Mill Flat Campground
04 reviews35860 East Kings Canyon Road, Dunlap, CA 93621
Mill Flat Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Mill Flat Campground has no fees; it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Giant Sequoia National Monument, Mill Flat Campground offers an intimate escape with just five secluded campsites perched at 1,100 feet along the rushing waters of the Kings Wild and Scenic River. Adventure seekers flock here for the thrilling whitewater rafting opportunities, where the river churns through exhilarating Class III rapids that challenge paddlers while rewarding them with stunning canyon views. This hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude and raw natural beauty far from the crowds.
Mill Flat Campground is a primitive campsite with no fees, offering first-come, first-served access. It is unsuitable for trailers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum at Mill Flat, where crisp winter days hover between 50-60°F, perfect for peaceful riverside hikes and cozy campfire evenings. As summer arrives, the mercury climbs toward 100°F during peak weeks, transforming the Kings River into an irresistible oasis for cooling off. The dramatic temperature swings between day and night create magical mornings shrouded in mist and star-filled evenings that showcase the Milky Way. With predominantly dry conditions year-round, you can count on clear skies for your outdoor adventures.
ElevationAt 1,100 feet above sea level, Mill Flat sits in the sweet spot where mountain air meets river canyon ambiance, creating a unique microclimate that supports diverse wildlife and lush riparian vegetation while remaining accessible year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground embraces visitors with a stunning tapestry of natural wonders, where the melodic Kings River serves as both soundtrack and centerpiece to your wilderness experience. Towering canyon walls frame the intimate riverside setting, while the surrounding Giant Sequoia National Monument beckons with its network of trails leading to ancient groves and hidden waterfalls. The vibrant riverine ecosystem creates a living gallery where kingfishers dive for fish, deer come to drink at twilight, and wildflowers paint the banks in seasonal splashes of color.
Geological RegionMill Flat Campground occupies a special niche within the greater Giant Sequoia National Monument, where millennia of geological forces have carved a dramatic river canyon at 1,100 feet elevation. Here, the Kings Wild and Scenic River has sculpted smooth granite boulders and deep pools, creating a dynamic landscape that tells the story of water's patient but powerful influence on the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features have not been listed or described for Mill Flat Campground.
Sites SizeNo specific information on campsite sizes is provided.
Sites PrivacyNo details about campsite privacy are available.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific sites highlighted as best, but users mention the proximity to the river as a major advantage.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No information provided about a maximum stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific limits mentioned in authoritative sources.
Groups
No information on group sites is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of five individual sites, with facilities such as picnic tables and restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonNo specific seasonal closure details provided; it appears to be open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as the site is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityEntirely first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyThis is a first-come, first-served site, so no reservation cancellations apply.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Mill Flat Campground provides recreational opportunities like fishing in the Kings Wild and Scenic River and OHV camping. Hiking, horseback riding, and biking are available on trails within Giant Sequoia National Monument outside wilderness areas. Rafting is popular, with up to Class III rapids in the river.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within Giant Sequoia National Monument. These trails are open to hikers, horses, and bikes in areas outside wilderness zones.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Kings Wild and Scenic River, although no specific details on fish species or fishing quality are provided.Biking
Biking is permitted on trails within Giant Sequoia National Monument, except in wilderness areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are not mentioned for Mill Flat Campground.Water Sports
The river offers rafting with up to Class III rapids, but other non-motorized water sports are not specified.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves require a campfire permit. Fire restrictions may be enforced due to weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are present, requiring special food storage protocols. River features Class III rapids and can be dangerous without proper precautions.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.6 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
Emergency Services
Hume Lake Ranger District Office (35860 East Kings Canyon Road, Dunlap, CA 93621) serves as the closest emergency point. Phone: 559-338-2251.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly on the Kings Wild and Scenic River, which is popular for fishing, rafting, and swimming.
Common complaintsOvercrowding during peak times, including large groups misusing sites; noise from generators and music; littering; and unsafe behaviors such as swimming in the river without life jackets.
Campground Map
35860 East Kings Canyon Road, Dunlap, CA 93621
Driving directionsFrom Fresno, go 47 miles east on CA 180, Piedra Road, 17 miles on Trimmer Springs Road (Forest Road 11S12), cross the river to the south, then go east on Davis Road (Forest Road 12S01).
The road to the campground is unsuitable for trailers. Some user reviews suggest it is listed as 4WD-only on certain platforms, but it is navigable by 2WD cars if driven carefully.Nearby places
Fresno (approximately 47 miles, about 1.5 hours) and Dunlap (exact distance not specified).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely in the town of Dunlap or Fresno, but no specific details on groceries, fuel, or camping supplies are provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Mill Flat Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Mill Flat Campground highlight contrasting experiences. Some appreciate its natural beauty and free camping, while others criticize overcrowding and misuse of the area.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praise the scenic river access, free camping, and the suitability of the campground for families. Hanna B. mentions, 'I absolutely love this place. My go-to camp spot. The water is so...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Overcrowding and misuse of the area are significant concerns. Di Huang notes instances of trash, loud music, ground fires in pristine sandy areas, and unregulated camping behavior, stating,...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure a spot and being prepared for a lack of potable water and potential overcrowding during peak times.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer receives the most positive reviews due to its refreshing river access and opportunities for hiking, while some complaints about overcrowding and misuse are more prevalent during this time.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
Notable quotes from users include: 'Great campground. The road here is listed as 4WD, but can easily be driven by 2WD cars if you're not a speed demon,' says Noah Nedderman. Hanna B. highlights the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific concerns about overcrowding and misuse are mentioned for individual campsites. Di Huang describes, 'One family had so many people that one site was dedicated just to food. The other spots...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features and experiences are not explicitly described in user reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025