Manker Flat Campground

4.27

272 reviews

110 N. Wabash Avenue, Glendora, CA 91741

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$5 - $20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Open Memorial Day we...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$5 - $20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Open Memorial Day we...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Manker Flat Campground

$5.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single campsite is $20 per night; additional vehicles are charged $5 per night. Discounts of 50% are available for Interagency Senior/Access...

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

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USFS

Provider

(626) 335-1251

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What Campers Say

4.27

Satisfactory

Based on 272 reviews

259 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslocationhiking

"User reviews present Manker Flats as a scenic, secluded campground that is well-suited for hiking and other nature-based activities. However, common complaints include noise from inconsiderate campers, maintenance issues with trash and vault toilets, and the presence of bears. The campground's rocky terrain and lack of flat sites have also been noted. While some visitors praise its affordability and proximity to trails, others cite frustrations with the first-come, first-served system and lack of peace during peak seasons."

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Campground Map

110 N. Wabash Avenue, Glendora, CA 91741

Manker Flat Campground

110 N. Wabash Avenue, Glendora, CA 91741

Driving directionsFrom Foothill Blvd. in Claremont, take Mills Ave. until it turns into Mt. Baldy Road. Drive 12 miles north on Mt. Baldy Rd. past Mt. Baldy Village to the campground. Note: Foothill can be reached by taking Mountain Ave. north from the 10 freeway. The last 2.3 miles are steep with switchbacks.

Roads are paved but steep and include switchbacks. Seasonal closures to vehicle traffic occur during winter.

Nearby places

Claremont (12 miles, approximately 25 minutes)

Mt. Baldy Village (2.3 miles, approximately 5 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Snack bar near the campground offers hamburgers and smoothies. Closest grocery and fuel supplies are unavailable in the provided data.

Best Time to Camp at Manker Flat Campground

The mountain's moods shift dramatically with the seasons at Manker Flat. Summer days bring warm sunshine filtering through pine boughs, while early fall paints the forest in golden light—both seasons ideal for camping adventures. When winter arrives, the campground transforms into a frozen wonderland where snow and ice often limit access, creating an exclusive retreat for the most determined cold-weather campers. Spring awakens the forest with cool, crisp air and gentle breezes that carry the scent of new growth, making it a perfect time for those seeking solitude before summer crowds arrive.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is popular: warm days, clear conditions for hiking and camping.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Early fall praised for golden light and peak conditions for hiking and scenery.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Open from Memorial Day weekend (late spring) onward; spring features trails and waterfalls nearby.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Closed seasonally to vehicle traffic; little snow at this elevation; access limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Late spring to early fall (Memorial Day weekend through mid-November).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open Memorial Day weekend through mid-November; closed seasonally to vehicle traffic during winter.
Current Alerts: Currently closed due to Vista Fire.

About Manker Flat Campground

Nestled high in the Angeles National Forest at 6,000 feet, Manker Flat Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. This rustic, first-come, first-served haven features 21 intimate campsites carved into the wilderness, each equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring where stories are shared under starlit skies. While RVs up to 16 feet can navigate these mountain roads, the campground's true charm lies in its simplicity—no hookups, just pure connection with nature. Vault toilets and the essentials are all you'll find here, leaving more room for what matters: direct access to legendary trails that wind toward the mighty Mt. Baldy summit and the cascading San Antonio Falls.

Manker Flats provides a traditional camping experience with 21 sites catering primarily to tent campers and smaller RVs. Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are open year-round, though winter access may be restricted due to snow.

Historical SignificanceThe land around Manker Flat whispers stories of those who came before. Long cherished by Native American peoples who first traversed these mountain paths, the area now cradles pieces of more recent history. Just down the mountain in Mt. Baldy Village, the historic Mt. Baldy Schoolhouse stands as a testament to the hardy souls who made these heights their home. Today's Visitor Center, housed in these historic walls, bridges past and present, offering modern explorers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human connection to these sacred peaks.

Weather and SeasonsThe mountain's moods shift dramatically with the seasons at Manker Flat. Summer days bring warm sunshine filtering through pine boughs, while early fall paints the forest in golden light—both seasons ideal for camping adventures. When winter arrives, the campground transforms into a frozen wonderland where snow and ice often limit access, creating an exclusive retreat for the most determined cold-weather campers. Spring awakens the forest with cool, crisp air and gentle breezes that carry the scent of new growth, making it a perfect time for those seeking solitude before summer crowds arrive.

ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, Manker Flat offers a true mountain refuge far above the valley floor. Here, your lungs work a little harder, but the reward is air so pure it seems to cleanse your soul. The elevation brings a natural air conditioning that provides blessed relief from summer heat below, while creating a landscape where alpine and foothill ecosystems merge in fascinating ways. First-time mountain visitors should pace themselves as they adjust to the altitude, but the slight breathlessness is a small price for the dramatic vistas and cooler temperatures.

Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of towering Incense cedars, stately Ponderosa and Jeffrey pines creates a aromatic canopy above Manker Flat, while sturdy oaks add their ancient wisdom to the forest tapestry. The campground's relatively flat terrain, scattered with weathered granite boulders, tells the geological story of eons past. Big Butch Wash meanders nearby, its seasonal waters providing a soundtrack of mountain music when flowing. Every direction offers a postcard view—whether gazing up at craggy peaks or down into verdant canyons where morning mist dances among the trees.

