As summer draws residents outdoors to enjoy hiking, picnics, and camping across the San Gabriel Valley, staying bug-free becomes essential. Whether you’re exploring the trails at Santa Fe Dam or setting up a backyard tent, these bug-proof summer tips can help you enjoy the sunshine without itchy bites or unwelcome pests.
Ward Off Mosquitos Naturally
Mosquitos are most active during dawn and dusk, making those the riskiest times for bites during early morning hikes or evening barbeques. Natural repellents can offer protection without harsh chemicals. Oils like citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and lavender work well when applied to exposed skin or diffused in outdoor settings. For a do-it-yourself spray, mix witch hazel, water, and a few drops of essential oil in a small spray bottle and apply every two hours.
Standing water—such as birdbaths, clogged gutters, or buckets—attracts mosquitos. El Monte and Baldwin Park residents can reduce breeding areas by checking yards regularly and turning over any containers after rain.
Smart Clothing Choices for Hikes and Camps
Wearing the right clothing helps prevent mosquito and tick bites while hiking or camping. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants create a barrier between skin and insects. Light-colored fabrics make it easier to spot ticks before they latch on, especially important when walking in brushy areas like Whittier Narrows or Eaton Canyon.
Insect-repellent clothing pre-treated with permethrin is also available and remains effective through multiple washes. For extra protection, tuck pant legs into socks and wear a hat when hiking in heavily wooded areas.
Tick Prevention Starts on the Trail
Ticks thrive in tall grasses and wooded areas. When walking through dense foliage, stay centered on trails and avoid brushing against vegetation. After any outdoor activity, perform full-body tick checks, including under arms, around ears, behind knees, and in hair.
If a tick is found, remove it promptly using fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward steadily. Wash the bite area with soap and water and monitor for symptoms like rashes or fever.
Ant-Proof Your Campsite or Picnic Area
Ants are quick to find crumbs and leftovers at campsites and picnic tables. Keep food sealed in airtight containers and clean up promptly after meals. Wipe down surfaces with vinegar or citrus-based cleaners, which naturally repel ants.
If picnicking at a local park in South El Monte or Rosemead, use food tents or mesh covers to protect dishes and drinks. Place a line of powdered cinnamon or chalk around food serving areas—ants won’t cross it.
At night, store food in coolers away from sleeping areas, and never leave garbage or leftovers in tents. Use sealable trash bags and dispose of them at designated bins or bring them home to prevent attracting insects and animals.
Keep Your Tent Pest-Free
When setting up camp, choose a dry, elevated site away from standing water and thick underbrush. Always zip tents fully when entering or exiting, and keep gear and shoes inside the tent to avoid attracting bugs.
Laying a tarp beneath the tent provides added moisture protection and deters crawling insects. Consider placing natural repellents like cedar chips or peppermint oil–soaked cotton balls near entry points.
Enjoy Outdoor Time Without the Itch
From weekend camping in the foothills to evening dinners on the patio, these bug-proof summer tips can help San Gabriel Valley residents make the most of the season without pests. Preparation is simple, affordable, and key to enjoying outdoor adventures safely and comfortably.
For more tips on enjoying the outdoors in LA County while staying safe and bite-free, visit LA County Vector Control.