Southern California boasts an incredible network of hiking trails, and understandably, the vast majority of adventurers enjoy them as day hikes. However, for many, the leap to overnight backpacking feels daunting, often due to uncertainty about where to go and how to start gaining experience. The good news is, diving into the world of overnight backpacking doesn’t require trekking to remote wilderness far from the city. There are fantastic options for overnight backpacking [Los Angeles] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles) or easily accessible from the metropolitan area. These trips offer a perfect taste of multi-day adventure, allowing you to test your gear and skills without committing to a long journey.
Here is a curated list of ten outstanding trips for overnight backpacking Los Angeles and the surrounding Southern California region. Each can often be adjusted to match your desired difficulty level, providing a unique outdoor escape that’s surprisingly close to urban life. Get ready to swap city lights for starlit skies and traffic noise for the sounds of nature on these memorable adventures.
Crystal Cove State Park: Coastal Overnight Backpacking Los Angeles Getaway
Many people are unaware that Crystal Cove State Park, nestled in Orange County south of Los Angeles, offers backcountry campgrounds with stunning ocean views. While the trails buzz with activity during the day, these sites provide a peaceful overnight retreat. You can even hike in after work, set up camp, cook dinner, and catch a spectacular sunset over the Pacific. As dusk settles, the daytime crowds vanish, leaving you with incredible coastal serenity right outside your tent.
This trip is a gem for those starting out or looking for a quick escape. It’s perfect for what’s often called a “gear shakedown,” allowing you to test new equipment or practice your backpacking routine in a relatively accessible and low-risk environment before tackling more ambitious trails further afield. The convenience and stunning views make it a top choice for overnight backpacking Los Angeles beginners.
Hikers walking on a trail overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Crystal Cove State ParkCoastal views on a perfect Southern California overnight backpacking trip.
Santa Cruz Trail: A Strenuous Challenge Near Los Angeles
Located in the Santa Barbara backcountry, this out-and-back trail offers a more demanding overnight backpacking experience accessible from the LA area. It’s particularly beautiful in the spring before the summer heat sets in. The hike involves a challenging 10-mile trek with a significant 2,500 feet of elevation gain to reach the campsite.
Camping by a stream under the shade of ancient oak trees provides a well-earned rest. This trail closely mimics the daily distance and elevation gain often encountered on longer thru-hikes like the John Muir Trail, serving as excellent preparation. Timing your trip for spring can reward you with breathtaking displays of wildflowers lining the path. This is a solid option for experienced hikers seeking challenging overnight backpacking Los Angeles adjacent trails.
Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains: An Upside-Down Adventure
Heading towards northeast San Diego County, accessible as a weekend trip from Los Angeles, the Barker Valley trail in the Palomar Mountains presents a unique “upside-down” backpacking experience. This means you descend about 1,000 feet to reach the river valley and campsite, only to face a 1,000-foot climb back out the next day.
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At 6.5 miles round trip, it offers a gentler introduction to the physical demands of backpacking compared to steeper ascents. The destination rewards you with lush meadows, a scenic river, and a beautiful waterfall. Plus, it’s a dog-friendly trail, making it a great choice for bringing your four-legged companion on your overnight backpacking Los Angeles adjacent escape.
Santa Anita Canyon: Historic Overnight Backpacking Near Los Angeles
Deep in the San Gabriel Mountains, very close to the heart of Los Angeles, Santa Anita Canyon offers a journey into LA’s rich hiking history. You can find overnight camping options at sites like Hogee’s on Winter Creek or Spruce Grove on the Gabrieleño Trail. These campgrounds have welcomed hikers for over a century, preserving a sense of the past.
For those feeling energetic the next morning, you have the option to push on and summit Mount Wilson, a prominent peak and part of the Six-Pack of Peaks challenge. Exploring these lush canyons, filled with the sounds of flowing water and the scent of damp earth, feels like stepping into another world, far removed from the freeways and urban hustle of Los Angeles.
Hiker emerging from a lush, shaded canyon on a trail near Los AngelesFinding a moment of peace while backpacking Santa Anita Canyon near Los Angeles.
