Pyramid Lake - Los Alamos Campground
4.13197 reviewsPyramid Lake Road, Hard Luck Road, CA
Pyramid Lake - Los Alamos Campground
$20.00 - $160.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$35.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$160.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard nonelectric sites cost $20 per night for up to 6 people and 2 vehicles. Premium sites with shade cost $35 per night (sites 47, 49, 50, 53, 55). Group sites cost $110 for up to 25 people or $160 for larger groups. Holiday weekends involve increased rates of $40 per night for premium sites. Incremental charges include $5 per additional person and $10 per extra vehicle.
About this campground
Escape the urban hustle and discover your perfect outdoor retreat at Los Alamos Campground, where adventure meets tranquility just 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Nestled near the sparkling waters of Pyramid Lake, this scenic destination beckons with endless possibilities for camping enthusiasts, anglers seeking their next big catch, and boaters ready to explore 21 miles of pristine shoreline. While the open-air sites embrace the natural landscape with sandy gravel aprons and selective shade, they offer unobstructed views of the surrounding wilderness that will take your breath away.
Los Alamos Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including single-family, group, tent, and RV camping. The campground is suited for those seeking a high-desert environment with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceJourney through California's remarkable water story at Los Alamos, where the life-giving waters of Pyramid Lake have traveled an epic path from the pristine Plumas National Forest, winding through the ancient Tehachapi Mountains via an engineering marvel of aqueduct systems. The nearby Vista Del Lago Visitor Center invites curious minds to explore interactive exhibits that reveal how this precious resource shapes both the landscape and the Golden State's destiny, making your camping experience not just recreational but educational.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the authentic high desert climate where warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for stargazing around the campfire. Spring arrives with characteristic desert winds in mid-April, bringing a wild, untamed energy to the landscape. As summer unfolds, the sun commands respect—savvy campers come prepared with shade structures to create their own cool oases. The dry air and occasional dust devils remind you that you're camping in true California wilderness, where nature sets the rhythm of your days.
ElevationPerched at 1,300 feet above sea level, Los Alamos Campground offers the perfect elevation sweet spot—high enough to escape the valley heat and enjoy crisp, star-filled nights, yet accessible enough for comfortable year-round camping. This gentle elevation creates a natural air conditioning effect, ensuring your evenings are pleasantly cool even after the warmest desert days.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Santa Clarita Valley hills, where Los Alamos Campground sprawls across a landscape painted in earth tones and desert hues. The open camping sites frame panoramic vistas, with scattered trees providing pockets of shade like natural umbrellas dotting the terrain. Your eyes will be drawn to the dramatic silhouette of Pyramid Rock standing sentinel over the landscape, while the surrounding desert terrain tells ancient geological stories written in stone and sand.
Geological RegionDiscover a geological wonderland where the rolling hills of Santa Clarita Valley meet the protective embrace of Angeles National Forest. At the heart of this 1,300-acre aquatic jewel lies Pyramid Lake, its 21-mile shoreline carved through millennia of natural forces. The landscape reveals its desert heritage through sparse but resilient vegetation and exposed rock formations, while the iconic Pyramid Rock rises from Piru Gorge like a natural monument. This unique terrain offers campers an authentic high desert experience, where every sunrise and sunset paints the rocky canvas in spectacular colors.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include flush toilets and water spigots, although detailed accessibility reviews are mixed. Some users found parking aprons and paths suitable for small RVs or vans.
Sites SizeThe campground offers spacious sites, accommodating single-family and group camping. Group sites can fit up to 40 guests and 10 vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with some being more secluded than others. Reviews often highlight areas in loops that provide better privacy.
Total Campsites93 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring shade structures for hot weather; loops 3 and 4 offer more shade. Avoid Loop 1 sites near highways to minimize noise.
Best CampsitesLoop 4 sites 64 and 74 praised for spacious and private settings. Loop 1 site 15 noted for proximity to dry creek and morning shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay: 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Standard sites accommodate up to 8 people
- additional charges for over-limit guests.
Groups
Each group site accommodates up to 40 guests and 10 vehicles. Sites include picnic tables and grills.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops with varying levels of shade and proximity to facilities. Loops 3 and 4 offer shaded sites; Loop 1 is closer to highways.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 1 to December 31. First-come, first-served period: June 20–24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov. Facility also operates on first-come, first-served basis during select periods.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served (FCFS) available during June 20–24. Limited availability during peak periods.
