Monte Cristo Campground

We stumbled upon this campsite during a spontaneous trip after discovering that the road to Crystal Lake was closed due to a fire. Heading into the Los Angeles Forest, we found this site at the perfect moment. Only two spots were available, and we were lucky to snag one with plenty of trees and shade—unlike the other spot that lacked cover. We stayed at group site 6A/6B, which had ample parking for up to four vehicles and flat ground for several tents. The site also featured a convenient water spigot and a nearby outhouse. A small creek runs through the campsite, but the water level was low during our visit. Parking costs $12, with an additional $5 fee for extra cars, and the ranger makes rounds in the morning to check for payments. The site is close to the road, so you'll hear cars and motorcycles during the day, which some may find disruptive. To drown out the noise, many campers played music at their sites. At night, traffic noise lessens but is still noticeable. Overall, it was a great experience for a spontaneous trip, and we’ll definitely be returning!

My bf and I stayed here for 3 days. It has water and bathrooms (vaulted toilets) but don't expect to have cell service...(we have TMobile) There's a creek that runs through the campsite which offers some reprieve from the heat, also it's very clean water. We saw some snakes, it's also bear and cougar county...so...we went in late May of 2023, only a few other ppl were there. I believe the site has 19 spots. It's about 25 min from town, which is nice if you need supplies. I really liked this campground, although, there aren't any trails within the site. It's one of those where u camp, and then drive somewhere nearby to explore for the day.

On the pro side: it is probably the closest campground you can get to from the city of Los Angeles (maybe 25-minute drive). I was there in October when the creek was completely dry (which was a con) but it runs right through the middle of the camp and I’m sure in Spring it has a lovely sound. It has the standard vault (no water) toilets and trash bins. There is a decent amount of shade. On the con side: most of the campsites are among the smallest I’ve seen. Some of the sites would not have enough room for more than a small tent. If the campground were entirely full, depending on the site you get, your neighbors might be 20-feet away. Given there are 19 campsites, even one obnoxious or loud group could ruin it for the entire camp. It’s that small. Also too, the entire campground is about 20 feet immediately beneath the main road and vehicle noise is very prominent. I would recommend trying to get a site that is on the east side of the camp, and more towards the south end. It can be a nice quick getaway, but it’s not tranquil, quiet, or secluded.

Can be crowded or full sometimes especially during the weekend. Most likely because it's the closest campground if you're coming from the Los Angeles area. Currently piped running water isn't working. Creek runs right down the middle in the spring so you have access to "water" of some sort. Bathrooms are usually okay. I've never had a problem with neighbors in nearby spurs. Your results may vary.

Very peaceful. I am handicapper and the only handicap space was right up against the highway and very exposed to the entire campground. I prefer spaces 17& 19. There's a beautiful road for hiking but closed to vehicles. Water spigots and large trash receptacle.