Navajo Flats Campground

Star0
5 reviews
11156 Red Hill Rd, Santa Margarita, CA
Navajo Flats Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard campsite fees are $30 per night during peak season (January 1 - November 1). Additional charges apply for weekends (+$2) and holidays (+$2).
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$30.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
805 434 1996customerservice@pmcparks.com

About this campground

Tucked away in the rugged wilderness, Navajo Flat Campground beckons adventure seekers with its promise of untamed trails and authentic outdoor experiences. This intimate, back-to-basics retreat serves as the perfect basecamp for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, offering immediate access to an impressive network of 45 miles of marked trails that wind through diverse terrain. While amenities remain purposefully simple to preserve the natural experience, the campground provides everything needed for those who appreciate the freedom of self-sustained camping and the thrill of exploring California's backcountry on wheels.
Navajo Flats Campground offers basic camping facilities, primarily catering to tent and OHV enthusiasts. RV camping is possible, though there are no hookups.
Historical SignificanceWhile Navajo Flat may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its significance lies in the present – as a modern-day gathering place where the OHV community creates new stories and traditions with each visit.
Weather and SeasonsThe climate here tells a story of California's characteristic dry spells punctuated by winter's refreshing rains. As spring awakens the landscape and summer heat settles in, the local insect population comes alive, creating a buzzing symphony that reminds visitors to pack their favorite bug repellent. Winter months occasionally prompt temporary trail closures when rain transforms the dusty paths into muddy challenges, but these brief interludes only add to the anticipation of perfect riding conditions that follow.
ElevationThe campground's elevation remains one of its delightful mysteries, inviting visitors to discover for themselves the unique perspective this mountain setting provides.
Natural Features and SceneryA stunning tapestry of oak, conifer, and chaparral creates a natural amphitheater around the campground, where rocky outcroppings and hard-packed earth tell the geological story of ages past. For those willing to venture higher, the trails lead to breathtaking rewards – from the lofty perch of Pozo Summit, the Pacific coastline stretches to the west while the majestic Sierra Mountains command the eastern horizon, creating panoramic vistas that make every challenging climb worthwhile.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Los Padres National Forest, Navajo Flat occupies a unique geological crossroads where ancient rock formations meet resilient vegetation. The campground's setting showcases nature's artistry through its distinctive blend of rocky terrain adorned with hardy oaks, towering conifers, and aromatic chaparral. This rugged landscape serves as more than just a backdrop – it's an integral part of the adventure, with trails ascending to spectacular viewpoints like Pozo Summit, where the dramatic meeting of mountain and sea creates unforgettable vistas of both the Sierra Nevada range and the distant Pacific coastline.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campground includes six campsites, with five featuring shaded canopy structures.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly described.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor quieter stays, avoid holidays and weekends. Campsite 06 is recommended for families with children due to proximity to the beginner's track.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight campsite 06 as being exceptionally quiet and family-friendly, particularly during Thanksgiving weekend.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping fee includes 1 vehicle and 1 tent, trailer, or RV. Each additional vehicle costs $10.
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground comprises six sites, five with shaded canopy structures, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but reservable from January 1 to November 1 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov and CampOne.com.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated; reservations are recommended due to limited campsite availability (6 sites).
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before arrival with a $10 fee and forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations incur the first night's recreation fee. Changes to reservation dates incur a $10 fee if fully different dates are selected.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is a hub for OHV enthusiasts, with direct access to 45 miles of marked trails suitable for ATVs, motorcycles, and quad runners. Additional motorized and non-motorized activities include hiking, fishing, hunting, biking, and equestrian trails. A beginner's track is also available within the campground boundary.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground, with a variety of marked trails leading to nearby natural features.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are mentioned as a nearby activity, but specific details about locations or fish species are not provided.
Biking
Opportunities for mountain biking are available, particularly within the 29-mile radius of the campground.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, but specific species or viewing sites are not detailed.
Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities are detailed.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed within provided fire rings. Fireworks are prohibited at all times.
  • Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 8 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include rocky terrain, sporadic cell service, and flying insects during warmer months.
Active alertsSeasonal trail and road closures may occur during rainy seasons.

Weather forecast

58
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Humidity: 58%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 13.2 mph

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services include Santa Margarita Fire Department and Twin Cities Community Hospital in Templeton, CA.

Good to know

Peak season datesJanuary 1 to November 1 annually.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'Pack it in, Pack it out' facility. Campers are expected to bring garbage bags and manage their own waste.
Proximity to water featuresNo water bodies are mentioned in the immediate vicinity.
Common complaintsComplaints include flying insects during spring, dusty conditions on trails, and occasional road closures due to weather conditions.
HostNo campground hosts are mentioned in the source materials.

Campground Map

11156 Red Hill Rd, Santa Margarita, CA
Driving directionsFrom Santa Margarita, CA, head northeast on H St toward Margarita Ave. Turn right onto CA-58 E 1.4 miles, then turn left to stay on CA-58 E for 22.9 miles. Turn right onto Forest Rte 29S15/Red Hill Rd. Turn left onto Red Hill Rd. Turn left onto Forest Rte 28S02/Red Hill Rd. go 0.5 miles.
Accessible via paved roads until CA-58 E, then transitioning to unpaved Forest Routes, such as Red Hill Rd. Seasonal closures may occur, especially during the rainy season when the roads can become washed out.
Nearby places
Santa Margarita (25 miles), Paso Robles (47 miles), San Luis Obispo (38 miles), Atascadero (30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Gas stations and stores are located 25 miles away in Santa Margarita. Campers must plan ahead for groceries, fuel, and camping supplies due to the distance and lack of onsite amenities.

Camper Reviews

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Navajo Flats Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as a haven for OHV enthusiasts, with well-maintained trails and a clean environment. However, bug issues and weather-related access problems are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback includes the excellent trails for OHV use, a clean and quiet campground, and family-friendly beginner tracks.
Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback focuses on the abundance of flying insects during spring, sporadic cell service, and occasional road closures due to weather damage.
Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing substantial bug repellent, safety gear for OHV activities, and being fully self-sustainable due to the lack of on-site amenities.
Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring is noted for high insect activity, while Thanksgiving weekend was described as quiet and enjoyable. Rainy seasons can lead to trail closures and more challenging terrain.
Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Amazing trails, clean campground quiet for Thanksgiving weekend.' 2. 'Bring your dust goggles!' 3. 'Take an arsenal of bug stuff! And I mean an Arsenal!' 4. 'The rain has changed the trails a bit...
Show more
Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 06 (Loop 2) is specifically praised for its cleanliness and suitability for family-friendly activities.
Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific user feedback on pet-related experiences is provided.
Based on 5 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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