Cibbets Flat Campground
4.5337 reviewsCibbets Flat Campground
$14.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$28.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are $14/day for single sites and $28/day for double sites. An Adventure Pass is required for parking ($5/day or $30 annually).
About this campground
Escape to Cibbets Flat Campground, where 25 thoughtfully spaced sites nestle beneath a canopy of ancient oaks, offering the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness tranquility. This hidden gem along the legendary Pacific Crest Trail welcomes adventurers with well-maintained vault toilets, refreshing running water, and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that makes you forget the outside world exists.
Cibbets Flat Campground offers a simple, primitive camping experience. It caters to tent and small RV campers, emphasizing a connection with nature rather than luxury.
Historical SignificanceThis cherished waypoint has long served as a sanctuary for Pacific Crest Trail through-hikers, who speak of it in hushed, reverent tones around campfires. Known throughout the hiking community as a place where solitude still reigns supreme, Cibbets Flat has earned its reputation as a restorative haven where weary travelers find both physical rest and spiritual renewal.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's gentle rhythm throughout the year in this Mediterranean-climate paradise. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking temperatures, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues. Summer days remain pleasantly moderate under the protective oak canopy, and winter occasionally dusts the campground with a magical layer of snow, transforming familiar trails into wonderlands.
ElevationPerched at just the right altitude to escape the sweltering heat of the valleys below, this mountain retreat offers a natural air conditioning system that keeps temperatures comfortable even during the warmest months. The moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate where cool mountain breezes whisper through the trees and morning mist dances across the landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic oak sentinels spread their protective branches over the campground, creating a living cathedral where dappled sunlight filters through ancient leaves. The surrounding chaparral-covered slopes burst with native California beauty, while dramatic mountain vistas frame every sunrise and sunset. Lucky campers might spot gray foxes padding silently through the underbrush at dusk, while a symphony of native birds provides the perfect natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.
Geological RegionTucked within the rugged embrace of Cleveland National Forest, Cibbets Flat showcases Southern California's wild heart. Here, weathered granite peaks rise above seas of chaparral, while groves of magnificent oaks mark the secret springs and seasonal streams that have shaped this landscape for millennia. The dramatic terrain tells the story of ancient geological forces, creating a playground of ridges, valleys, and hidden meadows waiting to be explored.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about accessibility features for people with disabilities. However, some users have mentioned accessible tables in certain sites, which may indicate limited accessibility accommodations.
Sites SizeCampsites provide ample space for tents, small trailers, and vans. Each site accommodates approximately two vehicles or a vehicle with a small trailer.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are spaced out to offer a decent level of privacy. The surrounding oak trees and vegetation provide shaded and partially secluded spots.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure shaded spots near the creek or meadow.
Best CampsitesMany reviews recommend Campsite #10 for its privacy and shade provided by large oak trees. Sites near the creek are praised for tranquility.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservation required.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to two vehicles or one small trailer.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground is small and compact but offers privacy thanks to the large oak trees and designated areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve with ample availability during weekdays and off-peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyThis campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations or cancellations available.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and camping. The proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a significant draw for hikers. Other recreational pursuits include birding, photography, and exploring nearby streams and meadows. Stargazing is notably excellent due to the lack of light pollution.
Hiking
Hiking is a major feature, with direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The trail offers picturesque views and opportunities for both casual walks and more strenuous hikes. One reviewer stated, "Great hiking on the PCT trail," while another remarked, "I got a little over 17 miles in hiking completed, part of which was on the PCT." Other trails in the vicinity include Fred Canyon Road.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highly praised, with campers reporting sightings of a silver fox, birds, and other local fauna. "I saw the local grey fox and many birds," one reviewer shared. Another added, "The birds sing beautifully in the morning!"Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to the primitive nature of the campground. One user noted that it gets cold in winter, and snow can occasionally occur, making it a peaceful retreat for solitude seekers.Water Sports
Water-based sports are not available as the campground lacks lakes or large bodies of water suitable for such activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are available at each site. Firewood must be purchased locally. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods.
- Quiet hours are Quiet atmosphere due to remote location; no specific hours listed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential encounters with wildlife such as snakes and ants. Fire restrictions are common in dry seasons.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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 accessible in San Diego (~55 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesN/A
Trash and recyclingA dumpster is provided on-site for trash and recycling. Reviewers have noted this as a helpful convenience for campers.
Proximity to water featuresA small creek runs near the campground, offering a serene ambiance. No swimming is permitted.
Common complaintsSome users report nuisance bugs such as horse flies and ants, while others mention the lack of firewood available for purchase.
HostCamp hosts Tim and Kathy maintain clean facilities and provide helpful information about the area.
Campground Map
The campground is 55 miles east of San Diego, accessible via Interstate 8 and Old Highway 80. The road is paved and easily navigable for standard vehicles.
Nearby places
San Diego, CA: ~55 miles
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies can be acquired in Pine Valley (~10 miles) at the local market.
Camper Reviews
4.5
37 reviews
Cibbets Flat Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews consistently praise the campground's cleanliness, peaceful setting, and proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail. Campers enjoy the shade provided by oak trees, the availability of potable water, and the clean vault toilets. However, some mention the lack of firewood for sale and minimal cell service as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive comments frequently mention the clean facilities, friendly hosts, well-spaced campsites, and scenic hiking opportunities. One camper stated, "Bathrooms are clean and well-maintained," while...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of firewood for sale, issues with insects such as horseflies and ants, and limited cell phone service. Some users also mentioned that the creek is not suitable for...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing firewood, arriving early to secure a spot since it is first-come, first-served, and using herbal bug sprays to deter insects. One user suggested purchasing an annual...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most favored seasons due to moderate weather and fewer insects. Summer can be hot, and winter is colder, but the lack of crowds makes it appealing for solitude seekers.
Based on 37 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "This is such a sweet spot. Clean and well-maintained by the camp hosts Tim and Kathy." 2. "Bathrooms are clean and well-stocked." 3. "Running water, fire pits, and clean bathrooms... what more...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is particularly popular for its large oak trees and accessibility features. Multiple reviewers noted its peaceful setting at the end of the campground.
Based on 37 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility information is limited, though some users mention accessible features such as tables. No specific reviews from campers with disabilities were identified.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and appreciated by visitors. One review stated, "They are also dog-friendly, leashed of course."
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025