Big Flat Campground
4.5912 reviewsBig Flat Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
The site charges $8 per vehicle per night. An additional $5 fee applies for extra vehicles. Campers with an Interagency Senior Pass or Access Pass receive a 50% discount.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Smith River National Recreation Area, Big Flat Campground offers an intimate escape where the modern world fades into memory. This hidden gem welcomes just a handful of adventurous souls at a time, creating an atmosphere of profound tranquility. Here, the melodic babbling of Hurdygurdy Creek serves as nature's soundtrack, while towering trees stand sentinel over your campsite. Those who discover Big Flat often speak of its transformative power – a place where true wilderness camping still exists, untouched by crowds and commerce.
Big Flat Campground offers primitive camping with 24 combined sites for tents and trailers. RV accommodations are minimal, with two pull-through sites. There are no group sites or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceBig Flat carries the echoes of the dramatic 1964 flood that reshaped this landscape and left its mark on the surrounding wilderness. Exploring the area reveals subtle reminders of this powerful natural event, offering campers a tangible connection to the forces that have sculpted the Smith River region over time. These historic sites serve as outdoor classrooms, telling the story of nature's resilience and the ever-changing character of this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Big Flat awakens with perfect camping weather that transitions from crisp, invigorating mornings to pleasantly warm afternoons. Summer visitors should note that the creek's proximity creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes during peak season – pack your favorite repellent to ensure comfort during evening campfires. As autumn approaches, the campground prepares for its winter slumber, becoming inaccessible as nature reclaims the access roads until spring's return.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 600 feet above sea level, Big Flat enjoys a sweet spot in the Smith River canyon that delivers ideal camping conditions. This modest elevation creates a microclimate that stays refreshingly cool even during summer's peak, while remaining warm enough for comfortable spring and fall adventures. The elevation provides just enough buffer from the valley heat without the chill of higher mountain camps.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where massive Douglas firs reach skyward alongside stately tanoaks, creating a canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns across your campsite. The understory bursts with native huckleberry bushes and diverse shrubs that paint the landscape in varying shades of green. Just a quarter-mile stroll leads to the crystalline waters of the South Fork Smith River, where emerald pools and gentle rapids create postcard-perfect scenes. The semi-open campground design offers the perfect balance – some sites bask in warming sunshine while others nestle in cool, dappled shade.
Geological RegionBig Flat occupies a special corner of the Klamath Mountains, where ancient geological forces have created a landscape of extraordinary diversity. The campground rests in a pocket of relative gentleness amid rugged terrain, cradled by Hurdygurdy Creek's patient carving through centuries-old rock. This remote sanctuary showcases the region's signature ecosystem – a rich tapestry of Douglas fir forests interwoven with tanoak groves, all thriving in the unique soil and climate conditions that make this corner of California unlike anywhere else. The South Fork Smith River, flowing just a stone's throw away, continues its timeless work of sculpting the canyon that defines this remarkable wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, but no further details about accessibility features are provided.
Sites Size"Most sites have lots of room. We have a 24-foot travel trailer and a 10-person tent, and there was still tons of room," one user review noted.
Sites PrivacyThe campground provides good privacy with shrubs and grass filling in between sites. "Good-sized spots with privacy between spaces," according to a user review.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific site recommendations, but reviews mention most sites are large and private, with some having pathways leading to secluded fire pits and picnic tables.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14-day limit
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes 24 sites, all equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. The sites are semi-open, with some shaded and partially shaded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 15 to September 15.
Reservation PlatformsNo online or phone reservation platforms. First-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors are advised to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations available; all campsites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Big Flat Campground include hiking and access to nearby rivers and creeks. While there is no on-site river access, Hurdygurdy Creek is accessible from the campground, and the South Fork of the Smith River is within a half-mile. Swimming is noted by users as possible but requires a short walk.
Hiking
Hiking is available, including an 'All Access Trail' that connects to Hurdygurdy Creek. "Lots of trails for hiking and horses as we saw," one user noted.Fishing
Fishing opportunities exist in the pristine South Fork of the Smith River. One user mentioned, "The river is pristine! ... thousands of fry from the six varieties of fish species in the river."Swimming
Swimming is possible in nearby rivers, but access may be steep or challenging. "Hurdygurdy Creek was good for a refreshing dip on a hot day," according to a user review.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible given the remote and natural setting, but specific details are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not an option as the campground is closed during winter.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are possible on nearby rivers but not directly supported on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings with grills.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is home to wildlife, including snakes, bears, and big cats. Campers should store food securely.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.2 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
Specific emergency services information is not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash service is provided on-site. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is bordered by Hurdygurdy Creek but has no direct river access. The South Fork of the Smith River is approximately 0.25 miles away.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are a frequent complaint. Some campers also mention noise from the road and a lack of potable water.
HostOne review mentions a good camp host, but another notes that the campground lacks a host at times, leading to occasional noise and disturbances.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Crescent City, CA, take US Rt. 101 north 2.7 miles to US Rt. 199 (Grants Pass). Bear right onto Rt. 199 and go 7.2 miles to South Fork Rd. Turn right onto South Fork Rd. On South Fork Rd., stay left past the second bridge to road marker 14.1. Turn left onto County Rt. 405 and go 0.2 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is paved all the way except for the last quarter mile. However, some reviews mention that the turn-off is not well-indicated. Roads are tarred, and the final entry stretch is gravel.Nearby places
Crescent City (approximately 25 miles, driving time varies due to road conditions).
Nearby supplies
Supplies are not directly mentioned
visitors should plan to bring all necessities, including water, as potable water is unavailable at the site.
Camper Reviews
4.6
12 reviews
Big Flat Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Big Flat Campground receives positive reviews for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and remote, peaceful atmosphere. Negative feedback highlights noise issues from nearby roads and partying campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
"Nice and clean. Good-sized spots with privacy between spaces," "Campground and bathrooms were spotless," and "Beautiful campground on the Smith River!"
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
"LOTS of mosquitoes and other bugs," "Too close to the road so can be noisy," and "Ruined by people using it as a place to party all night."
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent, drinking water, and cash for payment. Be prepared for no phone service and consider exploring nearby dispersed camping options for a quieter experience.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews highlight that summer and early fall are the most popular times to camp. Mosquitoes are noted as an issue during warmer months.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"One of the best primitive campgrounds out there. Clean, quiet, and $8 a day," and "Nice fire pits with cooking grill. Nice and clean tables."
Based on 12 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites are described as having ample room. Two pull-through sites are available for larger vehicles. "Some sites have pathways to fully private fire pits and picnic tables," one user mentioned.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, but no additional accessibility features are highlighted in reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leashes. One user noted, "Dogs are to stay on a leash."
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025