Monte Cristo Campground
Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Check-in and check-out is at 11 a.m. No reservations or holding of campsites allowed.
Eaton Fire Area Closure
In effort to protect the public and to facilitate natural recovery of the resources affected by the Eaton Fire, this closure extends the Eaton Fire Area Closure through December 31, 2027.
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.
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.
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
Monte Cristo Campground is located towards the backside of the San Gabriel Mountains in a high-desert climate making the epic views seem endless. It is one of Angeles National Forest's lesser-used spots to pitch a tent. With 19 large, spacious and accessible sites at 3,600 feet elevation, the campground is perfect for grabbing a friend and spending the weekend telling stories around the campfire. The campground recently underwent a complete renovation with all campsites totally revamped. Sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, and the campground offers vault toilets and piped water from a hand pump. RVs up to 30 feet are allowed, though there are no hookups. Sites #6 and #7 are double sites that can accommodate larger groups. The location provides easy access to hiking Granite Mountain or taking a dip in the cool waters of postcard-worthy Switzer Falls. The campground is open year-round and operates on a first-come, first-served basis with an 11 a.m. check-in and check-out time.
Directions
From Interstate 210 in Pasadena, exit the Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2) and drive north for 9 miles. Turn left onto the Angeles Forest Highway (County Road N3) and drive about 9 miles to the campground. May also be reached from the Sunland area by taking Big Tujunga Canyon Road and turning left at the Angeles Forest Highway, or taking the Angeles Forest Highway from the Palmdale area.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 30ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (661) 269-2808 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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