Geological RegionManker Flat claims its place within the dramatic San Gabriel Mountains, a young and dynamic range that forms the stunning backdrop of the Angeles National Forest. At 6,000 feet, the campground occupies a unique ecological niche where mountain geology meets forest biology. The rocky substrate speaks of ancient tectonic forces that thrust these peaks skyward, while the magnificent stands of Incense cedar, Ponderosa and Jeffrey pines, along with resilient oaks, demonstrate nature's ability to flourish in this elevated realm. This is where the raw power of geological time meets the patient persistence of forest succession, creating a landscape both rugged and remarkably alive.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is open, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Check-out

Check-out times are generally mid-morning for turnover.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people per site.

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly supported, as the campground features individual sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of a single loop next to Big Butch Wash.

Reservation PlatformsFirst-come, first-served basis; no online or advanced reservation system.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Campground tends to fill quickly on weekends and holidays.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made according to standard federal or forest service guidelines; specific details are unavailable.

AccessibilityThe campground does not appear to provide specific accessibility features such as wheelchair-friendly toilets or pathways.

Site SizeThe campsites are described as spacious but rocky, which may require extra preparation for tent setup.

PrivacySites provide fair privacy, with some well-separated from others. However, the lack of natural barriers or trees between sites can result in a shared, open feeling for some campers.

Total Campsites21 campsites

Recommended SitesConsider site #14 for privacy or site #22 if proximity to restrooms is important. Check site flatness before pitching tents.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Manker Flats Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to hiking trails, picnicking, and opportunities to explore nearby landmarks such as the historic Mt. Baldy Schoolhouse. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty and wildlife, and it attracts visitors for both serene and adventurous experiences.

HikingThe campground is adjacent to multiple hiking options. Popular trails include the 11.3-mile Mt. Baldy Bowl and Devil's Backbone loop, which summits at 10,069 feet, and the shorter 1.4-mile round trip to the 75-foot San Antonio Falls. Trails range in difficulty, from casual to challenging routes for avid hikers.

Wildlife viewingWildlife encounters are frequent, particularly with bears. Campers have noted observing deer and smaller animals like squirrels. Visitors should exercise caution and follow bear safety guidelines.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears are commonplace and may rummage through food supplies or coolers. Other hazards include rocky terrain and mosquitoes.

Active AlertsCurrently closed due to Vista Fire.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Food Storage RequiredBear boxes are provided for food storage to reduce scent and deter bears.

Fire PolicyFire rings are available at each site, but fire restrictions may prohibit their use during high fire alert seasons.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not formally established; however, some reviews mention noise issues during late-night hours.

Emergency ServicesSan Gabriel Mountains National Monument Information Center at 110 N. Wabash Avenue, Glendora, CA 91741. Phone: (626) 335-1251. Closest hospital and police services are unavailable in the provided data.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are available, but user reviews frequently note overflowing bins and scattered debris, particularly during busy weekends.

Water FeaturesSan Antonio Falls is approximately 0.6 miles from the campground and offers scenic water views. Stream water is available but must be treated before use.

Camp HostNo on-site hosts available; maintenance and checks are performed periodically by rangers.

Weather at Manker Flat Campground

Reviews

4.3

272 reviews

Satisfactory

Manker Flat Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews present Manker Flats as a scenic, secluded campground that is well-suited for hiking and other nature-based activities. However, common complaints include noise from inconsiderate campers, maintenance issues with trash and vault toilets, and the presence of bears. The campground's rocky terrain and lack of flat sites have also been noted. While some visitors praise its affordability and proximity to trails, others cite frustrations with the first-come, first-served system and lack of peace during peak seasons.

Review Summaries

Based on 272 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers highlight the campground's affordability and proximity to excellent hiking trails such as the San Antonio Falls and Mt. Baldy summit routes. Families appreciate the picnic tables, fire...

Based on 272 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from other campers, poorly maintained vault toilets, trash overflow, and rocky campsites top the list of complaints. The campground's lack of bear-proof trash cans and boxes also poses safety...

Based on 272 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early, ideally on a weekday, to secure a spot. Bring leveling equipment for tents due to rocky terrain. Plan for colder temperatures at night, even in warmer months. Secure all food and...

Based on 272 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer and early fall are the most popular seasons, offering clear conditions for hiking and camping. Winter, while scenic, brings challenges such as freezing temperatures and restricted access....

Based on 272 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'I love this campground; it’s secluded from town and perfect for exploring Mt. Baldy.' - Brian Prado 2. 'Bears are frequent visitors here. We had a bear rummaging through a cooler left by a former...

Based on 272 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #14 is noted for its privacy, though its proximity to neighboring sites can lead to disputes. Sites #8 and #11 are less recommended due to uneven terrain. Several users mention that site #22...

Based on 272 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews mention accessibility features. However, the rocky terrain and basic amenities suggest the campground may not be easily navigable for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 272 reviews