L.A. County, known for being the most populated county in America, surprisingly offers an array of serene backcountry campgrounds, around 20 to choose from. This curated list organizes these sites based on the difficulty of the hike required to reach them, as well as the level of ‘roughing it’ each site entails.
Backpacking allows individuals to immerse themselves in nature, creating a temporary home within the forest. Moving away from the light pollution of the urban landscape reveals a brilliant night sky filled with stars, while the sounds of nature—croaking frogs, hooting owls, and morning birdsong—replace the city’s constant noise.
Escaping the hustle and bustle can be deeply restorative, and the good news is it’s more accessible than you might think.
The selected spots not only require a short drive but are also first come, first served. The roads leading to them are paved, and the trails are generally well-maintained, making them perfect for both seasoned adventurers and newcomers. Plus, the hikes to reach these campgrounds are aesthetically pleasing, taking you past vibrant wildflowers and towering native trees, like majestic pines and oaks, that provide shade along the way.
Each campground offers enough isolation to feel a world away from the city while still being populated enough to ensure you’re not completely alone in the wilderness. Admittedly, it’s unlikely you’ll have to tap into survival skills like the ones Bear Grylls might suggest—personal hydration tips included.
Reflecting on the mountains surrounding Los Angeles, one can’t help but think of the multitude of memories created there.
There was the time a coyote darted past the campfire at the Chilao campground, prompting my wife and me to shift our tent away from its route. Then there was the unforgettable moment with friends when we witnessed the pink glow of the northern lights from a remote parking lot, feeling nearly alone under their otherworldly brilliance. And I can’t forget the hike up Mt. Baldy with my dog, Maggie May, where I was met with laughter from fellow hikers for packing her an entire can of dog food for a celebratory lunch at the summit.
What makes living in Los Angeles particularly enjoyable is the proximity of the mountains. You can savor a meal from one of the city’s renowned restaurants and find yourself on a trail to a backcountry campsite within an hour.
The thrill of outdoor exploration never wanes, which is why I continually seek out the next adventure, especially through The Wild, our weekly newsletter dedicated to outdoor activities in California.
Yet, some destinations beckon for a repeat visit.
I find myself longing to return to the La Jolla Walk-In Camp, located within Point Mugu State Park, just off the famed Backbone Trail. Although the campsites are merely small patches carved from coastal sage scrub, the level of solitude and privacy is hard to replicate in nearby areas.
Another place on my list is the Cooper Canyon and Valley Forge trail camps. Both of these stunning campgrounds, nestled in Angeles National Forest, are adjacent to refreshing creeks—ideal spots for a post-hike swim.
For those who may not feel ready for backpacking adventures, car camping offers an excellent alternative.
Several campgrounds within a short drive from L.A. operate on a first come, first served basis, giving people the chance to escape for a relaxing weekend. One memorable afternoon, I stood on a cliffside admiring the beauty of Cooper Canyon Falls, a picturesque 25-foot waterfall near the Buckhorn campground, my favorite first come, first served spot in Angeles National Forest.
Maggie May was my loyal companion as we ventured further along the Burkhart Trail, my excitement amplified when I spotted tiny rainbow trout gliding in and out of the soft brown moss-filled creek, hiding from potential predators, including my curious pup.
This moment marked the first time I had caught sight of them in a local river, adding yet another cherished memory to my collection.
In other news this week, significant stories have emerged across Southern California.
Federal immigration agents have continued their raids throughout the region, leading to concerns regarding the treatment of detainees in California’s largest center, where conditions have been described as inhumane, with moldy food and dirty towels reported. These events have intensified scrutiny, especially following a video showing immigration agents confronting a Latino U.S. citizen who asserted his American identity. A raid at a Home Depot in Hollywood has raised alarms within immigrant communities, leading many to go underground in fear.
Vice President JD Vance, during his visit to Los Angeles, took the opportunity to criticize California’s leadership. Mayor Karen Bass, who was not invited to his meeting, dismissed his portrayal of recent developments in the city.
In sports news, the Lakers’ franchise is entering a new chapter as they are set to sell a majority ownership to the owner of the Dodgers. This transition comes after a storied association with the Buss family, with discussions on how the new ownership might breathe fresh life into the team.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers have found themselves embroiled in the fallout from the immigration raids. Federal agents were reportedly denied access to the Dodger Stadium parking lot amid tension regarding their presence at the venue, with community leaders urging the team to take a firm stance against ICE raids affecting their fans. As dialogues continue, it appears that while the Dodgers remain largely silent on the matter, many community figures have stepped up in support of local immigrant populations.
From the diamond to the field, the Dodgers have also had an eventful week with standout performances, including Shohei Ohtani’s highly anticipated pitching debut for the team, which coincided with a heated series against the Padres that ended with ejections and bench-clearing incidents.
Furthermore, California is tackling pressing issues as power was shut off for thousands statewide in preparation for heightened wildfire risks. Experts urge that new authority is needed in L.A. to oversee rebuilding efforts following firestorms, as crews have worked to control flames from a structure fire downtown that created a large plume of smoke.
In health news, a new COVID subvariant has been detected in California, allegedly featuring symptoms likened to a ‘razor blade throat’ that have emerged overseas.
Additionally, seven individuals faced indictment related to what is being termed the largest jewelry heist in U.S. history, alongside charges against 19 people connected to a conspiracy involving the Mexican Mafia and the murder of a Los Angeles rap artist.
As recent college graduates enter the job market, insights regarding earnings reveal the majors that command the lowest and highest salaries.
For those looking for weekend plans, consider these options:
Travel enthusiasts can explore 11 unique things to do in Palm Springs despite extreme temperatures. Foodies can feast their eyes on the 101 best restaurants in California, while theme park fans can discover what’s new this summer in Southern California, from lively night shows to themed treats like ‘Jaws’ doughnuts. Immigrant-founded eateries in L.A. are also highlighted, presenting an opportunity to support local communities while enjoying diverse cuisines.
If you prefer to stay in, delve into captivating reads such as ‘Hit Girls,’ exploring how music icons like Britney, Taylor, and Beyoncé defined the 2000s cultural landscape. For music lovers, Haim’s new album can provide vibrant soundtracks to your weekend, while ambitious cooks can try their hand at crafting rye shortcakes paired with strawberry-mandarinquat compote.
You can also engage in leisurely activities like tackling our daily crossword puzzle, sudoku, word search, or arcade games.
As the weekend approaches, the Essential California team wishes you a wonderful break filled with adventure and rejuvenation.
image source from：latimes
