Lightning Point Group Campground
01 review12371 N.LITTLE TUJUNGA CANYON SAN FERNANDO, CA 91342
Lightning Point Group Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / 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
Reservation fees range from $3 to $9 depending on booking method. Additional fees may apply for changes and cancellations.
About this campground
Escape to Lightning Point Group Campground, where towering pines and ancient scrub oaks create a natural sanctuary perfect for memorable group adventures. At 6,100 feet elevation, this mountain retreat welcomes up to 240 campers across six spacious group sites, each thoughtfully designed for gatherings of friends, families, and equestrian enthusiasts. Whether you're planning a reunion under the stars or a horseback riding expedition through the wilderness, Lightning Point offers the ideal basecamp for your outdoor celebrations.
This campground caters primarily to group and equestrian campers. There are six group campsites, two of which are specifically designed for horse camping. No designated tent or RV camping areas are separately mentioned. "The peaceful campground has six group campsites that can accommodate a total of 240 campers. Two of the sites are designed for horse camping."
Historical SignificanceWhile Lightning Point's recorded history may be recent, these ancient forests have long served as a meeting place where nature's timeless rhythms continue unchanged. The surrounding wilderness holds countless untold stories within its old-growth pines and weathered granite.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Lightning Point are pure mountain magic, with temperatures hovering in the delightful low 80s while pine-scented breezes keep you comfortable during outdoor activities. As evening falls, the mountain air turns refreshingly crisp, perfect for gathering around the campfire with hot cocoa and stories. Winter transforms the landscape into a quieter realm, though snow and freezing conditions may temporarily close access to ensure visitor safety during the coldest months.
ElevationPerched at 6,100 feet above sea level, Lightning Point offers a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations. Here, the mountain air carries the vanilla scent of Jeffrey pines, temperatures drop 15-20 degrees from the valley floor, and the night sky reveals a spectacular blanket of stars unobscured by city lights. This sweet spot elevation provides the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where majestic Jeffrey pines stretch skyward, their cinnamon-barked trunks creating natural cathedral columns throughout the campground. Twisted scrub oaks and vibrant manzanita shrubs paint the understory with ever-changing seasonal colors. Adventure beckons just beyond your campsite, with the legendary Pacific Crest Trail winding through nearby ridges, offering endless exploration opportunities through this diverse ecosystem that transitions dramatically from sun-baked chaparral to cool pine groves.
Geological RegionLightning Point sits within the spectacular Angeles National Forest, a 700,000-acre wonderland where elevations soar from 1,200 to 10,000 feet, creating an incredible diversity of life zones. At 6,100 feet, the campground occupies a magical transition zone where the lower elevation's hardy chaparral and oak woodlands give way to aromatic Jeffrey pine forests. This dramatic vertical journey through multiple ecosystems makes every hike an exploration through California's remarkable geological and botanical diversity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for this campground. Campers with disabilities may face challenges due to the lack of facilities like toilets and water.
Sites SizeEach group campsite is large enough to accommodate group gatherings and features communal tables and open spaces. Sites 5 and 6 include additional space for horse corrals.
Sites PrivacyNo detailed information is provided about the level of privacy at individual campsites. However, the group camping setup suggests a less private experience.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEquestrian campers should prioritize Sites 5 and 6 for their horse corrals. All visitors must bring portable toilets and drinking water.
Best CampsitesSites 5 and 6 are notable for their equestrian facilities, featuring six horse corrals each.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group camping allows up to 240 individuals across six sites.
Groups
The six group campsites can accommodate up to 240 campers in total. Sites 5 and 6 are equipped with six horse corrals each and are designed for equestrian campers but can also be reserved by non-equestrian groups.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSix group sites accommodating up to 240 campers, with Sites 5 and 6 designated for equestrian camping.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is currently closed indefinitely.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is indicated for this group campground.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for group sites begin 14 days before check-in and forfeit the first night’s recreation use fee. On-site personnel may not assist with late cancellations.
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
Activities you can enjoy
The main recreational activities at Lightning Point Group Campground include hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding. The campground is located near the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, offering extensive hiking opportunities with access to diverse ecozones. Mountain biking is allowed on all trails in the Angeles National Forest except the Pacific Crest Trail. "Hiking, bird watching and horseback riding are the biggest attractions for campers."
Hiking
Hiking is a favorite activity among campers. The nearby Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail offers extensive hiking opportunities and connects six out of the seven ecozones in North America. The trail is highly regarded and spans from Canada to Mexico.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on all trails in the Angeles National Forest except for the Pacific Crest Trail, providing a range of options for biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a natural extension of bird watching and the forested location, though specific details about common species are not provided.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campground is closed until further notice, potentially including winter months.Water Sports
No water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire pits and BBQ grills/rings.
- Quiet hours are Generators, live bands, and loud music are prohibited, suggesting enforced quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area. Campers must store food in approved containers and ensure hay is certified weed-free. Winter conditions can make the area unsafe.
Active alerts"Lightning Point Group Campground is closed until further notice."
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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 are not explicitly stated in the authoritative content, but the Angeles Forest Ranger Station is nearby.
Good to know
Peak season datesSeasonal dates are unspecified.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all trash, as there are no trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features are directly mentioned or nearby.
Common complaintsReviews mentioned closures due to cold and wildfire recovery. One user noted the closure is essential for safety and recovery.
HostHost information is not provided.
Campground Map
12371 N.LITTLE TUJUNGA CANYON SAN FERNANDO, CA 91342
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 210 in La Canada, exit onto the Angeles Crest Highway (HWY 2) and drive northeast for approximately 10 miles to the intersection of the Angeles Crest Highway and the Angeles Forest Highway (County Road N3). Turn left (north) on to the Angeles Forest Highway and drive approximately 12 miles to the Santa Clara Divide Road at Mill Creek Summit. Turn left (west) onto the Santa Clara Divide and continue for about 11 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible from paved roads; however, it is located remotely within the Angeles National Forest, requiring navigation through winding and mountain roads. The road to the area is never closed, according to one user review, though the gate to the campground may be shut. The campground is currently closed.Nearby places
Palmdale (25 miles southeast), San Fernando Valley (35 miles north)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not specified. Campers are advised to bring their own water, portable toilets, and garbage bags for a 'pack in-pack out' camping experience.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Lightning Point Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Lightning Point Group Campground are sparse and indicate mixed experiences. The campground's closure due to safety concerns and wildfires is noted. Some reviews detail directions and the current state of recovery for the area.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Equestrian facilities like the horse corrals at Sites 5 and 6 are appreciated. The proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail is a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The lack of basic facilities like toilets and water is a consistent complaint. The closure of the campground and limitations due to wildfire recovery have also been noted.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own portable toilets, potable water, and garbage bags. Wildlife precautions, including proper food storage, are essential.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is currently closed, but during open seasons, its high elevation likely provides cooler summer temperatures. Winter closures may be due to hazardous snow or icy conditions.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground [is] only getting closed for the Season. When it's very cold in there, which is making the place to be not safe for peoples and horses."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 5 and 6 are highlighted for their horse corrals, making them ideal for equestrian campers.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available, but the limited facilities suggest challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025