Go Get a Lytle

Hike to Stone House Campground in the San Gabriels

Stone House Camp is just a hop, skip, and a jump outside of Scotland (not the one you’re thinking)! This small California campground is hidden in the vast mountainsides of the San Gabriels (near Scotland, CA) along the middle fork of Lytle Creek.

Go on a little adventure with big valley views, creekside relaxation, and shaded campsites—all within a 1.8-mile out-and-back  hike.

undefined

Start at the Middle Fork trailhead and immediately you’re rewarded with spin-around views of the mountains and the valley. The views stay with you most of the hike to Stone House Camp. Gradually ascend more than 400 feet in just over half a mile before coming to a fork marked by a sign.

Head left to follow the arrow that points to Stone House Camp. The trail dips down to the valley floor and the middle fork of Lytle Creek, flowing strong from all the snow melt from Timber Mountain and Bighorn Peak above.

Follow the creek until you see an opportunity to cross into the canopy of canyon live oaks and Jeffrey pines on the left side. When you spot the stones laid in circles and marking paths, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the campground. Keep going until you come across a small waterfall, which serves as a good turning back point.

From the I-15 north of Fontana take the Sierra Ave. exit and head north toward the mountains. Sierra Ave. will turn into Lytle Creek Rd. After 6.5 miles turn left onto Middle Fork Rd., which ends at Middle Fork Trailhead.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman with her arms outstretched to the rolling hills scenery while on a rock outcrop at Barnabe Peak in Samuel P Taylor Sate Park in Marin

    Barnabe Bonanza

    Sure, there are higher mountains in Marin (Mount Tam) and easier ascents (Mount Burdell), but is there a more expansive North Bay view? Barnabe Peak in Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers a glorious panorama including Mount Tam, Mount Diablo, and Mount St. Helena.

    View
  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View
  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View
  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View
  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View