Navajo Flats Campground

4.48

34 reviews

11156 Red Hill Rd, Santa Margarita, CA

Quick Facts

2,221 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Los Padres National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

2,221 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Los Padres National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

805 434 1996customerservice@pmcparks.com

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What Campers Say

4.48

Recommended

Based on 34 reviews

37 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanfriendly

Some mention

dusty

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

11156 Red Hill Rd, Santa Margarita, CA

Navajo Flats Campground

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.

Best Time to Camp at Navajo Flats Campground

The 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Open during summer; hot dry climate and peak-season use but trails available.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall (e.g., Thanksgiving) described as quiet and enjoyable in reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)

2.0 / 5

Spring brings high insect activity cited by reviewers, reducing enjoyment for some.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Winter rains can cause road and trail closures; access problems noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 to November 1 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, but reservable from January 1 to November 1 annually.
Current Alerts: Seasonal trail and road closures may occur during rainy seasons.

About Navajo Flats 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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground comprises six sites, five with shaded canopy structures, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.

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.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.

Site SizeThe campground includes six campsites, with five featuring shaded canopy structures.

PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly described.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesFor quieter stays, avoid holidays and weekends. Campsite 06 is recommended for families with children due to proximity to the beginner's track.

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.

HikingHiking trails are accessible from the campground, with a variety of marked trails leading to nearby natural features.

FishingFishing opportunities are mentioned as a nearby activity, but specific details about locations or fish species are not provided.

BikingOpportunities for mountain biking are available, particularly within the 29-mile radius of the campground.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is possible, but specific species or viewing sites are not detailed.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include rocky terrain, sporadic cell service, and flying insects during warmer months.

Active AlertsSeasonal trail and road closures may occur during rainy seasons.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed within provided fire rings. Fireworks are prohibited at all times.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 8 AM.

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

Trash & RecyclingThis is a 'Pack it in, Pack it out' facility. Campers are expected to bring garbage bags and manage their own waste.

Water FeaturesNo water bodies are mentioned in the immediate vicinity.

Camp HostNo campground hosts are mentioned in the source materials.

Weather at Navajo Flats Campground

Reviews

4.5

34 reviews

Recommended

Navajo Flats Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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 34 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 34 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 34 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 34 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 34 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...

Based on 34 reviews