Los Angeles Area National Forests
The greater Los Angeles region is bordered by several National Forests that protect rugged mountain ecosystems rising abruptly from coastal basins. These include the Angeles, San Bernardino, Los Padres, and Cleveland National Forests — collectively forming one of the most topographically dramatic public land assemblages in the U.S. These forests include chaparral, oak woodlands, mixed conifer forests, alpine krummholz, and rare sky-island ecosystems. Geological features include steep fault-block mountains, granitic peaks, fire-shaped landscapes, and deeply dissected canyons. Recreation is highly diverse: backpacking in the San Gabriels, OHV riding, rock climbing, high-elevation hiking, and winter snow sports. Dispersed camping is available but more restricted due to fire risk, water scarcity, and high visitor pressure.