Mt. Pacifico Campground
4.2115 reviewsMt. Pacifico 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
Adventure Pass is required for parking ($5/day or $30/year). Interagency Passes are also accepted.
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About this campground
Perched high in the San Gabriel Mountains at 7,100 feet, Mt. Pacifico Campground offers adventurous souls a true wilderness escape. This intimate, hike-in sanctuary features just 10 tent-only sites, each one a private retreat among the pines. Your journey begins with a 4-mile trek along a winding dirt road, leaving civilization behind as you climb toward some of Southern California's most breathtaking vistas. Here, where the Pacific Crest Trail weaves through the landscape, you'll find the perfect blend of solitude and adventure in the protected lands of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument.
Mt. Pacifico Campground caters exclusively to tent camping enthusiasts with its 10 designated tent-only sites. The campground is not accessible to RVs due to its remote location and rugged access roads.
Historical SignificanceMt. Pacifico sits along one of America's most storied paths—the legendary Pacific Crest Trail. Throughout the hiking season, you might share evening conversations with through-hikers on their 2,650-mile journey from Mexico to Canada, their tales of adventure adding to the campground's rich tapestry of stories. This crossing point has become a cherished waystation where weekend warriors meet long-distance trekkers, creating a unique community bound by their love of the mountains.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather at Mt. Pacifico tells its own dramatic story throughout the year. Summer nights bring crisp, star-filled skies accompanied by winds that whisper through the pines. As seasons change, so does the mountain's temperament—from sun-drenched days perfect for hiking to winter's wild beauty when snow blankets the peaks. The campground embraces nature's rhythms, closing its gates when winter storms make the access road impassable, ensuring this high-altitude haven remains pristine and protected.
ElevationAt 7,100 feet above sea level, Mt. Pacifico transports you into a different world where the air is thin and pure, and the temperature can drop dramatically after sunset. This lofty perch means you'll wake to crisp mornings that invigorate the senses and sleep under blankets of stars seemingly close enough to touch. The elevation brings its own rewards—cooler temperatures when the valleys below swelter, and that particular quality of light found only in high mountain environments.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient pines stand sentinel around your campsite, their branches framing views of weathered rock outcrops that tell stories millions of years in the making. As day turns to dusk, the western sky transforms into a canvas of colors that would make any artist envious. When darkness falls, Mt. Pacifico reveals its greatest treasure—a celestial theater where the Milky Way stretches from horizon to horizon, undiminished by city lights. This is nature's amphitheater, where every sunrise and sunset becomes a memorable performance.
Geological RegionNestled within the western reaches of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, Mt. Pacifico occupies a spectacular position in one of Southern California's most geologically fascinating regions. These ancient mountains, thrust skyward by tectonic forces, create a rugged backdrop that showcases millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry. The protected monument status ensures these geological wonders remain unspoiled for generations of campers to discover and explore.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is hike-in only during winter months and accessible by vehicles during other times. The road is noted to be rough and better suited for high-clearance vehicles.
Sites SizeThe campground features 10 tent-only sites, and reviews suggest some variability in size, but no specific dimensions are mentioned.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight the secluded nature of the campground, but privacy among sites is not detailed extensively.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring sufficient water, trash bags, and earplugs for windy nights. Choose sites with wind cover near rock outcrops.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites are not highlighted, but users often praise the secluded nature and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout10 tent-only sites scattered across the campground, described as quiet and secluded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally and closes when the first winter storm is projected.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; sites are first-come-first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up first-come-first-served; no reservation is required.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mt. Pacifico Campground offers scenic views and opportunities for stargazing, including visibility of the Milky Way. Hiking is a notable activity due to its proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail, and visitors frequently comment on the beauty of the sunsets and the clear night skies.
Hiking
The Pacific Crest Trail runs 1/2 mile north of the campground. Hikers can access the area via multiple routes, including a 9-mile round-trip hike starting at Alder Saddle as highlighted in user reviews.Winter Activities
The campground is hike-in only during winter months due to road closures caused by weather conditions.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Strict fire restrictions during extreme and critical conditions; campfires and portable stoves may be prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsTreacherous dirt road access, lack of shade at campsites, windy conditions, and bear activity.
Active alertsCurrent alerts include road closures due to washouts and a damaged outhouse roof.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.4 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
Mill Creek Station for water, parking area, and basic needs.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are present but often overfilled. Campers are advised to bring trash bags and pack out all waste. One reviewer encourages visitors to help clean up additional trash left by others.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features nearby; potable water is not available.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention lack of water, absence of trash service, and poorly maintained vault toilets.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 210 in Pasadena, exit onto the Angeles Crest Highway (Hwy.2) and drive north for 9 miles. Turn left onto the Angeles Forest Hwy. (County Rd. N3) and drive about 12 miles to the intersection with Santa Clara Divide Rd. at Mill Creek Summit (there is a sign). Turn right and drive about 6 miles to the signed gate. Turn left and take the dirt road for 4 miles to the campground. The gate is locked in the winter when the road is impassable.
The road includes dirt sections and is not suitable for RVs. The last 4 miles to the campground are challenging terrain, and the gate is locked in winter when impassable.Nearby places
Pasadena (approx. 32 miles, 45 min), Palmdale (approx. 45 miles, 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Mill Creek Station parking area for water. No adjacent stores or fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
4.2
15 reviews
Mt. Pacifico Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Mt. Pacifico Campground are generally positive, with highlights including stunning views, quiet surroundings, and excellent opportunities for stargazing. However, the lack of water, challenging road conditions, and poor maintenance of facilities are mentioned as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the campground for its beautiful views, seclusion, and dark skies perfect for stargazing. 'You literally see the Milky Way in the evening,' one review states. Another mentions the...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of potable water, overflowing trash bins, and poorly maintained vault toilets. The access road is often described as rough and challenging, with one reviewer advising...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water, toilet paper, and trash bags. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing the site. Earplugs are suggested for dealing with...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews note that the campground can be extremely windy at night, and bugs can be an issue during the day. The road to the campground is often closed in the winter, making it hike-in only during that...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great place to be able to camp right at the top of the mountain. But there are some caveats.'
2. 'Insane. Sunset and views are spectacular.'
3. 'You literally see the Milky Way in the...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned in the reviews, but one user notes that 'the variety of them' contributes to the area's beauty.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are provided.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025