Mannings Flat 2 Campground
02 reviews17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville, CA, 95446-9587
Mannings Flat 2 Campground
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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 vary based on site types. Bullfrog Pond Campground charges $35 per night, with reduced rates for seniors ($33 per night). Backcountry camping is currently closed but normally costs $25 per night.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Austin Creek State Recreation Area, Mannings Flat 2 Campground beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This primitive tent camping haven sits peacefully in a secluded pocket of Northern California's coastal mountains, where the rhythms of nature replace the buzz of modern life. Here, campers wake to sweeping mountain vistas and fall asleep under star-filled skies, embracing the raw beauty and remote tranquility that make this destination truly special.
"Mannings Flat 2 Campground is part of Austin Creek State Recreation Area, which historically offers primitive and family camping options.
Historical SignificanceBeyond its natural splendor, Austin Creek State Recreation Area holds treasures of human creativity and heritage. The crown jewel of its historical legacy is the renowned Pond Farm Pottery, designated as a National Historic Landmark. This artistic sanctuary stands as a testament to the area's role in California's cultural landscape, where master potters once drew inspiration from the same breathtaking surroundings that captivate today's visitors.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground's weather tells a tale of dramatic contrasts throughout the year. Summer days unfold with crisp, invigorating mornings that give way to intense afternoon heat, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F—perfect for those who love the warmth but appreciate a cool start to their adventures. Winter transforms the landscape into a moody masterpiece, bringing over 50 inches of rainfall that nourish the surrounding forests. Occasional below-freezing temperatures and rare snow flurries add a touch of alpine magic to this coastal mountain retreat.
ElevationThe campground's mountain setting creates its own microclimate and ecosystem, though specific elevation details await discovery by each visitor who ventures into these coastal heights.
Natural Features and SceneryMannings Flat 2 sits at the crossroads of California's most captivating ecosystems. The landscape unfolds like a living tapestry—golden grasslands flow into aromatic chaparral, while ancient oak woodlands give way to towering conifer forests. Each turn reveals breathtaking vistas of the coastal mountains, their ridges and valleys painted in ever-changing light. This remarkable diversity creates endless opportunities for wildlife watching and nature photography, making every camping trip a unique adventure.
Geological RegionNorthern California's geological artistry is on full display at Austin Creek State Recreation Area. The terrain tells an ancient story through its dramatic contrasts—sun-baked southerly hillsides stand in stark opposition to the cool, sheltered northeast slopes. Deep canyons carved by time serve as natural water collectors, creating lush microhabitats within the broader landscape. This intricate mosaic of grasslands, chaparral thickets, oak woodlands, and conifer forests showcases the incredible biodiversity that emerges when coastal influences meet mountain environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe authoritative source includes a link to a broader accessibility guide for Austin Creek State Recreation Area, but no specific details relating to Mannings Flat 2 Campground are provided.
Sites Privacy"User reviews suggest the campground may be secluded, aligning with comments about a hidden-away location.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNone provided.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers are unavailable for Mannings Flat 2 Campground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum occupancy per site is 16 people.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per site is 16 people.
Groups
"No group-specific camping details are provided for Mannings Flat 2 Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes separate campsites with picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is currently closed due to fire hazards. Camping availability is subject to seasonal conditions once reopened.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Hipcamp.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is generally allowed but currently restricted due to closure.
Cancellation PolicyInformation on cancellation policies is not provided.
Activities you can enjoy
Austin Creek SRA offers diverse activities including hiking, swimming, fishing, and cultural programs. However, due to the closure, activities specifically at Mannings Flat 2 Campground are not accessible.
Hiking
"Hiking trails are a key feature of Austin Creek State Recreation Area. User reviews praise hiking opportunities, suggesting trails offer beautiful views of coastal mountains and the surrounding wilderness.Fishing
"Fishing opportunities are mentioned as available in Austin Creek State Recreation Area, though specific details on types of fish or conditions at Mannings Flat 2 Campground are absent.Swimming
"General swimming activities are noted within Austin Creek SRA, but no specific details regarding designated swimming areas at Mannings Flat 2 Campground exist.Biking
"Bicycles are allowed on paved roads and fire roads within Austin Creek SRA, but not on trails. Specific biking opportunities at Mannings Flat 2 Campground are undefined.Wildlife viewing
"User reviews and authoritative sources suggest diverse plant and animal life in Austin Creek SRA, contributing to wildlife viewing opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
"Cultural programs are available in the park, including historical exhibits and interpretive events, though specific offerings at Mannings Flat 2 Campground are not detailed.Winter Activities
"Austin Creek State Recreation Area experiences snowfall and freezing temperatures in winter, which may offer opportunities for winter recreation such as snowshoeing or hiking under specific conditions.Water Sports
"Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned in relation to Mannings Flat 2 Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire bans are enforced during periods of extreme danger. Propane camp stoves are allowed for cooking.
- Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsSignificant hazards exist due to the fire damage from the 2020 Walbridge Fire. Seasonal risks include ticks, mosquitoes, and rattlesnakes.
Active alertsThe park is currently closed due to fire hazards and debris clearing.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emergency services are unavailable within the vicinity due to the park closure.
Good to know
Peak season datesSeasonality details are unavailable.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling details for Mannings Flat 2 Campground are not provided, though general park rules emphasize environmental responsibility.
Proximity to water featuresNo specific water features are mentioned.
Common complaintsSeasonal fire bans and closures have been mentioned as concerns. Mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent.
HostCamp hosts are usually stationed at designated sites but unavailable due to closure. Contact staff for host inquiries.
Campground Map
17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville, CA, 95446-9587
Access is currently restricted due to the closure of Austin Creek State Recreation Area following the 2020 Walbridge Fire. Roads within the park may not be accessible. The recreation area is located seven miles north of Guerneville on Armstrong Woods Road via the same entrance as Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve.
Nearby places
Guerneville (7 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies cannot be accessed within the recreation area due to its closure. Nearby towns like Guerneville may provide necessary provisions.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Mannings Flat 2 Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
"Reviews describe Mannings Flat 2 Campground as secluded and scenic, with great views of the coastal mountains.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
"Positive highlights from reviews emphasize the natural beauty, quiet environment, and suitability for hiking.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
"No explicit complaints are noted in user reviews for Mannings Flat 2 Campground.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Carry plenty of water, wear layered clothing, and prepare for seasonal hazards such as ticks and rattlesnakes, as recommended by official sources.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
"Seasonal weather at Austin Creek SRA varies greatly, with cool mornings and extreme heat in summers, and occasional freezing temperatures and snowfall in winters.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Direct quotes from reviews include: 'Beautiful, kinda hidden away spot. Great for a night of camping and good day hiking.' and 'Great views of the coastal mountains and a nice secluded campground.'
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
"No site-specific reviews are available for Mannings Flat 2 Campground.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
"Accessibility reviews specific to Mannings Flat 2 Campground are not provided.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"General park rules indicate dogs are allowed in designated areas but must be leashed at all times. Specific pet-related reviews for Mannings Flat 2 Campground are lacking.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025