We just did a quick weekend trip to Crystal Lake in the San Gabriel Mountains just North of Azusa, CA. I love it up there! It is only an hour and a half drive from our home in Huntington Beach and a whole nother world! The camp sites are well spaced apart and it wasn't crowded. We will be doing lots of weekend trips up there!
One more thank you for sharing photos of your weekend camp spot. Crystal Lake Campground looks peaceful and beautiful.
I looked up information on the campground. It's only $12 to camp there. It seems like it might be a nice location for a teardrop gathering. There is even a well rated trading post, snack bar and cafe nearby.