Bear Canyon Campground
Closed — Closed through at least December 31, 2025, due to damage from the January 2025 Eaton Fire.
Wind Advisory issued December 29 at 7:22PM PST until December 30 at 3:00PM PST by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
* WHAT...North to northeast winds 20 to 35 mph with gusts of 40 to 50 mph. * WHERE...Ventura County Coast, Malibu Coast, Ventura County Valleys, western Los Angeles County Valleys, Southern Ventura County Mountains, Eastern Santa Monica Mountains, and Eastern San Gabriel Mountains. * WHEN...Until 3 PM PST Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
Fire Danger Level Downgraded to "High"
The fire danger level for the Angeles National Forest has been lowered from “Very High” to “High”. Despite the change, there are no new fire restrictions.What does this mean to you?
Be Prepared for Winter Weather
Recent storms have brought winter weather to the Angeles National Forest! From the foothills to elevations reaching over 10,000 feet, visitors can encounter a variety of conditions in the mountains.
Forest Order No. 05-01-25-13, Camping Equipment Prohibition
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. This Order is effective from August 15, 2025, through August 1, 2027.
Bridge Fire Area Closure Terminated
The Bridge Fire Area Closure (Forest Order No. 05-01-25-12) that was in effect from June 5, 2025 through May 22, 2026 has been terminated starting June 20, 2025.
Mt. Baldy Communications Site Project
Renegade Towers, LLC, is proposing to build, operate, and maintain a communication uses facility and tower. The proposed facility would be constructed within the Mt.
Forest Order 05-01-25-09 Eaton Fire Area Closure
On Friday, April 4, several popular trails, forest roads, and a campground reopened after the Eaton Fire, as per a new forest order issued by the Angeles National Forest. To see the full forest order, visit www.fs.usda.gov/angeles.
Office & Visitor Center Updates - Need Info or Passes?
The information below provides updates to existing information on our webpage about Angeles National Forest offices and visitor centers. Check this alert regularly.
Angeles National Forest full closure to partial closure
The Angeles National Forest, which includes the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, partially reopened on Thursday, January 30.
Williamson Rock Area and Trail Closure
Hikers and equestrians along the Pacific Crest Trail may be affected by a temporary closure of the Williamson Rock area of the Angeles National Forest. This closure (Forest Order No.
Planning to Camp? (Stay Limits/Dispersed Camping Restrictions) til Dec. 15, 2026
The following is prohibited within the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument from Dec. 16, 2022, through Dec. 15, 2026:
About
Bear Canyon Campground offers a true backcountry experience in the San Gabriel Mountains, situated along Arroyo Seco within Angeles National Forest. Located 5 miles from the trailhead at Switzer's Picnic Area, this remote hike-in campground requires commitment and preparation from visitors seeking solitude in the wilderness. The campground contains three designated primitive campsites, each equipped with a picnic table. No developed facilities exist at this location—there are no toilets, no trash receptacles, and no piped water. A seasonal stream flows nearby, but water availability is intermittent and heavily dependent on rainfall; all stream water must be treated or filtered before use. During dry periods, the stream may run low or cease flowing entirely, making it essential to pack in adequate water for all needs including cooking, cleaning, drinking, and fire suppression. The 5-mile approach follows the historic Gabrielino National Recreation Trail through Arroyo Seco canyon. This area was popular during the early 20th century "Great Hiking Era," and remnants of that history remain visible along the trail. Access begins at the lower parking lot of Switzer's Picnic Area off Angeles Crest Highway, approximately 10 miles from La Cañada Flintridge. The trail crosses a wooden footbridge at the east end of the parking area. Due to trail conditions, equestrian and mountain bike use is not recommended. An Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking.
Directions
From Interstate 210 in La Cañada Flintridge, exit at Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) and drive northeast for approximately 10 miles to Switzer's Picnic Area. Turn right into Switzer's Picnic Area and follow the narrow paved road about 0.5 miles down to the lower parking lot. The trail to Bear Canyon Campground begins at the east end of the parking lot across a wooden footbridge. Hike 5 miles one-way along the Gabrielino Trail to reach the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $5 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (626) 574-1613 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
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