Most often I travel through the Bradford trail since I live near Lake Arrowhead. I have never not seen campers on the beach summer or winter. Most often they do not get cited. I wish they would more often. Often this crowd leaves their trash and leaves what is left of their fire on the beach. Especially on a holiday weekend it is common to see seventy five tents on the beach. I have a few favorite campsites that are pretty difficult to spot about twenty minutes away from the Hot Springs. Some times I hang out near the warm springs and read a book. If you use some common sense and find a secluded shady spot at least a half-mile away the chances are nobody will ever bother you. In more than thirty five years never had any confrontations from the BLM folks. The Bradford trail is easy unless there is no moon and well after dark. Watch for snakes if you go late after noon into evening. Allow up to two hours. Never any parking fees. Only the north section of 173 is open. So you must access it through HYWY 18 or 138. Often I arrive at the trailhead about 6:30 PM hike to the springs say hello and then go set up camp and go back to the springs around 9:00 PM go back to camp and turn it. For sure you will have a good time.
