Big Flat

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 17, 2025 and operates through October 20, 2025. First-come, first-served, no reservations.

About

Big Flat Campground is a small, quiet first-come, first-served campground tucked away in the Smith River National Recreation Area, bordered by Hurdygurdy Creek. Located far from towns and highways along South Fork Road, it provides an ideal remote getaway for those seeking solitude in the forest. The campground is semi-open with some sites shaded by trees while others offer partial shade, with shrubs and grass filling in between sites. The campground offers basic amenities including vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. No potable water is available, so campers must bring their own. While there is no direct river access from the campground, several excellent South Fork swimming and fishing access points are within a half mile. Hurdygurdy Creek can be accessed from the campground and at several points along the nearby All Access Trail. The campground can accommodate trailers up to 32 feet. Pets on leashes are permitted, and there is a 14-day occupancy limit. The remote location and quiet atmosphere make Big Flat an excellent choice for campers looking to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of the Six Rivers National Forest.

Directions

From the Smith River National Recreation Area visitor center, turn right onto Highway 199 and drive 7.2 miles west. Turn left onto South Fork Road (County Road 427), also signed for Howland Hill Scenic Drive, Stout Grove, and Myrtle Beach. Go 0.5 miles and bear left at the Y intersection to stay on South Fork Road. Continue for 14 miles and turn left on County Road 405. Campground entrance is 0.25 miles on the left.

Nearby Campgrounds