Cibbets Flat Campground
Open — Open year-round, first-come, first-served. No advance reservations available. Adventure Pass required in addition to camping fees.
Forest Truck Trail and Road Closures
Cedar Spur Road has been closed due to inclement weather. For additional updated conditions, visit Forest Truck Trail and Road Closures.
Prescribed Fires Begin on the Cleveland
The Cleveland National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this fall & winter. Work will continue through the spring as weather conditions allow.
Harmful Algal Bloom Caution - Cedar Creek Falls
Caution – Harmful Algae may be present at Cedar Creek Falls Pool.
Water Unavailable at Penny Pines Trailhead Spigot
Attention Hikers: There is currently NO WATER available at the Penny Pines Trailhead. The water spigot pump is broken and there is no estimated time of repair at this time. Be prepared to bring or seek out alternative water sources.
Airport Fire Burned Area Closure
The Cleveland NF has closed the Airport Fire burned area perimeter on the Trabuco Ranger District of the Cleveland National Forest. This closure prohibits going into or being upon any National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the boundaries of the closure.
Camping Stay Limits
This order prohibits extended camping in developed campgrounds, undeveloped areas, and maximum annual camping durations.
Cedar Creek Falls Forest Orders
Forest Order No. 02-23-02 closes the cliffs surrounding the falls, 02-23-03 requires visitors to have a permit to access the falls, 02-23-04 prohibits alcohol along the entirety of the trail system.
About
Located in the Cleveland National Forest approximately 60 miles east of San Diego, Cibbets Flat Campground offers a rustic camping experience with historical roots dating back to the 1930s when it was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The campground features 24 single campsites and 1 double site, all shaded by mature oak trees along seasonal creeks. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Sites accommodate vehicles up to 27 feet in length. Basic amenities include potable water and vault toilets. Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. An Adventure Pass is required in addition to the overnight camping fee. The setting provides a relaxed atmosphere for campers looking to escape urban areas, with opportunities for day hiking and picnicking. Some sites, particularly 19-22, require a short walk from the parking area and offer enhanced privacy. The campground experiences light usage and maintains a rustic, undeveloped character consistent with its historical origins.
Directions
From Pine Valley, CA, take Interstate 8 east to the Buckman Springs Road exit. Head south on Buckman Springs Road for approximately 10 miles, then turn right onto Kitchen Creek Road. Continue for about 4 miles to reach the campground entrance.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 - $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 27ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 27ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (858) 673-6180 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Cibbets Flat Campground | |
| View on Recreation.gov |
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