Cancellation PolicyChanges or cancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within one day for individual sites or 14 days for group sites) result in forfeiture of first night's fee.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Los Alamos Campground offers diverse recreational activities that cater to various interests. Pyramid Lake is popular for water sports, including boating and jet skiing. Fishing opportunities abound, with striped bass, rainbow trout, and other species available. Hiking trails are accessible nearby, although not directly from the campsite. Wildlife viewing is common, with sightings of birds, squirrels, and larger animals like bobcats and mountain lions. Beach activities and off-roading are available close to the campground.
Hiking
Hiking options are available in the surrounding areas but require driving. Trails include Buck Creek Trail, which spans approximately 7.5 miles. Several reviews noted the lack of direct hiking access from the campground itself.Fishing
Fishing is a big draw at Pyramid Lake, with species such as striped bass, rainbow trout, and bluegill. User reviews often mentioned enjoying their fishing experiences.Swimming
Swimming is available at Pyramid Lake but is contingent on algae conditions. During certain times, swimming may be prohibited due to toxic algae blooms.Biking
Biking is feasible along nearby roads and trails, but there are no dedicated biking paths within the campground.Boating
Boating is highly popular, with rentals available for kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing boats. Jet skiing is also an option, though reviews highlighted occasional issues with rude behavior from jet skiers.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides opportunities to view various wildlife, including bobcats, mountain lions, and Nelson bighorn sheep. Birds like hummingbirds are also common.Beach activities
Beach activities are primarily centered around Pyramid Lake. Some reviews noted noisy conditions due to music and crowded spaces.Winter Activities
Winter activities like stargazing and occasional snow experiences are noted in reviews. However, no formal winter sports are available.Water Sports
The lake supports water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions apply; specific bans on campfires and propane stoves during high-risk periods. Confirm in advance.
- Quiet hours are Enforced quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Amplified music prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent wind gusts, biting flies, red ants, and occasional rattlesnake sightings. Limited shade exacerbates hot summer conditions.
Active alertsPeriodic fire bans; visitors advised to confirm restrictions in advance.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 13.5 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 likely available in Valencia or nearby towns along Interstate 5.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are provided and maintained regularly. Some reviews mentioned overflowing bins, but these instances appeared sporadic. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresPyramid Lake (2 miles away) accessible by car; additional fee of $15 per vehicle. No direct walking access.
Common complaintsFrequent noise disturbances due to neighboring campsites. Fire and cooking restrictions often not clearly communicated online. Sandy terrain and lack of shade noted.
HostHosts praised for cleanliness and friendliness; typically sell firewood and ice. Limited supplies available on-site.
Campground Map
Pyramid Lake Road, Hard Luck Road, CA
Driving directionsFrom Valencia, California, drive 20 miles north on Interstate 5, then take the Smokey Bear exit west. Make a left on Pyramid Lake Road. Take a right at Hard Luck Road and continue 1.5 miles to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads with clear signage upon exiting Interstate 5. Some sections may involve sandy gravel parking aprons.Nearby places
Valencia (20 miles, ~30 minutes), Los Angeles (~90 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Gorman Plaza Market (6 miles north on Interstate 5) for essentials with slight mark-ups, multiple gas stations, and fast food chains such as McDonald's.
Camper Reviews
4.1
197 reviews
Pyramid Lake - Los Alamos Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present a mixed picture of Los Alamos Campground. Positive highlights include clean facilities, helpful staff, and convenient access to Pyramid Lake. On the downside, issues such as lack of shade, windy conditions, and noise from other campers are commonly mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 197 reviews
What Campers Love
Camp hosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. Clean restrooms and large campsites are appreciated. Many campers enjoyed the proximity to Pyramid Lake and the availability...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include overly windy conditions, lack of shade, noisy neighbors, and crowded beach areas at Pyramid Lake. Some reviews noted issues with campsite access and misleading information...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a canopy or tarp for shade, especially during hot weather. Check for fire restrictions and algae conditions at the lake before arrival. Plan for early marina access to avoid long lines.
Based on 197 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently highlight the high temperatures and lack of shade, while winter reviews commend the peaceful environment and stargazing opportunities. Spring and fall are noted for milder...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Bathrooms clean and camp sites orderly.' - Emma Hodcroft
- 'The stars at night were spectacular.' - Diana K
- 'Hosts were very friendly and helpful.' - Jacqueline B
- 'Bring bug spray! Mosquitos...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 6 in Loop 1 was criticized for its incline and poor tent setup. Site 32 and 33 received praise for cleanliness and proximity to restrooms. Group sites were noted for spaciousness and suitability...
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Accessibility Features
Mixed accessibility reviews. Some campers found paths suitable for vans and small RVs, while others noted difficulties due to uneven terrain.
Based on 197 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with some reviews highlighting that dogs were well accommodated. However, loose dogs were occasionally noted as a problem.
Based on 197 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025