsites only. Payment is accepted via cash or check.
About this campground
Escape into the untamed wilderness at Bear Campground, a secluded primitive retreat tucked deep within Angeles National Forest. This hike-in sanctuary rewards adventurous souls with seven intimate campsites, each thoughtfully furnished with sturdy picnic tables and traditional fire rings for those cherished campfire moments. Here, you'll experience camping in its purest form—no running water, no restrooms, and no trash services mean you'll truly disconnect from modern conveniences. Pack your water bottles full and your backpack light, as everything you bring in must journey back out with you on this authentic wilderness adventure.
Bear Campground is a primitive camping site accessible only by hikers or bikers. It features seven designated campsites with picnic tables and fire rings.
Historical SignificanceBear Campground stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of simple, unadorned camping experiences that have drawn outdoor enthusiasts to these mountains for generations.
Weather and SeasonsBear Campground welcomes intrepid campers throughout all four seasons, offering dramatically different experiences as the calendar turns. Winter transforms this high-country escape into a crisp wonderland where temperatures plunge to bone-chilling levels—perfect for those who relish the sharp bite of mountain air. As summer arrives, the landscape basks under warm, golden sunshine that invites lazy afternoons and starlit evenings. While Mother Nature occasionally surprises visitors with a dusting of snow or refreshing rain showers, these meteorological treats remain delightfully uncommon, making each occurrence a memorable wilderness moment.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation that offers expansive views and crisp, clean air, Bear Campground provides that authentic high-country camping experience beloved by wilderness enthusiasts.
Natural Features and SceneryThe raw, unfiltered beauty of Bear Campground reveals itself in its striking barren landscape—a dramatic departure from typical forested campgrounds. This exposed terrain offers unobstructed views of the surrounding wilderness and creates perfect conditions for spectacular sunrise and sunset photography. The sparse vegetation means shade is a precious commodity, so bring your own sun shelter to create comfortable base camps. Nature thrives here in unexpected ways, with industrious bumble bees buzzing through the wildflowers and tiny insects adding their own soundtrack to your wilderness experience.
Geological RegionNestled within the rugged expanse of Angeles National Forest, Bear Campground showcases the dramatic geological character of Southern California's mountain backbone. The campground's distinctive barren terrain tells the story of ancient geological forces, creating an almost lunar landscape that contrasts beautifully with distant forested peaks. This unique ecosystem supports a fascinating array of native pollinators, including abundant bumble bees that dance among the sparse wildflowers, while smaller insects create a gentle hum that becomes the natural white noise of your wilderness retreat.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is hike-in only, with access via a 5-mile trail from Atmore Meadows Road. Accessibility options for individuals with disabilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of seven campsites. Specific site sizes are not detailed, but users report challenges in finding level ground for tents.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as clean and quiet, offering a secluded experience due to its remote location and low visitation.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites down from the ridge to minimize wind but be prepared for steep terrain and finding level ground for tents.
Best CampsitesNo specific sites mentioned as best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours
Check-out
Open 24 hours
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned in authoritative sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8people per site
Groups
No group camping provisions are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSeven designated campsites, hike-in only.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round
Reservation PlatformsReservations may be available; no specific platform details provided.
Walk-in AvailabilityHike-in only; no specific walk-up information provided.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Limited recreational activities are available due to the primitive nature of the campground. Options include OHV road riding, picnicking at the seven sites, and hiking into the campground.
Hiking
Access to the campground is via a 5-mile hike from the road. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) offers hiking opportunities, but some sections are overgrown or washed away.Biking
Cyclists can bike into the campground using nearby forest roads, though conditions may include closed gates and washouts.Wildlife viewing
The campground is situated in a remote area, potentially offering wildlife viewing opportunities. However, users emphasize the presence of insects, rodents, and small mammals.Winter Activities
Winter visits may offer solitude and relief from insects, but camping conditions are primitive.Water Sports
No facilities or support for water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions apply during extreme and critical conditions, prohibiting campfires and portable stoves.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears, sharp rocks on roads, and small in-ground rodents that are abundant in the area but generally do not disturb campers.
Active alertsGate to Bear Campground is closed as of August 2023; hike-in only access.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.3 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
Los Angeles Gateway District Ranger Station (Address: 12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road, San Fernando, CA 91342, Phone: (818) 899-1900)
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season dates explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available. Campers are required to carry out all waste (Pack In-Pack Out).
Proximity to water featuresNo piped water available; bring sufficient water for cooking, cleaning, and drinking.
Common complaints'No visible footprints or activity other than tractor marks from the forest service,' as per user review. Lack of toilets and trash facilities is noted.
HostNo campground host information mentioned.
Campground Map
12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road, San Fernando, CA 91342
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5 in Castaic, turn northeast on Lake Hughes Rd. and drive 27 miles to the town of Lake Hughes. Turn left on Pine Canyon Rd. and drive to Sawmill Mountain (northwest) on Sawmill Mountain-Liebre Ridge Rd. (Forest Service Road 7N23) and drive about 10 miles to the campground.
The road (7N23) is in decent condition as of August 2023, with dry roads and sharp rocks/gravel. User review mentions: 'My Ford Fusion got up with no issues. Recommend an SUV if you want zero fuss, but any car can make it up if you just be careful.'Nearby places
Lake Hughes (~27 miles, ~45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
San Fernando (~27 miles away) for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Pack in-pack out policy applies for trash.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Bear Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's primitive nature and secluded setting. It is praised for solitude but criticized for lack of maintenance and challenging access.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the remote and quiet environment, the presence of picnic tables and fire rings, and the clean condition of the campground.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include broken or missing signage, insect infestation (particularly bumblebees), lack of level ground for tents, and overgrown trails.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend carrying plenty of water, preparing for insects and rodents, and ensuring vehicles are suitable for rugged roads. Hiking boots and Leave No Trace principles are emphasized.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter tends to reduce insect activity and provide quieter camping experiences, though access and cold temperatures may pose challenges. Summer sees more insect issues and heat but remains quiet due...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground in of itself is a great site. I was likely the ONLY person on the entire mountain." (Ryan)
"Finding level ground for a tent was a challenge." (So Cal Joe)
"Be ready for bumblebees and...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No detailed reviews tied to specific campsite numbers are available.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews addressing pet policies or experiences are available.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025