Turkey Flat Ohv Staging Area

Star0
1 review
Turkey Flat Ohv Staging Area
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fee includes 1 vehicle and 1 tent, trailer, or RV. Additional vehicles incur a $10 fee. Recreation use fees for activities like ATV riding...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
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$20.00

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

About this campground

Turkey Flat OHV Staging Area beckons to the adventurous spirit, offering a gateway to 45 miles of exhilarating off-road trails that wind through the rugged California backcountry. This no-frills basecamp welcomes riders of all skill levels, from families on their first ATV adventure to seasoned dual-sport motorcyclists seeking technical single-track challenges. Here, the rumble of engines mingles with the whisper of wind through ancient oaks as riders gather to share stories and plan their next trail conquest.
Turkey Flat OHV Staging Area offers flexible camping accommodations catered to self-sufficient campers. Primitive and tent camping options are explicitly supported, but the campground is primarily suited for OHV enthusiasts.
Historical SignificanceWhile the modern story of Turkey Flat centers on off-road recreation, this land has witnessed centuries of change, from indigenous peoples to Spanish explorers to American settlers who carved their lives from these hills.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with California's golden climate, Turkey Flat enjoys remarkably consistent conditions that make it a year-round riding destination. With temperatures hovering around a comfortable 58°F during the day and cooling to a crisp 41°F at night, riders can enjoy the trails without battling extreme heat or cold. The region sees minimal rainfall—just a 9% chance on any given day—ensuring dry, grippy trail conditions throughout spring, summer, and fall. While occasional mosquitoes make an appearance during warmer months, they rarely interfere with the outdoor experience.
ElevationThe campground sits in the shadow of impressive peaks that define the local skyline. To the east, Pozo Summit rises to 2,635 feet, while the commanding presence of Black Mountain towers at 3,622 feet, creating a dramatic backdrop that reminds visitors of the raw power of the California landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryTurkey Flat reveals the diverse beauty of Los Padres National Forest, where stately oaks provide welcome shade alongside aromatic conifers and hardy chaparral that paint the hillsides in ever-changing hues. The rocky, hard-packed terrain tells the story of millennia of geological forces at work. On crystal-clear days, riders who pause at scenic overlooks are rewarded with sweeping vistas that stretch from the rugged Sierra Mountains to the distant Pacific coastline—a panoramic reminder of California's stunning geographical diversity.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Los Padres National Forest, Turkey Flat occupies a unique geological crossroads where ancient tectonic forces have sculpted a landscape perfectly suited for off-road adventure. The rocky, hard-packed terrain provides ideal riding conditions while supporting a remarkable ecosystem of oak groves, towering conifers, and resilient chaparral. This dramatic topography, punctuated by nearby Pozo Summit (2,635 ft.) and the imposing Black Mountain (3,622 ft.), creates not just challenging trails but breathtaking vistas that showcase the raw beauty of California's central coast ranges.
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Campsite details

Sites SizeSites appear to be open and general-use, but no specific sizes are mentioned.
Sites PrivacySites are open and not secluded, requiring self-sufficient camping.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to trail access are ideal for riders.
Best CampsitesNull

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Campers may stay up to 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping fee covers one vehicle and one tent, trailer, or RV, with additional vehicles requiring a $10 fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are dispersed in an open area with picnic tables; there are no defined loops.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; however, the area may close during the rainy season to protect roads and trails.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability depends on system 'Scan & Pay,' but no specific details are provided for Turkey Flat Campground.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made one day before the scheduled arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Late cancellations or no-shows incur additional penalties, including forfeiting all paid fees for one-night reservations.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Turkey Flat OHV Staging Area is primarily focused on off-highway vehicle (OHV) activities, offering 45 miles of marked and rated trails suitable for riders ranging from beginners to experts. A kids' track is also available for beginner riders. Additionally, visitors can enjoy nearby hiking trails, biking, and fishing opportunities within a 29-mile radius.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within 29 miles of the campground. No specific trails are detailed in the authoritative source.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available within 29 miles of the campground.
Biking
Biking opportunities are available nearby, though no specific trails are mentioned.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fireworks are prohibited. Campfires are allowed in designated areas only.
  • Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 8 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsCampers must bring potable water and be self-sufficient. Sporadic cell service is noted. Rocky terrain and off-road riding areas pose risks; riders are encouraged to travel in pairs and carry first aid kits.
Active alertsSeasonal closures may occur during the rainy season to protect roads and trails.

Weather forecast

62
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Humidity: 40%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 25.7 mph

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are located 20 miles away in Santa Margarita, CA, which has medical facilities, police stations, and fire departments.

Good to know

Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingVisitors are advised to bring garbage bags for trash, following a 'Pack it in, Pack it out' policy. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNull
Common complaintsGeneral lack of amenities such as water, dump stations, and showers. Some reviews mention high noise levels from ATVs.
HostNull

Campground Map

Driving directionsFrom Santa Margarita, CA, head northeast on H St toward Margarita Ave. Turn right onto CA-58 E. Turn left to stay on CA-58 E. Turn right onto Parkhill Rd for 16 miles. Turn left onto Black Mountain Rd/Forest Rte 29S02. Destination will be on the left.
Access involves a combination of paved and unpaved roads. The campground is reached via CA-58 E and Parkhill Rd, which transitions to Black Mountain Rd (Forest Rte 29S02). Seasonal closures during the rainy season may occur to protect roads and trails. Roads are rugged but drivable.
Nearby places
Santa Margarita, CA (20 miles, approximately 30-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Santa Margarita, CA (20 miles away), including groceries, gas, and camping essentials. Campers are urged to bring garbage bags and be self-sufficient.

Camper Reviews

0.0
1 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Turkey Flat Ohv Staging Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate that Turkey Flat OHV Staging Area caters primarily to dirt biking and OHV enthusiasts. Complaints about the lack of water and sewer facilities are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground's proximity to OHV trails and a kids' track for beginner riders is praised.
Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

Users frequently mention the lack of sewer, water, and potable drinking water facilities.
Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring their own water, trash bags, and to practice self-sustainability. Spark arrestors and off-highway vehicle registrations (red stickers) are required. Mosquito repellent is...
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Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Just a place to go dirt bike riding, or camp but no sewer, water, has a portable potty.' - User Review by Susan 'Homegirl slo 77' Asabez.
Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at the campground, though specific amenities related to pets are not detailed.
Based on 1 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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