Bandido Group Campground
4.1914 reviews33708 Crown Valley Road
Bandido Group Campground
$24.00 - $120.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$120.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group site rates vary by size and season, ranging between $24 to $120 per night. Fees do not include reservation service fees or additional charges.
About this campground
Escape to Bandido Group Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern outdoor adventure. This rustic mountain sanctuary welcomes equestrian enthusiasts and their four-legged companions to explore the legendary Pacific Crest Trail and beyond. With five spacious group sites nestled among towering pines, Bandido creates the perfect basecamp for memorable gatherings under star-filled skies. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout expedition, or riding club adventure, this high-country haven offers the authentic wilderness experience large groups crave.
The campground caters exclusively to group camping, and its facilities are designed to accommodate equestrian campers.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Bandido into a sun-drenched paradise where warm, crystal-clear days invite endless outdoor exploration. The dry season brings reliably gorgeous weather with brilliant blue skies stretching from dawn to dusk. While afternoon temperatures can climb during peak summer, the mountain elevation ensures refreshingly cool mornings and comfortable evenings around the campfire. This predictable sunshine makes summer the prime season for group adventures, though seasoned campers know to pack layers for those crisp mountain nights.
ElevationPerched at 5,840 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains, Bandido offers a natural air-conditioned escape from the valleys below. This sweet spot elevation delivers the best of mountain camping—noticeably cooler temperatures that provide relief from summer heat, crystalline air that seems to sharpen every view, and those famously clear Southern California skies that make stargazing extraordinary. The altitude creates perfect conditions for both daytime adventures and peaceful nights of deep, restorative sleep.
Natural Features and SceneryBandido's landscape tells the story of Southern California's mountain majesty through its stunning natural tapestry. Majestic Jeffrey pines tower overhead, their vanilla-scented bark and graceful branches creating a natural cathedral. Twisted scrub oaks and vibrant manzanita bushes paint the understory with textures and colors that change with the seasons. At 5,840 feet in the heart of Angeles National Forest, this living gallery showcases the rugged beauty that has drawn adventurers to these mountains for generations.
Geological RegionAngeles National Forest serves as Bandido's magnificent backyard, sprawling across the dramatic San Gabriel Mountains that define Southern California's northern horizon. This geological wonderland showcases nature's extremes—from sun-baked canyons at 1,200 feet to snow-dusted peaks soaring to 10,000 feet. The diverse terrain creates distinct ecosystems at every elevation, with Bandido positioned perfectly in the transition zone where Jeffrey pines, scrub oaks, and manzanita thrive. This mountain fortress protects over 700,000 acres of wilderness, offering endless opportunities for exploration just beyond your campsite.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features paved roads and trailer parking spaces, which may enhance accessibility for vehicles and equestrian campers. However, there is no specific information on ADA-compliant facilities.
Sites SizeThe campground is divided into five group campsites, each with varying capacities: Site #1 accommodates up to 12 campers, Site #2 up to 60 campers, Sites #3 and #5 up to 30 campers each, and Site #4 up to 18 campers. Individual campsites are spacious enough for group activities but vary in tent capacity.
Sites PrivacyThe sites provide reasonable privacy given their group camping layout. "The spots are far enough so no other group was affecting the other in noise or proximity," one user noted.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Campsite #1 has very little space for tents," writes one visitor. Site 2 offers isolation and is spacious, while sites 3 and 5 are suitable for mid-sized groups.
Best CampsitesSite 2 is highly recommended for its central location and capacity for 60 campers. However, it experienced yellow jacket infestations during October as noted in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guest limits vary by site, ranging from 12 to 60 campers.
Groups
Group campsites at Bandido can accommodate different numbers of campers: Site #1 supports up to 12 campers, Site #2 allows up to 60, Sites #3 and #5 hold up to 30 each, and Site #4 accommodates up to 18. Larger sites are suitable for bigger groups, while smaller ones offer a more intimate setting.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has five group sites arranged within a single area, each varying in size and layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 26, 2025, to November 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov online platform or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is mentioned; all sites are reservable in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or changed via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. A $10 fee applies to changes or cancellations, and late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) forfeit the first night's use fee in addition to the $10 fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bandido Group Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, with a strong emphasis on equestrian camping and hiking. It provides access to several trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding, including a connector trail to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The PCT spans 176 miles through Angeles National Forest, allowing users to experience breathtaking views and diverse terrain.
Hiking
The campground provides access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), which is famous for its scenic views and challenging terrain. "Several trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding can be accessed from the campground," notes the authoritative source. Hikers can enjoy both short and extended treks along the PCT.Biking
Bandido offers mountain biking opportunities on trails accessible from the campground. The trails range from easy to challenging, catering to various skill levels.Winter Activities
No winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are noted in the authoritative content or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated rings. Visitors must bring sufficient water to extinguish fires properly.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are a known hazard, as mentioned in multiple user reviews and official notices. Mosquitoes, yellow jackets, and flies are prevalent during summer and fall months, as highlighted in reviews.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Acton is the nearest town for emergency services, including police and hospitals. Specific facilities were not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 26, 2025, to November 15, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available at the campground, although recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features are located nearby.
Common complaintsSome reviews highlight issues such as dirty restrooms, loud noise from adjacent group sites, and challenges with the locked gate entry system.
Campground Map
33708 Crown Valley Road
Driving directionsFrom La Canada at the junction of the I-210 and State Route 2 (Angeles Crest Highway), exit I-210 and turn north towards the mountains on State Route 2. Proceed 28.5 miles to Three Points (two miles past Newcomb's Ranch Cafe) and turn left onto Forest Service Road 3N17 (Santa Clara Divide Road). Continue west 2 miles to the entrance; gate is on the left. Use the combination you obtained when confirming your reservation to open the gate.
Road access to the campground is paved, with clear signage along Angeles Crest Highway. However, note that Forest Service Road 3N17 leading into the campground requires a gate code, which must be requested prior to entry. This gate may present challenges for visitors arriving after-hours or without prior communication, as reported by user reviews.Nearby places
La Canada (28.5 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Acton (approximately 15 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Acton serves as the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Specific supplier details were not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.2
14 reviews
Bandido Group Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Bandido Group Campground vary widely in sentiment, with overall ratings averaging around 3.78 for camping-specific experiences. Positive feedback highlights the campground’s rustic atmosphere, spacious group sites, and excellent hiking opportunities. Negative reviews often focus on logistical issues, such as the locked gate requiring an access code and the lack of potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
1. "Amazing, clear night sky, quiet."2. "Bandido is excellent for large groups with many cars. There is plenty of parking throughout the campground as well as the front."3. "Nice, clean, spacious and...
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Common Concerns
1. The locked gate requiring a combination code can be problematic: "We arrived after dark and we’re never told you needed a code for a locked gate. We were stuck and it was late."2. Lack of potable...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.2. Obtain the gate code before arrival to avoid access issues.3. Mosquito traps or repellents are essential, as insects can be...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that late summer and early fall can bring challenges like yellow jackets and flies. "This was at the end of October, and there were just swarms of [yellow jackets] everywhere."
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Amazing, clear night sky."2. "Bathrooms were dirty all weekend."3. "Nice, clean, spacious and quiet campsites."4. "We arrived after dark and we’re never told you needed a code for a locked...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1: "Small maybe 3 tents. Too many mosquitos & flies."Site #2: "We rented site 2... we were the only ones there!"Site #3: "There is no running water so you'll have to bring your own but there...
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Accessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing ADA-compliant accessibility features.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not mention pet policies or experiences at Bandido Group Campground.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025