Camp Williams sits in the Angeles National Forest along the Eastfork of San Gabriel River near Azusa, and it’s one of those places where you can actually wake up to the sound of water running past your tent. Most of the tent sites are right on the riverbank, which means your dog gets easy access to the water and you get that constant, soothing river noise in the background.

The camping setup here works well for dogs. You’ve got room to move around between sites, and the riverside location gives your dog plenty of natural exploration territory. Fishing is popular at the campground, and if you’re into gold panning, there’s that to do too. The nearby off-road vehicle area appeals to some visitors, though it’s worth knowing about if you’re looking for a quieter experience.

The cafe and general store on-site mean you’re not constantly driving out for supplies, which is convenient when you’re settling in for a few days. You can grab what you need without leaving the campground. There’s also bungee jumping nearby if someone in your group wants something more adrenaline-fueled than a typical camping trip.

Access is straightforward — you’re only about 15 miles from the 210 freeway, so it’s not a remote backcountry situation. You can get here fairly easily from the Los Angeles area without it feeling like you’re still in the city once you arrive. The Eastfork area has a real mountain feel despite being reasonably accessible.

The river itself is the main draw here. Your dog will appreciate having that water close by, and you’ll probably spend more time just hanging out by it than you expected. Pack water shoes or sandals for wading, and bring a towel for your dog since the riverbank mud can be pretty substantial after it’s been wet.