Airport Flat Campground
4.6820 reviewsAirport Flat Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
This campground is free of charge and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are required.
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Recreation.gov
Provider530-644-2324
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Eldorado National Forest, Airport Flat Campground offers an authentic escape into California's wilderness without the price tag. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis across 15 thoughtfully spaced individual sites and one expansive group area. Towering pines create a natural cathedral overhead, while modern conveniences like bear-proof storage boxes, sturdy picnic tables, and clean vault toilets ensure comfort meets conservation. Generations of campers have discovered what makes this place special: generous sites that give you room to breathe, a profound quietude broken only by birdsong and wind through the trees, and that rare feeling of having stumbled upon your own private corner of the forest.
Airport Flat Campground offers primitive, first-come, first-served camping for both groups and individuals.
Historical SignificanceAirport Flat has evolved into more than just a campground – it's become a tradition. For decades, outdoor clubs and multi-generational families have returned year after year, their laughter and stories becoming part of the forest's living history. These annual pilgrimages have transformed scattered campsites into a place where memories are made and traditions are born, where grandparents point out the same owl's nest they discovered as children.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Airport Flat into a high-country haven where daytime temperatures dance in the low 90s before dropping to a refreshing 60 degrees once the sun dips behind the pines – perfect for campfire conversations and sleeping under the stars. When winter arrives, the landscape shifts dramatically as cold Pacific storms sweep through, painting the forest in shades of gray and green while delivering the moisture these ancient trees depend upon.
ElevationPerched at 4,100 feet where the Sierra foothills give way to proper mountains, Airport Flat sits in that sweet spot of elevation where Mediterranean influences create an ideal camping climate. Here, the characteristic dry warmth of California summers meets the cooler mountain air, creating conditions that feel just right – not too hot for hiking, not too cold for morning coffee by the fire.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into Airport Flat and find yourself embraced by a living sanctuary of towering pines whose interlocking branches create a natural ceiling of green. A gentle stream whispers nearby, its voice joining the symphony of rustling needles and chirping birds. This isn't just scenery – it's an ecosystem in action, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy to paint shifting patterns on the forest floor, and where the air itself seems cleaner, carrying hints of pine resin and wild earth that remind you why you came to the mountains in the first place.
Geological RegionAirport Flat showcases the Eldorado National Forest at its finest, where the unique Mediterranean climate of the Sierra Nevada creates a landscape unlike anywhere else in North America. This is where bone-dry summers give the forest its golden character, while winter storms rolling in from the Pacific ensure these majestic pines thrive for centuries. The result is a resilient ecosystem that offers campers a front-row seat to California's most iconic natural environment – a place where geological forces, climate patterns, and time have conspired to create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned for this campground.
Sites SizeCampsites are large and can accommodate various setups, including trailers and rigs.
Sites PrivacySites are described as large and well-spaced, providing a sense of privacy.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors are advised to come during weekdays to avoid overcrowding and noise.
Best CampsitesSite 5 is noted for its lack of shade but provides a peaceful camping experience.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days maximum per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not explicitly stated.
Groups
Sites are arranged into pods to accommodate groups of 15–25 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout15 individual campsites organized in pods with gravel paths leading to each site and one group campsite.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNone applicable since reservations are not permitted.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It has 15 individual campsites and one group campsite, subject to availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable since this campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a serene environment for relaxation, with opportunities for wading in a nearby stream and exploring the surrounding forest.
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.Fishing
A small stream near the campground offers limited wading and trout fishing opportunities.Wildlife viewing
The dense pine forest provides opportunities for wildlife viewing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be prohibited depending on local fire restrictions. Portable gas grills are recommended.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsBear-proof storage is provided due to the frequent presence of bears in the area. Caution is advised while wading in the nearby stream due to seasonal water levels.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions may apply.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.1 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 located in Placerville, CA.
Good to know
Peak season datesYear-round availability.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available with garbage and recycling facilities provided.
Proximity to water featuresThere is a small trout stream near the campground, suitable for wading during certain seasons.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention overcrowding and noise during weekends, with large groups reportedly showing poor camping etiquette.
HostThere is no camp host available at this campground.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Placerville, take Highway 50 east for 23 miles, then head 24 miles north on Ice House Road (Forest Road 3) followed by 3 miles north on Forest Road 33.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, making it suitable for all vehicle types, with gravel paths leading to each campsite.Nearby places
Placerville, CA - 23 miles away
Sacramento, CA - 63 miles away
South Lake Tahoe, CA - approximately 65 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Placerville, CA - 23 miles away is likely the closest source for groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.7
20 reviews
Airport Flat Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's affordability, peaceful setting, and basic amenities. However, some issues with overcrowding during weekends are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the large, spacious sites, the peaceful and quiet atmosphere, and the availability of basic amenities such as picnic tables and bear boxes. The campground's free status is frequently...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Weekend overcrowding, noise from large groups, and lack of maintenance (e.g., trash left by previous campers) were common complaints. Some reviewers also noted the degradation of the campground's...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience, bringing plenty of water, and being prepared for dry camping without running water or electricity.
Based on 20 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular due to warm, dry weather with highs in the 90s and lows around 60°F. However, weekends are busier during this season.
Based on 20 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campsites are large and have multiple family sites." - Michael Littman. "Very peaceful place full of pine trees." - NomadShabs. "Bring your own water, no camp host, but it's first come-first...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5 was noted for having limited shade, but overall, sites are praised for being spacious and accommodating.
Based on 20 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were available.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no significant issues were noted by reviewers regarding bringing pets.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025