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Map showing campground location near Acton, California
Camper submitted image from Messenger Flats Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED AS OF 2023View 1 Photo
Map showing campground location near Acton, California

Messenger Flats Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED AS OF 2023

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Sit-down pit toilets, picnic tables at each site, and open sightlines toward the Channel Islands on clear days — Messenger Flats has the bones of a functional Angeles National Forest stopover. It sits at elevation along the PCT corridor, which means PCT thru-hikers have historically used it as an overnight stop even during periods when the surrounding forest was closed to general camping due to fire damage. That closure is ongoing as of 2023, so confirm current status with the US Forest Service before planning a visit. Lightning Point Group Campground lies 0.7 miles southeast for those scouting alternatives in the area. Pets are permitted. When it reopens, it's worth adding to the itinerary.

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Map & DirectionsMessenger Flats Campground is located in California near Acton

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From 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 9 miles to the campground.

Coordinates

34.37994344 N
118.1894504 W

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Connectivity

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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Pets

Drive Time

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Messenger Flats Campground

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5.0

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1 Review

Reviewed May. 24, 2017

Currently closed (2017)

We stayed at Messenger Flats while hiking the PCT, only because you can camp anywhere within 20 ft and we wound up arriving at camp well past dark. We were surprised to find that the campground was closed but had clearly been used by hikers for the past season. We met a ranger the following day at a water cache not too far from the campground, and he told us that the entire national forest (except for the trail) was closed to camping due to fire damage from previous years.

The campground was a nice place to stop. When in full service, it has pit toilets, and each site has a picnic table. There's beautiful views of the ocean on clear days, we could even see the Channel Islands and the LA lights once the sun set hiking in.

I highly recommend staying here once it reopens. It's a great, pretty secluded campsite.

Month of VisitMay
  • Our completely empty campsite
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  • Review photo of Messenger Flats Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED AS OF 2023 by Alexa S., May 24, 2017
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Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I do near Messenger Flats Campground?

The area around Messenger Flats Campground offers excellent hiking opportunities, particularly for those on the Pacific Crest Trail which passes nearby. The surrounding Angeles National Forest provides trails for day hiking and backpacking with scenic views of the mountains. Wildlife observation, stargazing, and nature photography are popular activities due to the relatively remote location. Mountain biking on designated trails and bird watching are also possible in the region. Always check trail conditions and fire restrictions before planning activities.

How do I make reservations for Messenger Flats Campground?

Messenger Flats Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis when open, with no formal reservation system. However, the campground is temporarily closed for regular camping. For the most current status and reopening information, contact the Angeles National Forest Service office directly. PCT hikers should check with the Pacific Crest Trail Association regarding access and current policies for trail users, as different rules may apply for through-hikers.

What amenities are available at Messenger Flats Campground?

Messenger Flats Campground offers basic amenities for wilderness camping. The site provides designated camping spots with some cleared areas. While the campground has been temporarily closed to regular visitors, PCT hikers have historically used the area. The campground typically does not offer advanced facilities like showers or electrical hookups. Visitors should be prepared to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste, as this is a more primitive camping experience in the Angeles National Forest.

What is the best time of year to visit Messenger Flats Campground?

Spring and early summer (April through June) are typically ideal for visiting Messenger Flats Campground, when PCT hikers commonly pass through. The weather is generally moderate with wildflowers potentially in bloom. Fall can also be pleasant with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Summer months may be very hot in this high desert environment, while winter can bring cold temperatures and possible snow at this elevation. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out, as seasonal closures may affect access.

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