Messenger Flats Campground

3.78

20 reviews

12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road San Fernando, CA 91342

Quick Facts

5,500 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Los Angeles Gateway District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,500 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Los Angeles Gateway District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Messenger Flats Campground

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping requires an Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass. Interagency Senior and Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single...

Standard Site Fee$5.00

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

(818) 899-1900

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What Campers Say

3.78

Mixed Reviews

Based on 20 reviews

17 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanwell-maintained

"User reviews highlight the campground's accessibility for hikers and its cleanliness. The campground is described as quiet and isolated, with good cell coverage. However, visitors note wind conditions, the lack of water, and the aftermath of the 2009 Station Fire as challenges."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road San Fernando, CA 91342

Messenger Flats Campground

12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road San Fernando, CA 91342

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 210 in La Canada exit at Angeles Crest Hwy (Hwy. 2) and drive north for 9 miles. Turn left onto the Angeles Forest Hwy (County Rd. N3) and drive about 12 miles to Mill Creek Summit. Turn left on Santa Clara Divide Rd. and continue 12 miles to the campground.

Access is very good. Most of the road is paved due to the decommissioned cold war era missile installation on nearby peaks. User reviews confirm even low-clearance RVs can reach the site. However, some sections are reported as narrow and challenging, requiring caution.

Nearby places

San Fernando (about 30 miles), La Canada Flintridge (approximately 33 miles), Los Angeles (approx. 45 miles).

Nearby supplies

Adventure Passes are available at gas stations, 7-Eleven stores, and Big 5 Sporting Goods. Supplies and groceries likely available in nearest towns such as San Fernando or La Canada Flintridge.

Best Time to Camp at Messenger Flats Campground

Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations at Messenger Flats, where crisp winter mornings can dust the landscape with snow and temperatures dip to a bracing 29°F. As seasons turn, the mountain air warms to pleasant summer highs of 86°F, creating perfect conditions for hiking and stargazing. The campground's signature evening winds sweep through the pines, carrying the scent of wilderness and reminding visitors of nature's constant presence. Throughout the year, the dry mountain climate offers clear skies ideal for outdoor adventures, though winter visitors should prepare for potential snowfall during colder spells.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Open in summer but visitors note flies, high winds and no water as drawbacks.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Likely pleasant and quiet in fall; fewer flies noted in off-season but explicit data limited.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring regrowth likely attractive, but water sources often dry and flies can appear.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round with possible snow and cold mornings; no winter services available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not specified. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Site is open year-round.
Current Alerts: Extreme fire restrictions may be enforced periodically, restricting campfires and cooking systems.

About Messenger Flats Campground

Perched at 5,500 feet in the Angeles National Forest, Messenger Flats Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience for those seeking solitude and adventure. This hike-in sanctuary features 10 intimate campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings where stories are shared under starlit skies. Two horse corrals welcome equestrian adventurers, while vault toilets provide essential facilities. As a true backcountry destination, no water is available on-site, inviting visitors to embrace self-sufficiency and pack in all necessary supplies for their mountain retreat.

The campground caters to a range of campers, including hikers, equestrians, and backpackers, and is most suitable for those seeking a rustic experience.

Historical SignificanceMessenger Flats tells a compelling story of resilience and renewal. Hidden nearby are fascinating remnants of Cold War-era missile installations, silent witnesses to a time when these mountains played a role in national defense. The landscape itself bears testament to nature's power and recovery, as the forest continues its remarkable regeneration following the devastating 2009 Station Fire. Each new growth represents hope and the enduring strength of the wilderness.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations at Messenger Flats, where crisp winter mornings can dust the landscape with snow and temperatures dip to a bracing 29°F. As seasons turn, the mountain air warms to pleasant summer highs of 86°F, creating perfect conditions for hiking and stargazing. The campground's signature evening winds sweep through the pines, carrying the scent of wilderness and reminding visitors of nature's constant presence. Throughout the year, the dry mountain climate offers clear skies ideal for outdoor adventures, though winter visitors should prepare for potential snowfall during colder spells.

ElevationAt 5,500 feet above sea level, Messenger Flats provides a refreshing mountain escape where the air is crisp and clean. This elevation brings cooler temperatures year-round, offering relief from valley heat in summer and creating a winter wonderland when snow graces the peaks. The altitude enhances every sunset and sunrise, painting the sky in brilliant colors that seem closer and more vivid than anywhere below.

