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Big Flat Campground Introduce

Big Flat Campground offers a serene and secluded camping experience nestled along the banks of the Salmon River in Forks of Salmon, California. This charming campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the breathtaking Trinity Alps or those planning to backpack to Caribou Lakes. With its remote location accessible via a long, winding road from Highway 3, Big Flat Campground provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Visitors will find Big Flat Campground equipped with basic amenities including pit toilets, but there is no running water available on-site, so guests are encouraged to bring their own. The campground remains open seasonally, and while it may technically be closed during certain times of the year, reviews indicate that a friendly campground host is often present to assist visitors.

Surrounded by pristine nature, Big Flat Campground offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The area is known for its stunning scenery, including the nearby Josephine Lake, which has been described as one of the most scenic places in the lower 48 states. Deer are frequently spotted in the surrounding area, adding to the charm of this natural retreat.

While the long and rough drive-in road may deter some visitors, those who make the journey often find it to be part of the adventure. The campground's remote location ensures that it is rarely crowded, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude in nature.

  • Remote Location: Accessible via a long, winding road; perfect for those seeking peace and quiet
  • Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of the Trinity Alps and proximity to Josephine Lake
  • Amenities: Pit toilets available; no running water on-site
  • Wildlife: Frequent sightings of deer and other wildlife
  • Activities: Hiking, fishing, backpacking, and exploring scenic trails
  • Suitability: Ideal for self-contained campers and nature enthusiasts

Big Flat Campground is a hidden gem for those looking to experience the beauty of California's Sierra Nevada region without the crowds. Whether you're traveling through the Trinity Alps or planning a backpacking trip, Big Flat offers a unique and memorable camping experience.

Customer Feedback: Reviewers highlight the campground's tranquility, scenic surroundings, and cleanliness. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature. One visitor described it as "a fantastic campground" that feels like a true hidden gem, while another noted that the area is "stunningly beautiful" and perfect for those looking to escape into nature.

Location

Customer Reviews

4.0
8 reviews
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Max Stanton
Apr 09, 2020

Rarely ever crowded due to the very long and rough road in from Highway 3, this is a fantastic campground whether you're headed north through the Trinity's, or if you're backpacking out to the Caribou Lakes. Recently came here in fall, when the campground was technically closed, and had a wonderful night. Still a few people about and there was a campground host, never checked to see if the facilities were open. Right on the river, the drive in is gorgeous, but it'll be very long and slow if you're not in a truck or SUV. There isn't anywhere a car can't make it, but it's very rough. Plan for at least 2 hours.

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scrabbleking1965
Jun 22, 2022

Snowed a few inches May 19th 2021! Bring your own water, didn't see a single piece of trash on the ground, nice pit toilets, lots of deer.....Josephine Lake is the most scenic place I can recall having visited inside the lower 48 states.

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Troy Russell
Aug 11, 2019

Nice campground to get everything started before you head to Caribou basin and lakes there is a restroom at the trailhead ample parking quite a few Camp spots the drive out Coffee Creek Road to big flat Campground is quite a drive but it's just a beautiful drive leaving there and driving back out after the hike. Bring your own water because I did not see water available there we arrived after dark and there was 10 to 15 Vehicles parked in the parking lot but was still able to find a camp spot there's also a lot of shade so when you park and you get back your car is not cooking hot inside

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gary long
Jul 28, 2024

Very quiet. Nice setting next to coffee creek. Very quiet with few bugs. A little rough to drive into and wouldn't recommend taking a car.

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Scott Shumway
Sep 23, 2018

Beautiful place with quite a few picnic tables. Although quite remote, it’s a popular place.