Open year-round, first-come first-served only. No advance reservations accepted. All paved loops (A, B, C, D, E, I) and lake access road currently open. Subject to winter snow closures.
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
Crystal Lake Campground is a popular mountain escape in the San Gabriel Mountains, located at the top of Highway 39 within Angeles National Forest and the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. At 5,539 feet elevation, the campground offers cooler temperatures than the LA basin below. The 120 campsites are distributed across six paved loops (A, B, C, D, E, and I), each equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Potable water is available from ground spigots throughout each loop, and vault toilets serve the area. The campground operates first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. A visitor center staffed by the Angeles Volunteer Association is open weekends from 9am to 4pm. The privately operated Crystal Lake Cafe & General Store sells hot meals, sandwiches, and camping necessities including firewood, open Wednesday through Monday from 8am to 5pm. Crystal Lake itself is approximately a one-mile hike from the campground. Swimming is prohibited, but fishing is allowed with a valid California license. Motorized boats are not permitted. Trails lead to Mt. Islip and Windy Gap for those seeking more strenuous hikes. The maximum vehicle length is 22 feet, making this campground best suited for tents and smaller camping trailers rather than large RVs.
Directions
From Azusa, take Highway 39 north for 25 miles through San Gabriel Canyon. Follow signs to Crystal Lake. Turn right on Crystal Lake Road and stop at the fee station. The campground is at mile marker 38.13.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | Yes |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 35ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 35ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (626) 335-1251 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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