Gould Mesa Trail Camp Introduce
Escape to the tranquility of the backcountry at Gould Mesa Trail Camp, a hidden gem nestled within the vast expanse of Angeles National Forest, near La Cañada Flintridge, California. This hike-in campground is a sanctuary for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's grandeur.
A Backpacker's Haven
Gould Mesa Trail Camp is specifically designed for backpackers looking to immerse themselves in the wilderness. The campground is only accessible by foot, adding an element of adventure to your camping experience. The trails leading to the camp meander through stunning landscapes, offering glimpses of breathtaking vistas and opportunities to connect with nature.
Rustic Camping Experience
This campground offers a rustic camping experience, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Here, you can truly disconnect and appreciate the simple pleasures of nature. The camp offers basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, a vault toilet, and a shared bear box for food storage, ensuring a comfortable stay in the wilderness.
Explore the Trails
Gould Mesa Trail Camp serves as an excellent base for exploring the network of trails in Angeles National Forest. Embark on day hikes to nearby peaks, wander through lush forests, or challenge yourself with a multi-day backpacking trip. The possibilities for adventure are endless!
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hike-in Access: Remember that Gould Mesa Trail Camp is a hike-in campground. Be prepared for a trek to reach the site, and pack accordingly. The hike is approximately 2 miles roundtrip with a steep hill.
- Permits and Passes: Ensure you have the necessary permits and passes for camping and parking in Angeles National Forest. A California Campfire Permit is required for building a fire.
- Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine environment of the campground.
- Water: There is no water available at the campground. Be sure to bring an adequate supply for your trip.
- Bear Safety: The campground is located in bear country. Utilize the provided bear box for food storage and follow bear safety guidelines.
Getting There
Gould Mesa Trail Camp is accessible via the Gabrielino Trail. The trailhead is located near the intersection of Ventura Street and Windsor Avenue in La Cañada Flintridge. Detailed directions and trail information can be found through the U.S. Forest Service website and hiking resources.
Promote Gould Mesa Trail Camp
Share your backpacking adventures at Gould Mesa Trail Camp! Use #GouldMesaTrailCamp and #AngelesNationalForest on social media to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and inspire others to explore this hidden gem.
Location
Customer Reviews
Great backpacking site for beginners. The trail in is about 2.5 miles. The 1st mile is very urban and not super pretty. The last 1.5 miles follows the stream and is beautiful and shady. There are 3 stream crossings before you reach the campsite. All along the trail are bridges, picnic tables, stone walls and benches for resting. The campsite itself is pretty with a fire ring at every site. There are several places to hitch a horse. The campground has about 6 sites in total but not every site has a picnic table. Some sites have a log to sit on by the fire if you don’t want to pack a chair. There was no toilet paper in the vault toilets and the bear safe trash cans were overflowing. There was one “long term camper” but he didn’t get us any trouble. The main trail runs just beside the campground with a steady stream of trail runners, mountain bikers and hikers. The stream runs just on the other side of the trail and is wonderfully cool and refreshing. Pack water shoes or extra clothes if you have kiddos that like to explore.
If you visit, PLEASE throw trash away in designated spots, or pack it out! This campground is next to a very busy trail that is frequented by locals. The bathrooms were clean and there is currently running water in the stream below the camp. Cute little campground that’s not too far away, which is perfect for a quick weekend getaway from the city!
Oh my!! I feel so much sadness for the land and animals!! Such a wonderful place!! I hope some of the biggest trees survive!!
It is a pack in camp. There is a clean bathroom. No showers. Picnic tables at each site. A babbling creek and only the sounds of nature. As a primitive camp I give it 5 stars.
The camp ground wasn't anything special at all. If I had one word to describe it, it's would be dirty as there is just bits of trash all over the campground, cordage tied to a bunch of trees, old broken tent poles, you name it, it's there. I had read beforehand that homeless people like to stay here and that is absolutely true. I do not have a problem with homeless people, but what I do have a problem with is that that took up 3 out of the 4 major campgrounds, leaving recreational and backpack users with noot as many options. There is a good water source for filtering and plenty of firewood. Although, it does get quite windy sometimes and the campground sits right in the middle of an open canyon. I would come back if I had to, but this wouldn't be my first choice.
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