Families looking to connect under the stars have a local opportunity this week, as the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation launches its 2025 Overnight Family Camping series on Friday, August 1 at Whittier Narrows Recreation Area in South El Monte. The event begins at 6 p.m., with a low-cost admission of $15 per adult, while children 13 and under attend free.
The program is part of a summer series hosted in county parks throughout August and offers families an easy way to enjoy nature without the hassle of planning or gear rental. Each event includes guided night hikes, stargazing sessions, campfire gatherings, and classic camping activities like roasting s’mores.
Perfect Timing for Perseid Viewing
The timing of the August 1 event coincides with the early activity of the Perseid meteor shower, one of the year’s most anticipated astronomical events. While the shower’s peak won’t arrive until mid-August, early August nights—especially before the full moon—are expected to offer better viewing conditions due to darker skies.
According to astronomical forecasts, the moon will be nearly full during the meteor shower’s peak around August 12, which can hinder visibility. That makes early August dates like August 1 more favorable for families hoping to spot meteors streaking across the night sky.
The Whittier Narrows location provides wide open sky views, hiking trails, and a scenic campground atmosphere ideal for first-time campers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Activities, Registration, and What to Bring
The family camping Whittier Narrows event is designed for safety and convenience. Families must register online in advance through the LA County Parks website. Participants are encouraged to bring a sleeping bag, comfortable clothes, a flashlight, and their sense of adventure.
The evening will include a guided night hike led by park rangers, a stargazing session with astronomy educators, and a campfire gathering complete with stories and s’mores. The overnight stay offers a quiet camping experience in a supervised setting.
No tents or meals will be provided by the organizers, so participants should come prepared with their own camping essentials and snacks. The program offers an accessible way for families to enjoy camping in a safe and welcoming environment.
Event Details and Community Connection
Whittier Narrows Recreation Area is located at 750 S. Santa Anita Ave, South El Monte, CA 91733. The park spans more than 1,400 acres and includes lakes, trails, open fields, and picnic areas, making it a regional hub for outdoor recreation in the San Gabriel Valley.
This event is part of a countywide initiative to expand equitable access to nature and outdoor experiences, particularly for urban families who may not have the means or time to plan their own overnight adventures.
Future dates in the Overnight Family Camping series include August 8 at Frank G. Bonelli Park in San Dimas and August 22 at Santa Fe Dam in Irwindale.
Registration and more information are available at parks.lacounty.gov/summer.
With warm nights, active skies, and welcoming programming, the August 1 kickoff at Whittier Narrows promises a memorable and meaningful evening for families across the San Gabriel Valley.