The historical significance and natural beauty combine to make this a uniquely engaging spot for overnight backpacking Los Angeles area residents can easily access.
Cucamonga Peak: Peak Views for Your First Overnight Backpacking Los Angeles Trip
Summiting Cucamonga Peak via the Icehouse Canyon Trail is a classic Southern California hike. Turning it into an overnight trip, as my partner Joan and I did for our Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, elevates the experience dramatically. Be prepared to pack in all your water, as sources are scarce on the upper reaches of the trail.
The effort is immensely rewarding. Backpacking here allows you to witness both the sunset and the sunrise from high elevation. The nighttime views are spectacular, with countless stars overhead and the twinkling city lights of the Los Angeles Basin spread out below. We were even treated to a distant view of the Disneyland fireworks from the summit! Like some other trails on this list, Cucamonga Peak is also dog-friendly. It’s an unforgettable peak experience for overnight backpacking Los Angeles hikers.
Mount Baldy: Exposed High-Altitude Camping Near Los Angeles
Camping on the very top of Mount Baldy (officially Mount San Antonio), the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains, is an experience unlike any other for overnight backpacking Los Angeles enthusiasts. This trip is not for the faint of heart or the unprepared. You must pack in all your water, and the summit is known for being cold, windy, and completely exposed to the elements.
Despite the challenging conditions, the sunrises and sunsets from this vantage point are absolutely breathtaking. Standing atop Southern California’s prominent peak under a full moon or watching the first light kiss the mountains is a truly special reward. Mount Baldy also welcomes dogs, allowing your canine companion to share in this high-altitude adventure.
Silhouetted hiker on Mount Baldy summit with city lights in the distance during a full moon hikeWitnessing urban sprawl and natural beauty on an overnight backpacking Los Angeles peak adventure.
San Bernardino Peak: Views That Speak for Themselves
The San Bernardino Trail climbs high into the San Bernardino Mountains, leading eventually to the summit of San Bernardino Peak and beyond. However, for a fantastic overnight backpacking Los Angeles getaway, you don’t need to go all the way to the peak. A great option is to stop at Limber Pine Flat and set up camp for the night.
This campsite provides access to the main trail while offering a less strenuous objective than the full summit push. The primary reason to undertake this trip, especially camping at Limber Pine Flat, is for the expansive, sweeping views it offers. From here, you can gaze out over vast distances of Southern California landscape. The vista truly says it all, making it a compelling destination for scenery-focused overnight backpacking Los Angeles adjacent adventures.
Panoramic view from a high point on the San Bernardino Peak TrailAn epic panorama awaits on an overnight backpacking trip in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Catalina Island: Island Overnight Backpacking Near Los Angeles
An absolutely unique option for overnight backpacking Los Angeles residents must experience is Catalina Island. You don’t have to commit to hiking the entire challenging Trans-Catalina Trail to enjoy the island’s beauty overnight. Simply take a ferry from San Pedro (a short drive from downtown LA) to Two Harbors, a charming village on the island.
From Two Harbors, you can enjoy shorter day hikes to reach designated overnight campgrounds. Options include hiking to Little Harbor on one side of the island or Parsons Landing on the other. Each offers a distinct coastal camping vibe, from the sheltered cove of Little Harbor to the more remote beach experience at Parsons Landing. Backpacking on Catalina is a quintessential Southern California adventure and highly recommended for anyone living in or visiting the Los Angeles area seeking an island escape.
Tents set up near the beach at Parsons Landing on Catalina IslandIsland life meets overnight backpacking near Los Angeles at Parsons Landing.
San Gorgonio: SoCal’s Tallest Peak Overnight
Most people tackle San Gorgonio, the highest mountain in Southern California, as a demanding day hike. However, by doing so, they miss out on the incredible experience of witnessing sunset and sunrise from its slopes. Turning this into an overnight backpacking Los Angeles trip accessible challenge allows you to savor the journey and the views.
