About JACKSON FLATS
Overview Jackson Flats is a group camping facility located next to beautiful Grassy Hollow Visitor Center, which holds numerous nature programs, hikes and activities on Saturdays during the summer. The peaceful setting, in the Angeles National Forest, is a short drive northeast of the bustling Los Angeles metropolitan area.Recreation Campers can enjoy hiking, biking and relaxing in the shade. A few short trails loop around the campground and a connector trail leads to the Pacific Crest Trail. The trail stretches from Mexico through California, Oregon and Washington. Additionally, the Angeles National Forest boasts 557 miles of hiking and equestrian trails. All trails, excluding the Pacific Crest Trail, allow mountain biking as well.Facilities Each tent-only site is located about 600 feet from the centrally-located parking area near the campground entrance. Campers may drive into the campsites only to unload/load their gear to their site. Vehicles may not park in campsites.Each site is equipped with large picnic tables, a campfire circle, grills and bear-proof food storage lockers. Potable water is available at all campsites. Natural Features At an elevation 7,500 feet, Jackson Flats sits in grassy spaces among groves of pine and fir trees, with average summer daytime temperatures in the low 80s. Nights are cool. In Angeles National Forest, vegetation ranges from chaparral and oak at lower elevations to pine forests at higher altitudes. Elevations range from 1,200 to 10,000 feet. The endangered California condor inhabits the forest. The Least Bells vireo and the Southwestern Willow flycatcher are two migratory birds that visitors enjoy spotting in the area. Other local inhabitants include the Arroyo toad, mountain yellow-legged frog, the mountain lion and the two-striped garter snake. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (760) 316-7828. Nearby Attractions The Angeles Crest Highway, part of California State Route 2, is a scenic byway that meande
How to Get There
From Wrightwood, turn left onto CA-2 W/Angeles Crest Highway and go 6.1 miles. Look for signs and turn right. Drive 1.2 miles past Grassy Hollow Visitor Center and into the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to JACKSON FLATS
Heading to JACKSON FLATS? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for JACKSON FLATS?
No central reservation system listed for JACKSON FLATS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233732) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to JACKSON FLATS?
From Wrightwood, turn left onto CA-2 W/Angeles Crest Highway and go 6.1 miles. Look for signs and turn right. Drive 1.2 miles past Grassy Hollow Visitor Center and into the campground.
How do I contact JACKSON FLATS?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-249-3526 or email: campgrounds@mthigh.com.
References & Official Resources
