About CEDAR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND
Overview Cedar Flat Group sites are popular with academic institutions for geology field trips. With no nearby light sources, the night sky is brilliant for star gazing and night photography.Recreation A perfect location for star gazing, geology and hiking.Facilities Three large group camp sites can accommodate between 25 and 50 people. Each has a picnic shelter with table, campfire ring and vault toilet. There is no water at this location nor is there a natural water source. The nearest source for water, food, or fuel is 12 miles away in the town of Big Pine, CA.Natural Features Cedar Flat is in the Inyo National Forest, east of the Owens Valley in the White Mountains. The campsites are at an elevation of 7,300ft. and located in an arid landscape dotted with pinyon and juniper trees, rabbit brush and sage. Nearby Attractions White Mountain Peak is the third highest peak in California at 14,246 feet. Trails in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest lead to the oldest living trees in the world.
How to Get There
From Big Pine go east on Highway 168 APPROXIMATELY 11.5 miles and turn left into the campground entrance. The junction of 168 and White Mt Road (to the BRISTLECONE PINES) is about 1/2 mile beyond the campground entrance. Highway 168 is narrow and steep. RV's and large vehicles should note a section of the road is a single lane with very limited visibility. UPHILL traffic has the right of way, BUT BE prepared to stop and back up to the last wide spot if necessary.
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 CEDAR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND
Heading to CEDAR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND? 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 CEDAR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for CEDAR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273816) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to CEDAR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND?
From Big Pine go east on Highway 168 APPROXIMATELY 11.5 miles and turn left into the campground entrance. The junction of 168 and White Mt Road (to the BRISTLECONE PINES) is about 1/2 mile beyond the campground entrance. Highway 168 is narrow and steep. RV's and large vehicles should note a section of the road is a single lane with very limited visibility. UPHILL traffic has the right of way, BUT …
How do I contact CEDAR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-873-2500.
References & Official Resources
