cottonwood Campground
The campground operates first-come, first-served with no reservations. Current operational status could not be confirmed from official USFS sources. No potable water is available; campers must bring their own.
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
Cottonwood Campground offers a primitive camping experience in the western portion of Angeles National Forest, located off Pine Canyon Road near the town of Lake Hughes. At 2,600 feet elevation, the campground sits lower than many Angeles National Forest sites, making it accessible during shoulder seasons when higher-elevation campgrounds may be snow-covered. The 22 sites are arranged in a rustic setting and accommodate tents and smaller RVs. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water on site, so campers must bring their own supply. The campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations available. This location is particularly popular among off-highway vehicle riders, as it provides convenient access to numerous OHV trails in the surrounding national forest. The relatively remote setting and lack of amenities attract self-sufficient campers looking for a quiet base camp for backcountry exploration.
Directions
From Interstate 5 in Castaic, turn northeast on Lake Hughes Road and drive approximately 27 miles to the town of Lake Hughes. Turn left (northwest) on County Road N2 (Pine Canyon Road) and continue about 5.5 miles to the campground entrance on the left.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $6 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 22ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 22ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (626) 574-1613 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Community Posts
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