Barton Flats
4.64333 reviewsSAN BERNARDINO
Barton Flats
$36.00 - $71.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
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$8.00
Individual campsites range from $36 to $71 per night during peak season. A $2 additional fee applies during holidays. Reservation service fees vary based on method of booking.
About this campground
Escape to Barton Flats Campground, where mountain adventures await at every turn. This beloved basecamp in the San Bernardino National Forest connects you to a world of outdoor pursuits—from tranquil mornings fishing the Santa Ana River to afternoon paddles across glassy Jenks Lake. Well-appointed with modern amenities including flush toilets, hot showers, and fresh drinking water, the campground strikes the perfect balance between wilderness immersion and creature comforts. Paved parking aprons welcome RVs and trailers, while the surrounding trails beckon hikers and horseback riders to explore the pine-scented heights.
Barton Flats Campground offers a variety of camping options, including sites for tents and RVs. Group sites and accessible sites are also available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect mountain weather to Barton Flats, with comfortable days averaging 84°F and refreshingly cool nights dipping to 56°F—ideal for campfire gatherings and restful sleep. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a painter's palette of gold and crimson, while crisp air carries the scent of changing seasons. Winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude. During peak camping season, you'll enjoy predominantly dry conditions with brilliant blue skies stretching overhead.
ElevationPerched at 6,360 feet in the sky, Barton Flats offers a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations. This mile-high haven delivers naturally air-conditioned camping, where summer temperatures stay pleasantly cool and the thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every breath. The elevation creates an ideal climate for both relaxation and recreation, making it a favorite retreat for those seeking respite from valley heat.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines and sturdy oaks create a living cathedral around Barton Flats, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. At 6,360 feet, the campground rests in a serene pocket of the San Bernardino wilderness, where morning mist often clings to the treetops and evening light paints the forest gold. The gentle murmur of the nearby Santa Ana River provides nature's soundtrack, while glimpses of Jenks Lake sparkle through the trees, promising aquatic adventures just minutes away.
Geological RegionThe San Bernardino Mountains cradle Barton Flats in their ancient embrace, offering campers a chance to sleep among geological wonders millions of years in the making. This mountain forest ecosystem thrives at 6,360 feet, where weathered granite peaks rise above dense stands of pine and oak. The rugged terrain tells the story of tectonic forces and glacial carving, creating the dramatic landscape that makes this region a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a sanctuary for those seeking mountain solitude.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites and facilities are available, including flush toilets and showers. Some accessible sites are specifically mentioned in the campground information.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious, accommodating single and double sites with room for tents, RVs, and vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. While some are well-spaced and shaded, others are closer together with limited vegetation for seclusion.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites away from the highway for reduced noise and better privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in loops and include single and double campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 21 to October 25 (reservable). Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityBarton Flats does not offer walk-up or first-come-first-served sites; all reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s use fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Barton Flats Campground offers a broad range of recreational activities that attract nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The Santa Ana River Trail is a notable highlight for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Jenks Lake provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Wildlife viewing and stargazing are also popular activities.
Hiking
The Santa Ana River Trail and the 2.5-mile Rio Monte Trail are accessible from the campground. The Jenks Lake Trail offers an additional option, leading to a scenic lake with picnic areas. Trails vary in length and difficulty, accommodating both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.Fishing
Fishing is available at Jenks Lake and the nearby Santa Ana River. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and features largemouth bass, bluegill, and sunfish. Fishing conditions at times vary based on water levels.Biking
The Santa Ana River Trail is a favored route for biking. It offers scenic views and a mix of difficulty levels.Boating
Non-motorized boating, including canoeing and kayaking, is allowed at Jenks Lake.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe a range of wildlife, including deer, birds, and squirrels. Some have noted the boldness of ground squirrels near campsites.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs are held at the nearby Grayback Amphitheater during summer. Topics often focus on local wildlife and natural history.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though the campground closes for the off-season.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized boating activities like canoeing and kayaking at Jenks Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood available for purchase onsite.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM onwards.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are a known hazard; visitors must follow food storage regulations. Occasional flooding and erosion impact certain campsites.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions. Highway 38 construction may cause detours.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.8 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
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 21 to October 25.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available but are noted as being inconveniently located for some sites. Heavy metal lids, which can be difficult to open, are used to secure dumpsters.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Jenks Lake (non-motorized boating and fishing) and the Santa Ana River (fishing).
Common complaintsComplaints include inconsistent enforcement of rules by camp hosts, limited hot water in showers, and music restrictions.
HostHosts Elise and Layne are repeatedly praised for their friendliness and diligence, though some users report strict enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
SAN BERNARDINO
Driving directionsTake I-10 East to Redlands. Take the University Street exit, EXIT 80. Turn left (northbound) on University Street. Turn right onto E. Lugonia Avenue/SR-38. Continue on State Highway 38 for approximately 18 miles to the campground entrance.
Accessible via paved roads from Highway 38. Road access is typically reliable year-round, although construction or closures on Route 38 may require extensive detours—check ahead during peak travel periods.Camper Reviews
4.6
333 reviews
Barton Flats is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Barton Flats receives generally positive reviews, with an average sentiment score of 4.5. Visitors commend the natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and clear rules enforced by camp hosts. However, some guests have criticized the hosts' attitudes and noted occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 333 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the campground's cleanliness, scenic surroundings, spacious campsites, and accessible amenities. Hosts were often described as friendly and helpful. The proximity to hiking trails...
Based on 333 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include inconsistent enforcement of rules by camp hosts, occasional closures of showers, lack of shade at certain sites, and issues with road or construction noise. Some users felt...
Based on 333 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing earplugs to mitigate noise, choosing shaded sites for summer stays, and carrying extra supplies due to limited nearby stores. Visiting during weekdays is advised for...
Based on 333 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, though some visitors report high site occupancy and variable noise levels. Off-season visits are quieter, with fewer crowds. Winter sees campground closures.
Based on 333 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground is beautiful but the camp hosts were a letdown. Elise and Layne were particularly helpful during our stay.'
2. 'Jenks Lake Trail was a highlight. The views were breathtaking.'
3....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14 is highly praised for its shaded seclusion, while site 49 is noted for its lack of shade. Site 33 received positive feedback for its spaciousness and proximity to trails.
Based on 333 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites and facilities are available, though reviews specifically highlighting accessibility experiences were limited.
Based on 333 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and pet-related experiences are not prominently mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 333 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025