Excellent overnight camping options include High Creek Camp, where I’ve enjoyed stunning views like the one pictured, or Halfway Camp, conveniently located roughly midway up the Vivian Creek trail route. Spending the night at altitude breaks up the strenuous climb and provides more time to appreciate the high mountain environment. While the summit is a worthy goal, you don’t have to reach it to have a rewarding overnight trip. But once you’re up there, the pull to stand on the highest point is often irresistible. This is the ultimate peak bagging experience for overnight backpacking Los Angeles region.
Tent set up at High Creek campsite with a vibrant sunset over the mountains in the distanceA colorful sunset view from a campsite high on San Gorgonio during an overnight trip.
San Jacinto: A Personal Favorite for Overnight Backpacking
Mount San Jacinto holds a special place in my heart as a personal favorite for overnight backpacking. I’ve been exploring this mountain since I was a teenager and its beauty never ceases to amaze me. It offers versatile access options: you can hike up from the town of Idyllwild or take the convenient Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for a higher starting point. It’s even a mountain where you can introduce the youngest adventurers, as I took my daughter on her first overnight trip here before she could even walk.
What makes San Jacinto so appealing for overnight backpacking Los Angeles adjacent adventurers? The diverse trail options allow you to aim for the summit, explore alpine meadows, or simply enjoy the scenery around Wellman’s Divide. The rugged peaks and high-country feel strongly remind me of the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering a taste of that wilderness closer to home. Whether you hike all the way up or ride the tram, an overnight trip on San Jacinto is a truly rewarding experience.
View looking out over Round Valley on Mount San JacintoCapturing the essence of the high country in Round Valley during a San Jacinto overnight backpacking trip.
Essential Tips for Overnight Backpacking Near Los Angeles
Undertaking any of these overnight backpacking Los Angeles adventures requires some preparation beyond just packing your gear. A crucial step for nearly all these destinations is obtaining the necessary permits. These are typically wilderness permits issued by the local ranger station governing the area (like the Forest Service for mountain areas or State Parks for Crystal Cove). Research and secure your permits well in advance, as they can be limited, especially for popular trails or peak season weekends.
Water availability is another critical factor in Southern California’s often arid environment. While some trails have seasonal water sources, many require you to carry all the water you’ll need for the entire trip, which adds significant weight. Always check current conditions before you go. Lastly, pay attention to the season; summer heat can be extreme at lower elevations, while higher peaks can hold snow well into late spring. Spring and fall are often ideal for many of these trips.
Wrapping Up Your Overnight Backpacking Los Angeles Adventure
These ten locations represent just a fraction of the incredible opportunities for overnight backpacking Los Angeles and its surrounding areas offer. Each trip provides a chance to escape the city, connect with nature, challenge yourself physically, and gain valuable backpacking experience. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles, respect the environment, and be prepared.
Whether you’re testing new gear at Crystal Cove, pushing your limits on Santa Cruz Trail, exploring history in Santa Anita Canyon, or chasing summit views on Baldy or San Gorgonio, overnight backpacking near Los Angeles provides accessible adventures that nourish the soul. These trips are a great way to step into the world of multi-day hiking and discover the wild beauty hidden just a short drive from the urban sprawl.
Frequently Asked Questions About Overnight Backpacking Los Angeles
Do I need permits for overnight backpacking near Los Angeles?
Yes, almost all overnight backpacking trips on public lands near Los Angeles require wilderness permits. These are typically obtained in advance from the governing agency (e.g., US Forest Service, State Parks). Research the specific requirements for your chosen destination.
What is the best time of year for overnight backpacking Los Angeles trails?
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are often ideal for many locations, offering milder temperatures. Higher elevation areas like San Gorgonio and San Jacinto are also popular in summer (June-August), though afternoon thunderstorms are possible. Lower elevation trails can be very hot in summer.
Are these trips suitable for beginners?
Some trips, like Crystal Cove, Santa Anita Canyon (to the lower camps), or Barker Valley, are more beginner-friendly due to shorter distance or less elevation gain. Others, like Santa Cruz Trail, Cucamonga Peak, or San Gorgonio, are more strenuous and better suited for those with some prior hiking fitness or day-hiking experience. Always choose a trip that matches your current fitness and comfort level.