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Bear Canyon Trail Camp (Hike-in Campground)

General Camping Info: Find helpful guidance and tips for an enjoyable trip to the forest!

Know Fire & Other Restrictions Before You Go!: These conditions can affect your entire trip. For example, Extreme and Critical fire use restrictions mean no campfires and no portable cooking systems/stoves. Bring cold food and no S'mores.

Be Bear Aware!: Bear safety is critical, for the safety of your group and/or you, as well as our bears. Help keep bears wild by following these tips. 

Overview of Site:

Campground is located 5 miles from Switzer's Picnic Area. Requires a 5-mile hike (one-way) in to the campground. Equestrian and mountain bike use not recommended.

Amenities: 3 hike-in campsites each with a designated picnic table. No toilets. No trash receptacles. Pack In-Pack Out. There is no piped water available. Seasonal stream water (treat before using). However, water flow may be low or non-existent due to reduced rainfall/drought. (Please bring enough water for cooking, cleaning, drinking, and extinguishing campfires.)

Current Conditions
Closed due to Eaton Fire

General Information

Year-round

The Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for vehicles parked in the forest at standard amenity recreation fee sites.

Find out if you need to buy a pass

Information & Pass Sales

Seasonal Stream

Getting There

Directions

From Interstate 210 in La Cañada Flintridge, exit at Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) and drive northeast for approximately 10 miles to the Switzers Picnic Area. Take a right into the Switzers Picnic Area and follow the narrow paved road about 1/2 mile down to the lower parking lot. The trail to Bear Canyon Campground begins at the east end of the parking lot across a wooden footbridge.

Additional Information

Operated By

Forest Service

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated July 1st, 2025