Natural Features and SceneryMessenger Flats showcases nature's remarkable ability to heal and flourish. While the 2009 Station Fire left its mark, today's visitors witness an inspiring transformation as young trees reach skyward and native plants reclaim the mountainsides. Mature survivors provide welcome shade and whisper stories of the forest that was and will be again. The legendary Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby, inviting exploration, while Deer Spring offers a glimpse of the area's natural water sources. This recovering woodland creates a unique landscape where visitors can observe ecological succession in action, making each visit a chance to witness the forest's continuing renaissance.

Geological RegionNestled within the rugged terrain of the Angeles National Forest, Messenger Flats occupies a special niche at 5,500 feet where mountain ecology thrives. This hike-in haven sits amid recovering woodlands that tell the story of fire and rebirth across Southern California's dramatic landscape. The campground's position near the Pacific Crest Trail places it at the crossroads of wilderness adventure, where the geological forces that shaped these mountains meet the trails that connect Mexico to Canada. Here, visitors experience firsthand the resilient ecosystem of the San Gabriel Mountains, where granite peaks, recovering forests, and endless skies create an unforgettable backcountry experience.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not specified

Check-out

Not specified

Stay Limit

Not specified

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not specified

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground has a parking area surrounded by a low fence, requiring car campers to hike to their campsites. Sites are dispersed around the area.

Reservation PlatformsAdventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass required; available at gas stations, 7-Elevens, and Big 5 Sporting Goods locations.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are first-come, first-served. No reservations or holding of campsites allowed.

Cancellation PolicyNot specified

AccessibilityThe campground appears to be primarily designed for hike-in and equestrian use, with accessibility features such as horse corrals. Specific ADA-compliant facilities are not mentioned.

Site SizeStandard-sized campsites.

PrivacySites offer a fair degree of privacy due to the low visitor volume, but the layout favors hikers more than car camping.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesConsider sites near mature trees for shade and proximity to trails.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Messenger Flats Campground offers several outdoor activities, emphasizing hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The campground's close proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) enhances its appeal for hiking enthusiasts. It is also equipped with two horse corrals, making it suitable for equestrian activities.

HikingHiking opportunities include direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail, described as being 'just a short walk' from the campground entrance. Other nearby trails include the Trail Canyon and Mendenhall Ridge routes.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWindy conditions and lack of water are significant concerns. Flies can be problematic during afternoons. Wildlife interactions are possible, including bears and potentially venomous spiders such as black widows.

Active AlertsExtreme fire restrictions may be enforced periodically, restricting campfires and cooking systems.

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

Fire PolicyFire use restrictions are in place during extreme or critical conditions. Portable cooking systems are also prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not specified

Emergency ServicesLos Angeles Gateway District Office: 12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road San Fernando, CA 91342; Phone: (818) 899-1900. Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed on federal holidays).

Trash & RecyclingNo specific trash and recycling facilities are mentioned. Visitors are advised to pack out their trash.

Water FeaturesNo water bodies are directly accessible. Deer Spring is nearby but often dry.

Camp HostNot specified

Weather at Messenger Flats Campground

Reviews

3.8

20 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Messenger Flats Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's accessibility for hikers and its cleanliness. The campground is described as quiet and isolated, with good cell coverage. However, visitors note wind conditions, the lack of water, and the aftermath of the 2009 Station Fire as challenges.

Review Summaries

Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean and well-maintained vault toilets, good cell phone coverage, and accessibility to the Pacific Crest Trail. One user stated, 'If my low-clearance RV can make it, any...

Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints involve the lack of water, with one user mentioning, 'Deer Spring was dry when I visited.' Flies, particularly in the afternoon, and wind conditions were also noted as issues.

Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water, as there are no water facilities. Campers are also advised to prepare for windy conditions and to bring insect repellent for flies.

Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is described as quiet during the off-season, with one user noting, 'It's so quiet in February that I found myself woken up by an owl hooting.' However, high winds and flies can be more...

Based on 20 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The vault toilets were remarkably clean and even smelled good.' 2. 'Good cell coverage. Enjoy the advantages of being isolated without the disadvantages of being isolated.' 3. 'Bring enough...

Based on 20 reviews