Indian Flats Campground
Currently closed for Arroyo Toad seasonal monitoring. The campground closes each year from approximately April 1 through late July to protect the federally endangered Arroyo Toad during breeding season. Tentative operating season is July 30 through March 31. First-come, first-served only.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Extreme Heat Closure October 2nd-8th 2026
To provide for public safety, going into or being upon the San Diego River Gorge/Cedar Creek Falls Closure Area is prohibited within the Palomar Ranger District of the Cleveland National Forest. This Order is effective from October 02, 2026, through October 08, 2026.
Dispersed Camping and Stay Limits Prohibition
Camping outside of a Forest Service developed campground is now limited to no more than 14 days in a calendar year. As well as camping inside of a Forest Service developed campground for no more than 14 days in a calendar year.
About
Atáxam Mámta'ash Campground, formerly known as Indian Flats, is a small primitive campground in the Palomar Ranger District of Cleveland National Forest. The name was changed to honor the Indigenous descendants of the land, with Atáxam Mámta'ash meaning "People's Flat" in the native language. The campground sits at approximately 3,400 feet elevation in the chaparral and oak woodland terrain of San Diego County's backcountry. The 17 sites accommodate tents and small vehicles up to 15 feet in length. This is a dry campground with no potable water; campers must bring all water or resupply at the Warner Springs Gas Station. Three vault toilets serve the campground. The main draw is direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail, making this a strategic overnight stop for northbound and southbound thru-hikers. The campground closes annually from April 1 through late July for Arroyo Toad breeding season protection. This federally endangered amphibian inhabits the seasonal creek drainages in the area. Outside the closure period, the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis at $12 per night.
Directions
From Warner Springs, drive 1.5 miles northwest on Highway 79 to Lost Valley Road (also known as Indian Flats Road). Turn onto Lost Valley Road and follow this narrow, winding paved road 6.5 miles north to the campground entrance.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $12 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 15ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 15ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (858) 673-6180 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!