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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Appletree Campground

Wrightwood, California · Los Angeles County · Campground

Overview Nestled in a scenic canyon just off the Big Pines Highway, Apple Tree provides a scenic and relaxing destination for camping, hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Within driving distance of Jackson Lake for easy access to fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Just northwest of the Los Angeles metro area. Visito…

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34.38660, -117.71343
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About Appletree Campground

Overview Nestled in a scenic canyon just off the Big Pines Highway, Apple Tree provides a scenic and relaxing destination for camping, hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Within driving distance of Jackson Lake for easy access to fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Just northwest of the Los Angeles metro area. Visitors enjoy exploring the Angeles Crest Scenic Byway, which offers incredible views of oak thickets, high desert landscapes, chaparral and pine forests. Recreation Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, as visitors may see bobcats, mountain lions, bears and Nelson bighorn sheep. Powerboating is not permitted on Jackson Lake, so the setting is peaceful and quiet for swimming, canoeing and fishing. The lake is stocked with trout and bluegill. Facilities Tent campsites can accommodate eight campers. Remote parking for one vehicle is provided in a shared parking lot a few hundred feet away from the sites. Grills, picnic tables, pit toilets, and drinking water are provided. Firewood can be purchased from the host at nearby Mountain Oak Campground. Natural Features Apple Tree Campground sits at an elevation of 6,100 feet in Angeles National Forest. Campsites are shaded with scattered oak trees and Jeffrey pines. Daytime temperatures in the summer are usually in the low 80s and evenings are cool. The Angeles National Forest spans nearly 695,000 acres over most of the San Gabriel Mountain Range in southern California. Vegetation ranges from chaparral and oak at lower elevations to pine forests at higher altitudes. Elevations range from 1,200 to 10,000 feet. The endangered California condor inhabits the forest. The Least Bells vireo and the Southwestern Willow flycatcher are two migratory birds that visitors enjoy spotting in the area. Other local inhabitants include the Arroyo toad, mountain yellow-legged frog, the mountain lion and the two-striped garter snake. Nearby Attractions The Angeles Crest Highway, part of California State Route 2, is a scenic byway tha

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Appletree Campground

Heading to Appletree Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Appletree Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Appletree Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10203797) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I contact Appletree Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: 760.316.7828 or email: campgrounds@mthigh.com.