Bear Canyon Campground - Altadena, CA
Bear Canyon Campground – Pet-Friendly Hiking in Altadena, California
Bear Canyon Campground, nestled in the Angeles National Forest near Altadena, offers a rustic, pet-friendly experience for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs. With shaded, scenic hiking trails accessible from Switzer trailhead, your adventure includes crossing gentle streams, hearing birdsong, and even marveling at seasonal wildflower blooms. Dog owners can enjoy exploring these tranquil paths with their pups, making it a fantastic spot for dog-friendly hiking in Altadena, California.
The campground itself is primitive and peaceful, suited to those seeking a true backcountry experience. Amenities include tent sites, a fire pit, picnic benches, and some natural shade from towering trees. While the site is not equipped with dog-specific features like fenced areas or water fountains for dogs, it does offer a beautiful, shaded retreat where leashed pets are welcome to share the joys of nature. Bear Canyon Campground is also good for families and kids, providing both wilderness and relaxation—but don’t forget to bring waterproof gear for the creek crossings and extra water for you and your canine companion!
Bear Canyon Campground FAQ
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available at the campground.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there is plenty of natural shade from trees at the campground and along many parts of the hiking trail.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, the campground entrance is not wheelchair accessible.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? There are picnic benches provided at the campground.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Bear Canyon Campground is accessible via hiking trails, including a route from Switzer trailhead.
- Is the campground open year-round? The campground is generally accessible year-round, but conditions may vary due to weather and trail obstacles.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Yes, a pre-paid adventure recreation pass is required for parking at the trailhead.
- Are there activities for kids? Yes, the area is good for kids and offers kid-friendly hikes.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, there is a picnic bench and a fire pit for campers to use.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, creek crossings and trails can be muddy and wet, especially after rain.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Poison oak is present along trails; exercise caution.
Reviews
One of my favorite spots in the Angeles National Forest. Nice, easy and mostly shaded hike. Very quiet on the week days. Lots of trees for Hammock camping.
A Backcountry campground, not much more than a stove, decaying Picnic Table, and a flat area to pitch your tent. A nice, peaceful campground off the beaten path. In 2014 the trail to the campground had many felled trees blocking the path, not sure if they are still there. Beware of Poison oak!
Hiked in Saturday morning from Miller camp ground, we spent the night and hiked back Sunday morning
Good backpacking trip for beginners
We did the trail from Switzer trailhead to bear canyon campground. It was ~9mi trail (out and back). The whole trail passed through the water stream. Very scenic view. Lot of bird humming is heard in the whole stretch. We found few wildflower blooms on our way. Since there is lot of switching sides of the stream throughout the trail, your shoes would get literally wet. So, recommend wearing waterproof shoes and waterproof socks to save your feet 🥶. Carry ample drinking water. Campground is primitive equipped with fire pit, picnic bench, shade, cast iron heating plank for heating ur food. You need to have pre-paid adventure recreation pass to part your vehicle at the trailhead.
An amazing hike to the campground, but the campground is pretty lame. There is 5 major waterfalls and 26 creek crossings to get to this campground.