Meadow Group Campground

About

Meadow Group Campground occupies a scenic setting at 5,300 feet elevation within the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, surrounded by Coulter pines, scrub oaks, and grasslands. Located off State Highway 2 between Chilao Campground and the Chilao Ranger Station, the facility provides two reservable group camping areas accessible via a gated entrance requiring a combination obtained before arrival. The campground caters specifically to group camping with Site 1 accommodating up to 24 people and Site 2 handling larger groups up to 80. Each area has its own fire rings, picnic tables, and animal-resistant dumpster, while vault toilets are shared between both sites. Water availability is extremely limited with only one spigot in Area 1, making it essential for groups to bring adequate water supplies. The Chilao Visitor Center lies 1.5 miles east, offering exhibits, campfire programs, and excellent birding opportunities including ten woodpecker species. The San Gabriel Wilderness begins just 1.5 miles away with hiking and equestrian trails, while the Angeles Crest Scenic Byway provides spectacular views of surrounding peaks, valleys, and the Mojave Desert.

Directions

From the Los Angeles basin, take I-210 (Foothill Freeway) to the State Highway 2 (Angeles Crest Highway) exit in La Canada. Turn north toward the mountains and continue on Highway 2 for 25.6 miles to lower Chilao Road (Forest Service Road 3N21). Turn left and proceed west 1.5 miles to the entrance gate on your left. Use the combination obtained when confirming your reservation to open the gate.