Sheep Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the Maricopa area of California, offering a serene and forested environment just a short drive from the bustling city of Los Angeles. This charming campground provides a perfect base for hikers exploring nearby trails, with easy access to popular hiking routes and scenic views.
Customers highlight the campground's peaceful atmosphere and its popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. Many praise its accessibility and affordability, making it a favorite for hikers and families alike. The campsite's remote location offers a true taste of nature while being close enough to urban amenities.
Nice spot with a fire pit and running water from a pipe, though the water is not always running. It's actually decently foresty for being so close to Los Angeles. It's around 5 or 6 miles from the trailhead with some up and down.
Great day trip or overnight location. Hiked from the trailhead located on Cerro Noroeste road. A pretty steep climb gradient but only 2.5 miles (5.0 miles round trip), and easily done in a couple of hours (one way) with rest. Option to hike from opposite direction starting at Mount Pinos, but add about 1 mile each way due to walking from parking to summit. Water available from natural spring (see image) comes as fast trickle (Sept 30,2017). Has several fire pits, but be early on weekends (before noon) as it quickly gets taken. Boy Scouts frequently visits. No lavatories observed.. free camping (one of the few left..)
Views on that camp are amazing!!! Really one of the most quiet places in the forest, just make sure to bring your own water the spring was low to almost no water last time we went there.
3 mile hike from Cereo Nostrei mountain. Several inclines and a few declines. While there is a seasonal water hole hidden under a wooden cover with pipe that feeds a small rock water hole for li al wildlife, the water is clear but may require filtering with a life straw. There are 5-6 campsites with fire pits and a valley view of Lockwood Valley. I would not count on the spring for water as it may produce less water depending on the time of year. It was middle of July 2022 we visited. While there was clear water in the collection tank it did not appear to be running.
Gorgeous camp under the pines with sites spread out for privacy. At the end of July in a dry year there was still water trickling from the spring. Some sites have excellent views of Lockwood Valley and mountain ranges to the southwest. In the springtime the irises and lilies surrounding the campground must be outstanding!