SUMMER SALE 50% off The Dyrt PRO — just $2.49/moGet now
SALE: PRO just $2.49/mo
The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Chris Flat — Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest Headquarters

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Situated within Toiyabe National Forest along US Highway 395, Chris Flat is a loop campground with 10 sites managed by the US Forest Service at $28 per night. The Walker River runs directly behind the campground, though river access is described as tricky. Noise from the highway carries into the evening, which is worth weighing against the convenience for travelers passing through. Water stations are distributed around the loop, and wood is available for purchase at the site. No bear lockers are on-site, so a scent-proof food storage container is essential. Bootleg Campground sits a short distance north and may suit campers who want a quieter alternative. Shade and wind protection are minimal, so a sturdy tent matters here.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Pacific Coast Road Trip

19 Day Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Road Trip Segment: San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

San Francisco to Santa Barbara: 4 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Map & DirectionsChris Flat is located in California near Coleville

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

1. From Highway 395 south in Bridgeport, drive approximately 20 miles. 2. Campground is on right hand side of highway.

Coordinates

38.3943 N
119.4562 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 7/1/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 7/1/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

California Contest

Enter to Win

Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Chris Flat

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

34%
33%
33%
0%
0%

4.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

A convenient overnight stop with basic amenities and river access, though campers consistently noted highway noise from adjacent Highway 395. The campground offers both tent and RV sites with water access, but limited restroom facilities and minimal natural cover.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Jul. 21, 2021

Last minute stay.

Was looking for a place to stay the night on a trip north. This place was a convenient place for a nights rest. A little noisy with Hwy395 so close but it works. River is very close. Not sure if it would be a destination spot but definitely worth a nights stay when you’re tired and need a nice place to stay.

Site3
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 17, 2020

Close to the highway with minimal amenities

Stayed here on the way down to Bodie. We were at Markleeville the night before, spending some time fishing the local waters.

Chris flat is easy to access but literally backs onto the freeway. There is traffic going into the night so if that’s going to bother you then choose a different spot. Bootleg is about 5 minutes away.

There was only 1 toilet open on my visit. There are 10 sites in total and only about half were occupied. We were the only tent campers there. Everyone else was in an RV.

Water stations are dotted around the campground. Try to choose a site close to one if you can. There are fire rings at each site and wood is available to purchase.

Minimal cover from sun and wind so make sure you have a good tent.

There are NO bear lockers here. So come prepared. The guidance at the campsite was conflicting on how to beat mitigate food foraging from bears but the best thing would be a scent proof box.

Overall not the greatest campground but ok for an overnight stay for multi day journeys.

The Walker river is behind the campground. Access is a little tricky so be careful. Lots of deep holes but difficult waters to fish and a brisk wind coming down the mountain channeled by the valley.

Reviewed Apr. 23, 2020

Great small campground right on the river

Campground is setup in a loop. Pay at the post upon entry - fill out the reservation envelope and put your nightly fee into the envelope.

There are spots for tent camping and even or truck spots with a larger parking space.

This is a seasonal campground and will be closed during the winter months.

Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fishing available at Chris Flat Campground in Coleville?

Yes, fishing is available at Chris Flat Campground. The campground is situated very close to a river, providing convenient access for fishing enthusiasts. The river accessibility makes it a good stopping point for those interested in fishing the local waters. While staying at Chris Flat, you can easily incorporate fishing into your camping experience without traveling far from your campsite.

Where is Chris Flat Campground located within Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest?

Chris Flat Campground is located within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest with easy access from Highway 395. The campground actually backs onto this highway, making it very accessible for travelers. It's situated near Coleville, California, and is positioned close to a river. Its location makes it a convenient stopover for those traveling north or south through the region or for visitors heading to nearby attractions like Bodie.

What amenities are available at Chris Flat Campground?

Chris Flat Campground offers basic amenities for campers. The campground is arranged in a loop layout with designated camping spots. Amenities include parking spaces for vehicles, access to the nearby river, and a self-registration system at the entrance post where you fill out an envelope and submit your nightly fee. This is a seasonal campground that closes during winter months. While the campground provides essential facilities, it's relatively simple, making it ideal for campers who prefer a more rustic experience.

Can I set up a tent at Chris Flat Campground in Coleville, California?

Yes, Chris Flat Campground accommodates tent camping with dedicated spots specifically designed for tents. The campground features both tent camping areas and larger parking spaces for trucks or RVs. When arriving, simply fill out the reservation envelope at the entrance post, include your fee, and select an appropriate tent site. Be aware that the campground's proximity to Highway 395 means there may be traffic noise, which could be a consideration for tent campers who prefer quieter settings.

Keep Exploring