Chilao Campgrounds
Both Little Pines and Manzanita loops are open. Little Pines operates year-round but may close temporarily due to winter weather or road conditions. Manzanita serves as overflow during winter months. Recreation.gov Scan & Pay digital payment is available at arrival, or pay cash/check at the fee tube.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Fire Danger Level Elevated to "High"
Effective June 12, 2026, fire danger levels have increased to “HIGH” at the Angeles National Forest, which includes the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. Visit our Newsroom Webpage to read the full press release.
About
Chilao Campgrounds occupies a forested setting at 5,300 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains, roughly 26 miles northeast of La Cañada Flintridge via the Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2). The campground consists of two loops: Little Pines with 43 sites operates year-round (weather permitting), while Manzanita with 41 sites serves as overflow capacity during winter months. Both loops accommodate tents and RVs up to 40 feet, though no hookups are available. Every site includes a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Potable water is available via hand pumps and spigots, with vault toilets distributed throughout both loops. Bear-proof dumpsters are provided for trash disposal. Quiet hours run from 10 pm to 6 am, and generators, amplifiers, and loud music are prohibited. Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. The campground provides access to excellent hiking via the Silver Moccasin National Recreation Trail, which connects to sections of the Pacific Crest Trail. The elevation and distance from Los Angeles make it a good location for stargazing. Vetter Lookout and Big Tujunga Canyon offer panoramic views nearby.
Directions
From Interstate 210 and CA-2, proceed 25.1 miles north on CA-2 to Forest Service Road 3N21 (Chilao Road). Turn left onto 3N21 and proceed 0.2 miles west. Campground entrance will be on the left.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (661) 269-2808 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!