Blue Ridge Campground
4.3625 reviewsBlue Ridge Campground
$5.00 - $30.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping requires an Adventure Pass ($5/day or $30/year) or America the Beautiful Pass for entry. No specific camping fees beyond these passes.
About this campground
Perched high in the Angeles National Forest, Blue Ridge Campground beckons adventurers seeking an intimate encounter with California's dramatic mountain landscape. This hidden gem features eight thoughtfully spaced sites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings where stories are shared under star-studded skies. As a gateway to the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, the campground serves as basecamp for epic hiking adventures. While the facilities embrace simplicity with vault toilets and no running water—encouraging a true back-to-basics experience—the real luxury here is the untamed beauty that surrounds you. Be prepared for nature's symphony as mountain winds dance through the pines, creating an ever-changing soundtrack to your stay.
The Blue Ridge Campground is a primitive site with eight first-come, first-serve campsites. It caters to tent campers, RVs up to 20 feet (only when the road is open), and backpackers during the hike-in season. No group camping or glamping options are available.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsBlue Ridge's high-altitude climate creates a unique meteorological theater where dry mountain air meets persistent winds that sculpt both landscape and experience. Summer transforms the campground into a cool refuge from valley heat, drawing visitors to its naturally air-conditioned ridgetop setting—though even warm days are accompanied by the signature mountain breezes. When winter arrives, snow blankets the access roads, creating a natural gate that preserves the area's pristine solitude for those willing to venture in on foot, transforming the campground into a peaceful wilderness retreat.
ElevationAt a breathtaking 8,300 feet above sea level, Blue Ridge Campground exists in that rare realm where earth meets sky. This lofty perch delivers more than just spectacular panoramas—it offers a completely different world where temperatures drop refreshingly cool even on summer days, and the thin mountain air adds a crisp clarity to every view. The elevation creates its own microclimate, where winds flow freely across the exposed ridgeline, carrying the scent of pine and the promise of adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your ridgetop sanctuary in the Angeles National Forest, the world unfolds in every direction like a living map. To the east, the vast Mojave Desert stretches endlessly, its subtle colors shifting with the light. The mighty profiles of Mt. San Antonio and Mt. Baden Powell dominate the skyline, their peaks catching first light at dawn and holding sunset's glow. As darkness falls, a different magic emerges—distant city lights twinkle like earthbound constellations far below. The campground's high-altitude ecosystem showcases nature's resilience, where hardy pines and mountain flora thrive in the challenging conditions, creating pockets of life and color against the dramatic mountain backdrop.
Geological RegionBlue Ridge Campground crowns one of the Angeles National Forest's most spectacular ridgelines, where the San Gabriel Mountains reveal their ancient geological story. This elevated spine of weathered granite and metamorphic rock serves as a natural balcony overlooking the dramatic transition from mountain peaks to desert floor. The nearby Pacific Crest Trail follows these ancient ridgelines, tracing paths carved by millions of years of tectonic activity. From this vantage point, visitors witness the grand collision of ecosystems—where the Mojave Desert meets mountain forest, creating a geological crossroads that showcases Southern California's remarkable diversity. The commanding views of Mt. San Antonio and Mt. Baden-Powell remind visitors they're standing among giants, surrounded by peaks that have watched over this land for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation on accessibility is not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as moderately sized but suitable for small RVs (up to 20 feet) and tents.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are considered secluded and quiet by several reviewers, with the exception of occasional disruptions from other campers.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #2 recommended for its views. Bring ropes for extra tent support due to wind.
Best Campsites#2 site identified as having the best views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicity said
Groups
Group camping is not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutEight sites are available, all equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen all year round. Vehicle access limited Nov-May
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation needed or possible
Walk-in AvailabilityYes, first come first serve policy.
Cancellation PolicyOnly first come first serve.No cancellation policies
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hiking is the standout activity, with direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail and short night hikes. Users also appreciate picnicking and wildlife spotting. The campground's high elevation offers stunning views and starry skies.
Hiking
Direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail and Blue Ridge Trail. Hiking opportunities range from short, scenic walks to more demanding treks. Several reviewers highlight the views and connection to notable trails like Mount Baldy. Chris Medina said, 'Beautiful mountain top campground. Trails connecting to Mt. Baldy. PCT runs right through it.'Wildlife viewing
Users note the serene environment and occasional wildlife sightings. Anahita Omair remarked, 'Awesome experience!!! Be careful about bears and food.' Bear safety is emphasized due to frequent bear activity in the area.Winter Activities
The campground is hike-in only from November to May, making it potentially suitable for winter hiking or snow trekking, but no specific winter sports are mentioned.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions vary with conditions. During extreme or critical conditions, campfires and portable stoves are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh winds are a significant challenge, making it difficult for large tents and campfires. Bear activity necessitates food storage vigilance. Road conditions require caution and suitable vehicles.
Active alertsRoad closed beyond Guffy due to damage. Seasonal fire restrictions apply.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Emergency services include Wrightwood Police Station (~5 miles) and nearby hospital facilities (unspecified distances).
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingCampers need to pack out their trash. No mention of on-site trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresNo immediate water features. Trail angels sometimes stock water near the old tank.
Common complaintsHigh winds, lack of potable water, and road conditions. Vault toilets are described as unpleasant.
HostNo hosts explicitly mentioned.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Wrightwood, take the Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2), approx. 5 miles west to Inspiration Point trailhead. At Inspiration Point trailhead take Blue Ridge Road for 3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Blue Ridge Road, which can be steep, rough, and unpaved. During winter (mid-November to late April/early May), the road is closed to vehicle traffic, making the site hike-in only. Reviews consistently emphasize the need for high-clearance or 4x4 vehicles for navigating the roads, especially after road damage and seasonal closures.Nearby places
Wrightwood (5 miles
~15 minutes from trailhead), Angeles Crest Highway (~3 miles)
Nearby supplies
Trail angels occasionally stock water by the old water tank nearby. For other supplies, visitors must procure from Wrightwood (~5 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.4
25 reviews
Blue Ridge Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its stunning views, seclusion, and proximity to hiking trails, especially the Pacific Crest Trail. Common complaints include high winds, lack of potable water, and the condition of vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently commend the breathtaking views, peaceful atmosphere, and access to trails. Glenn Robins mentioned, 'The view is very good during the day and awesome at night. Great basecamp for...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Campers often mention the strong, consistent winds, occasional noisy campers, and the challenging road access requiring high-clearance vehicles. Vault toilets and the lack of potable water are...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water and a jacket, as winds and temperatures can make the area cold even in summer. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for easier access. Arrive early as campsites are...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summers are busy, with weekend crowding reported. Winds are a consistent issue regardless of the season, with some campers mentioning challenges pitching tents. From November to May, access is...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Prepare for legit serious wind. It’s at the top of a ridge and it gusts in this spot all the time.' (Matthew Henderson)
2. 'Cute LITTLE secluded campsite. The view of the city is amazing at...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 mentioned as having the best views. No detailed reviews of other specific sites.
Based on 25 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews explicitly mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025