Oak Flat Campground
4.0717 reviewsIn Upper Lake, CA, at intersection of State Rt. 20 and Main St., take Main St. 0.9 miles to Elk Mountain Rd. (a.k.a. County Rt. 301 and Forest Rt. M1). Turn left onto Elk Mountain Rd. and go 27.1 miles to a "T" intersection. Turn right, staying on Rt. M1, and go 4.1 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.
Oak Flat Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Overnight use: $10 per night during summer; $5 per night during winter.
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About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of majestic oaks in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Oak Flat Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape along the shores of Lake Pillsbury. This intimate hideaway features 12 thoughtfully spaced sites that capture the essence of dispersed camping while maintaining easy access to the lake's recreational opportunities. When neighboring Sunset Point reaches capacity, Oak Flat becomes a coveted refuge for those seeking a more secluded camping experience. Open throughout all four seasons, this year-round sanctuary invites adventurers to discover the ever-changing beauty of Northern California's backcountry.
The campground offers standard primitive camping facilities with options for both tent and RV campers.
Historical SignificanceOak Flat holds a special place in the region's ecological tapestry as part of the protected habitat for the magnificent tule elk. Each spring, this area becomes a nursery ground during the elk calving season, prompting a thoughtful pause in off-highway vehicle activities from May 18 through September 8. This annual tradition honors the delicate balance between recreation and conservation, allowing visitors to witness one of California's great wildlife success stories while respecting the natural rhythms of these majestic creatures.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Oak Flat in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and an explosion of wildflowers, bringing frequent wildlife encounters as animals emerge from winter's quiet. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched haven where the oak canopy provides welcome relief from the heat, perfect for lazy afternoons before evening lake adventures. Autumn brings crisp air and golden light filtering through the changing leaves, while winter offers a peaceful solitude rarely found in California campgrounds, with cool temperatures that make campfire gatherings especially memorable.
ElevationPerched at 1,850 feet in the Sierra foothills, Oak Flat offers the perfect elevation for year-round comfort. This sweet spot above the valley floor provides cooler temperatures than the lowlands while remaining accessible even during winter months. Each campsite features a natural dirt parking area that blends seamlessly with the forest floor, preserving the authentic camping atmosphere while providing level spaces for your wilderness home-away-from-home.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient valley oaks stand as sentinels throughout Oak Flat, their massive branches creating natural cathedral ceilings that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Just steps away, Lake Pillsbury's sparkling waters beckon with promises of swimming, fishing, and boating adventures. The nearby Gravelly Valley Airstrip adds an unexpected element of adventure, where small aircraft touch down against the backdrop of forested mountains. This unique combination of towering oaks, waterfront access, and wide-open skies creates a landscape that feels both intimate and expansive.
Geological RegionOak Flat sits at the intersection of multiple worlds within Mendocino National Forest's diverse landscape. Here, the rolling oak woodlands meet the engineered shoreline of Lake Pillsbury, while the historic Gravelly Valley Airstrip provides a window into the region's aviation heritage. The campground's signature oak groves tell the story of centuries-old ecosystems that have adapted to Mediterranean climate patterns, creating pockets of shade and habitat within the larger tapestry of pine forests and chaparral that characterize this corner of the Coastal Range.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site does not have wheelchair-friendly toilets nor specific accessibility accommodations.
Sites SizeThe campsites are large and informal, giving a dispersed camping atmosphere.
Sites PrivacySome campsites are spread out, offering privacy, while others are closer together.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended Campsites“Some sites are spread out, offering privacy, while others are closer to neighboring campers. Access to trails right from the campground.”
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite recommendations are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
11:00 a.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Campsite size accommodates dispersed camping feel
- specific guest limits are null.
Groups
No information available about group-specific sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDispersed and informal campsites with dirt parking aprons. Nine sites with tables and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen all year. Not seasonal.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served. Campground does fill up during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are null.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Oak Flat Campground provides various recreational activities, primarily focused on outdoor exploration and lake-based pursuits.
Hiking
The Lakeshore Trail, measuring 4 miles and open for both foot and horseback traffic, offers scenic views for nature enthusiasts.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include species like black bass, rainbow trout, sunfish, salmon, and steelhead in Lake Pillsbury.Boating
The nearby Lake Pillsbury supports a range of boating activities including power boating, motorized boating, and non-powered options such as canoeing. Boat ramps are available at nearby Sunset Point and Fuller Grove campgrounds.Wildlife viewing
The area is known for its tule elk population. During specific seasons like spring, elk bugling is a notable feature that enhances the wildlife-viewing experience.Winter Activities
No specific details provided about winter recreation options.Water Sports
Water sports include water skiing, sailing, and kayaking in Lake Pillsbury.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No campfires or stoves allowed due to seasonal restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is common in the area. Roads and parking aprons are rough and irregular.
Active alertsWater turned off due to leaks and broken pipes.
Weather forecast
97
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.9 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
Nearest emergency services are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season corresponds to summer months (higher fees apply).
Trash and recyclingNo specific details available about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresNext to Lake Pillsbury; ideal for boating, fishing, and water skiing. The lake is 2,280 acres and used to generate power.
Common complaintsLoud noise from off-road riders during peak season; dusty conditions; limited facilities like water and smooth parking aprons.
Host“Campground host was great, friendly and professional. Knowledgeable about the area too.”
Campground Map
In Upper Lake, CA, at intersection of State Rt. 20 and Main St., take Main St. 0.9 miles to Elk Mountain Rd. (a.k.a. County Rt. 301 and Forest Rt. M1). Turn left onto Elk Mountain Rd. and go 27.1 miles to a "T" intersection. Turn right, staying on Rt. M1, and go 4.1 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.
Driving directions6 miles north of Ukiah on US 101, 5 miles east on California Highway 20, 26 miles northwest on County Road 240 (Potter Valley-Lake Pillsbury Road). Accessible through Upper Lake traveling 31 miles north on County Road 301 (Forest Road M-1).
The interior road is rough, and parking aprons are dirt, irregular, and informal.Nearby places
Ukiah (6 miles north on US 101), Upper Lake (31 miles north on County Road 301).
Nearby supplies
Water must be brought to camp or purchased at the Soda Creek Store. Groceries and supplies are available in nearby Upper Lake, CA.
Camper Reviews
4.1
17 reviews
Oak Flat Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's rustic charm, proximity to Lake Pillsbury, and the presence of wildlife, especially tule elk. However, some users noted negatives like dust, lack of potable water, and noise during peak OHV season.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, friendly campground host, good separation between some campsites, natural beauty of Lake Pillsbury, and the unique experience of hearing elk bugling at night.
Based on 17 reviewsCommon Concerns
Dusty conditions, lack of potable water, noise from off-road vehicles during peak OHV season, and rough interior roads.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water. Visit during the off-season for a quieter experience. Engage in wildlife viewing during spring.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring is recommended for its cooler temperatures and abundant wildlife. Summer can be dusty and noisy due to OHV activity. Winter offers solitude as it's the only open campground in the area.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Restrooms were spotless and stocked with paper." 2. "Campground doesn't currently have running water." 3. "The roaming elk is one of the best features!" 4. "In winter/off season it's the only...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not individually reviewed by number, but users noted a mix of private and clustered setups. The campground is described as offering a dispersed camping feel in certain spots.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
None of the reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews provide information about pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025