Chilao Campgrounds

Chilao Campground sits at 5,300 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument Ranger District of Angeles National Forest, about 0.2 miles from Coulter Group Campground and Meadow Group Campground. The Forest Service manages the land, and the campground's location offers panoramic views of Vetter Lookout and Big Tujunga Canyon. The site has 84 campsites spread over two loops: Little Pines and Manzanita. Each loop holds 40 sites, and Manzanita is used for overflow in winter. Little Pines is open year-round, though its availability depends on winter and road conditions. Amenities include vault toilets, piped water and dumpsters. Campers should secure their food when a site is unattended, as wildlife is active in the area. For a visit in a vehicle, the Silver Moccasin Trail is close by, and the campground has access to it. RVs up to 40 feet are allowed, but there are no hookups. Summer and early fall are the warmest stretch, with typical highs around 70 to 85 degrees in July and September. The Mt Wilson weather station, about 7 miles away, records similar figures at a similar elevation. Winter months typically bring highs in the mid-50s and a few more wet days. Nearby options include the Silver Moccasin NRT hike, the Devils Canyon hike, the climbing at Between Romeo Void and Main, and the West Fork San Gabriel River for paddling.