Horse Flat Campground
4.5024 reviewsAngeles National Forest, California
Horse Flat Campground
$5.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $12 per night per site, with an additional $5 charge for extra vehicles. Day-use fees are $5 per vehicle. Interagency Senior and Access Passes provide a 50% discount on camping fees. Adventure or Interagency Pass required for vehicles parked outside the campground.
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About this campground
Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Horse Flats Campground, where 26 thoughtfully spaced campsites await both equestrian enthusiasts and traditional campers seeking an authentic outdoor experience. This rustic mountain retreat features four dedicated horse corrals and multiple hitching posts, making it a haven for riders exploring the backcountry. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Adventure seekers will discover they're perfectly positioned at the crossroads of scenic hiking trails, challenging bouldering routes, and exhilarating mountain biking paths that wind through the surrounding forest.
Horse Flats primarily caters to tent campers and equestrian camping. While it has some RV-accessible sites, the campground lacks hookups and can only accommodate vehicles up to 20 feet in length.
Historical SignificanceHorse Flats carries whispers of the past in its windswept meadows and ancient trails. The campground has evolved significantly since the 1970s, when the US Forest Service undertook major restoration and modernization efforts. One longtime visitor, who participated in surveying the area for these improvements, recalls the transformation that helped preserve this special place for future generations while maintaining its rustic charm and connection to the region's equestrian heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of high-elevation camping where warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool mountain nights during peak season. The exposed nature of many campsites means you'll feel the full warmth of the California sun, as one visitor noted: "It can get super hot here as most sites are exposed." Winter transforms this landscape into a different world entirely, bringing freezing temperatures and occasional snow dustings that blanket the forest in pristine white. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions with moderate temperatures and stunning seasonal changes.
ElevationPerched between 5,600 and 5,800 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains, Horse Flats offers a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations. This mile-high setting creates a unique microclimate where crisp mountain air mingles with the scent of pine and sage. The elevation provides naturally cooler temperatures year-round, making summer camping comfortable and offering occasional winter snow for those seeking a true four-season mountain experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a diverse mountain ecosystem where aromatic sagebrush meadows meet towering Ponderosa pines and twisted Manzanita groves. This varied landscape creates a patchwork of sun-dappled shade and open spaces, with some campsites nestled beneath protective pine canopies while others bask in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The interplay of forest and meadow attracts diverse wildlife and offers photographers endless opportunities to capture the rugged beauty of the Angeles National Forest.
Geological RegionNestled within the rugged terrain of Angeles National Forest, Horse Flats sits at the convergence of multiple ecosystems between 5,600 and 5,800 feet elevation. This unique position in the San Gabriel Mountains showcases the geological diversity of Southern California's high country, where ancient granite formations meet volcanic soils that nourish the distinctive blend of sagebrush scrubland, majestic Ponderosa pine forests, and resilient Manzanita thickets that characterize this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeThe campsite parking aprons are limited in size, often accommodating smaller vehicles and horse trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced, providing a sense of privacy. Some sites are clustered for group camping, while walk-in sites offer further seclusion.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 6-10 are optimal for those with horses due to the corrals and rails available. Some sites are clustered, offering a group environment. Half the tent sites are walk-in.
Best CampsitesSites 6 through 10 are notable for equestrian facilities, including hitching rails and small pipe corrals.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours for check-in.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per campsite not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle large loop layout, with some sites clustered for groups and half designated as walk-in tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from April 15 through November 15.
Reservation PlatformsNone; campsites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, but demand increases during holidays and weekends.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy as the campground is first-come, first-served; reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Horse Flats Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The campground serves as an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking access to trails and bouldering sites.
Hiking
The Silver Moccasin Trail, a 58-mile-long route accessed from the southwest side, invites both hikers and equestrians. This trail is also popular with Boy Scouts earning the Silver Moccasin Badge. The Mt. Hillyer Trail, approximately 1 mile long, provides access to rock climbing opportunities.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Trails such as Mt. Hillyer and Silver Moccasin are accessible for mountain biking, offering varied terrain suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in bear country, requiring campers to employ safe food storage techniques to protect both visitors and wildlife. Other wildlife sightings are likely due to the forested environment.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable to this site.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings available at campsites, but fire use may be restricted due to fire conditions.
- Quiet hours not mentioned in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears and yellow jackets, as highlighted by multiple reviews. "The biggest problem were the bugs!" and "No joke, we woke up to buzzing every morning."
Active alertsCurrent fire restrictions may limit campfire and stove usage.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in La Canada, including hospitals and police stations. However, specific details are not provided.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are explicitly mentioned. Campers are advised to pack out what they pack in.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features, streams run dry in summer.
Common complaintsComplaints include poor ventilation and cleanliness of vault toilets, lack of running water, and issues with yellow jackets during particular seasons. "No running water so it's important to bring plenty," states one user.
Campground Map
Angeles National Forest, California
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 210 in La Canada, exit at Angeles Crest Highway (Hwy. 2) and drive 29 miles to the intersection with the Santa Clara Divide Rd. (3N17) at Three Points (watch for the sign). Turn to the south and drive 3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible from Angeles Crest Highway and Santa Clara Divide Road. Roads are paved, but there are winding sections and elevation changes that may require cautious driving.Nearby places
La Canada (29 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Pasadena (32 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Los Angeles (45 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in La Canada, approximately 29 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
24 reviews
Horse Flat Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's rustic charm and privacy, though criticisms include the lack of water and cleanliness of vault toilets. Overall, the site is appreciated for its seclusion and proximity to trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the privacy between sites, the accessibility of hiking trails, and the beauty of the surrounding area. The horse corrals and hitching posts are valued by equestrian visitors.
Based on 24 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent criticisms include the lack of potable water, poor ventilation in vault toilets, and aggressive yellow jackets, particularly during warmer months.
Based on 24 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water and preparing for yellow jackets by minimizing exposure to food and drinks during the day. Visiting during weekdays is suggested for more seclusion.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention dry streams and aggressive yellow jackets. Spring and fall provide more moderate temperatures, while winter accessibility is limited due to seasonal closures.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
Chelsea Brisson: 'During the week the campground is secluded and a lovely escape. There are fire pits and horse corrals at each site, and trails leading to the climbing area.' Daniel T: 'No running...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 21 was noted for its issues with yellow jackets, potentially due to proximity to a hive or nest.
Based on 24 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available, though their condition has been criticized.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related policies and reviews are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025