Chilao Campground

Star4.44
201 reviews
In La Canada, CA, at the intersection of I-210 and Angeles Crest Hwy. (State Rt. 2), take Rt. 2 east 25.6 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.1 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear left for Little Pine Loop or right, continuing another 0.6 miles to Manzanita Loop on the left.

Quick Facts

5,500 ft

Price

$12 - $20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

84 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website
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Chilao Campground
$12.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Overnight use fees are $12 per night until May 1, 2025, when the fee will increase to $20 per site. The fee includes one vehicle and up to eight...
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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

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USFS
Provider
(661) 269-2808
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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 201 reviews

177 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlocation

"Reviews for Chilao Campground are generally positive, highlighting its proximity to Los Angeles, scenic views, and relaxed atmosphere. However, some issues such as noise from other campers, lack of potable water, and seasonal pests like yellow jackets and flies are noted."

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Campground Map

In La Canada, CA, at the intersection of I-210 and Angeles Crest Hwy. (State Rt. 2), take Rt. 2 east 25.6 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.1 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear left for Little Pine Loop or right, continuing another 0.6 miles to Manzanita Loop on the left.

Chilao Campground

In La Canada, CA, at the intersection of I-210 and Angeles Crest Hwy. (State Rt. 2), take Rt. 2 east 25.6 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.1 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear left for Little Pine Loop or right, continuing another 0.6 miles to Manzanita Loop on the left.

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 210 in La Canada Flintridge, exit Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) and drive northeast for 26 miles to the signed campground on the left. Note: State Rt. 2, Angeles Crest Hwy., is a scenic mountain road with views far beyond the San Gabriel Mountains.
Road access is via State Route 2 (Angeles Crest Highway), which is a paved mountain road. The route includes scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and is accessible for all vehicles. Seasonal closures due to weather are possible, especially during winter.
Nearby places
La Canada (26 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and essentials are in La Canada Flintridge, located 26 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Chilao Campground

Chilao's mountain climate delivers the perfect balance of warm, sun-drenched days and refreshingly cool nights that make for ideal sleeping conditions. Summer visitors enjoy dry conditions with temperatures that can climb to a comfortable 80°F during the day before dropping to a crisp 43°F after sunset—perfect for campfire storytelling. As winter approaches, the campground transforms into a potential wonderland where snow may dust the peaks, though access can become an adventure in itself when mountain roads demand respect and proper preparation.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Summer is dry and warm but weekends tend to be busy/noisy and pests (yellow jackets, flies) increase.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall noted as one of the best seasons: good weather, quieter than summer.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring called a best season: balance of weather and activities, open and pleasant conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is seasonally open Apr 1–Nov 15; closed in winter per overview.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 1 - November 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open seasonally from April 1 through November 15, weather permitting.
  • Current Alerts: Fire use restrictions may be in place, prohibiting campfires and cooking stoves.

About Chilao Campground

Nestled high in the Angeles National Forest, Chilao Campground beckons adventurers with 84 thoughtfully positioned campsites spread across the Little Pines and Manzanita loops. This mountain retreat welcomes tent campers and small RV enthusiasts (up to 18 feet) seeking an authentic wilderness experience at 5,500 feet. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no running water, it compensates with breathtaking panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains, the historic Vetter Lookout, and the dramatic depths of Big Tujunga Canyon.
Chilao Campground caters primarily to tent campers but also accommodates RVs up to 18 feet in length. The campground is divided into two loops: Little Pines and Manzanita, with a total of 84 campsites.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Chilao Campground offers opportunities for day hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying scenic landscapes. The Silver Moccasin Trail is accessible from the campground, providing options for hiking and mountain biking.
HikingThe Silver Moccasin Trail, which spans 58 miles and connects to the Pacific Crest Trail, is accessible from Chilao Campground. Hikes range in difficulty, and the trail is popular for its scenic beauty and use by Boy Scouts.
BikingThe Silver Moccasin Trail is open for mountain biking, offering a rewarding experience for cyclists.
Wildlife viewingThe area is known for active wildlife, including birds and coyotes. Campers are advised to secure food properly to avoid encounters with animals like bears.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe nearby Chilao Visitor Center, located 1.5 miles away, offers exhibits, information about the area, and campfire programs. Availability may vary by season.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include bears, coyotes, and yellow jackets. Fire restrictions may limit cooking and campfires. Campers should secure food to avoid attracting wildlife.
Active AlertsFire use restrictions may be in place, prohibiting campfires and cooking stoves.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Chilao Campground

Reviews

4.4
201 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Chilao Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Chilao Campground are generally positive, highlighting its proximity to Los Angeles, scenic views, and relaxed atmosphere. However, some issues such as noise from other campers, lack of potable water, and seasonal pests like yellow jackets and flies are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 201 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's natural beauty, convenient location near Los Angeles, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The clean vault toilets and the presence of picnic tables and...
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Based on 201 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of potable water, noise from neighboring campsites, and challenges with pests like flies and yellow jackets. Some reviewers mentioned the effects of light pollution...
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Based on 201 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early to secure the best spots, especially those with shade. Bringing plenty of water and firewood is advised, as these are not provided. Visitors are also advised to...
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Based on 201 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer weekends tend to be busy and noisy, while winter provides a quieter experience but requires preparation for colder weather. Spring and fall are considered the best seasons for a balance of...
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Based on 201 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great place and scenery for only $12/ night and first come first served!" - Dave M. "The scenery is breathtaking higher up... Restrooms were clean and close by." - Vince Rosas. "The little pines...
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Based on 201 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Manzanita Loop is described as having better views but less shade compared to Little Pines. Specific sites like #16 and #17 are noted for their views and isolation.
Based on 201 reviews

Accessibility Features

The vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but no additional accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 201 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviews noted the presence of coyotes, so pet owners should exercise caution.
Based on 201 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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