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Dispersed Camping

Heaton flats

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Heaton Flats is located near the San Gabriel Mountains in California, offering rugged terrain with a mix of rocky paths and forested areas. Temperatures can range from 40°F in the winter to 90°F in the summer. Nearby attractions include the Bridge to Nowhere and the East Fork of the San Gabriel River, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring.

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Location

Heaton flats is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

34.24056049 N
117.76311436 W

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Drive Time

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Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
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    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Heaton flats needs a permit.

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General Info


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1 Review

Reviewed Jul. 29, 2024

Not always allowed

Camping outside esablished campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders on https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles. Currently, camping is allowed for 7 days or less, see here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=78080 The people I saw camping here looked to have been set up somewhat permanently though. I wouldn't feel comfortable setting up a tent here, but it could be an okay rest area at the beginning/end of the hike to Bridge to Nowhere.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Heaton flats by Les R., July 29, 2024
  • Review photo of Heaton flats by Les R., July 29, 2024
  • Review photo of Heaton flats by Les R., July 29, 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Heaton Flats Campground?

Heaton Flats Campground offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. The site does not provide running water, flush toilets, or electrical hookups. Campers should bring all necessary water or be prepared to filter water from natural sources. Pack out all trash as there may not be garbage collection services. Campfire regulations vary based on seasonal fire restrictions, so bring a portable camp stove for cooking. The natural setting compensates for the lack of facilities, offering beautiful scenery and a true wilderness experience.

Where is Heaton Flats Campground located and how do I get there?

Heaton Flats Campground is located in the Angeles National Forest in Southern California. To reach the campground, take Highway 39 north from Azusa into the San Gabriel Mountains. Continue until you reach East Fork Road, then follow it to the Heaton Flats trailhead parking area. The campground is situated along the East Fork of the San Gabriel River, providing a beautiful mountain setting. Four-wheel drive is not required, but the roads can be winding. The site serves as both a destination for primitive camping and a gateway to wilderness hiking trails.

Do I need a permit or reservation for Heaton Flats Campground?

Camping at Heaton Flats requires an Adventure Pass for parking at the trailhead. For overnight stays, you should also obtain a free wilderness permit from the Angeles National Forest office. Camping is allowed for up to 7 days within the forest. Be sure to check the current forest orders and alerts on the Angeles National Forest website before your trip, as camping regulations can change due to fire danger, environmental concerns, or other factors. No advance reservations are needed for the primitive campsites, but space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

What hiking trails are accessible from Heaton Flats Campground?

From Heaton Flats Campground, hikers can access several notable trails in the Angeles National Forest. The most popular route is the Bridge to Nowhere trail, which follows the East Fork of the San Gabriel River to a historic bridge. More challenging options include the Heaton Flats Trail to Iron Mountain and connections to the Pacific Crest Trail. The area offers diverse terrain from riverside paths to steep mountain ascents with significant elevation gains. Trails provide access to swimming holes along the river during warmer months. Always check trail conditions before setting out, as flash floods can affect river crossings and trail integrity.