Messenger Flats Campground
Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Winter access may be limited due to snow on Santa Clara Divide Road. Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass required for day use, plus $5 per night camping fee.
Eaton Fire Area Closure
In effort to protect the public and to facilitate natural recovery of the resources affected by the Eaton Fire, this closure extends the Eaton Fire Area Closure through December 31, 2027.
Fire Danger Level Downgraded to "High"
The fire danger level for the Angeles National Forest has been lowered from “Very High” to “High”. Despite the change, there are no new fire restrictions.What does this mean to you?
Be Prepared for Winter Weather
Recent storms have brought winter weather to the Angeles National Forest! From the foothills to elevations reaching over 10,000 feet, visitors can encounter a variety of conditions in the mountains.
Forest Order No. 05-01-25-13, Camping Equipment Prohibition
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. This Order is effective from August 15, 2025, through August 1, 2027.
Bridge Fire Area Closure Terminated
The Bridge Fire Area Closure (Forest Order No. 05-01-25-12) that was in effect from June 5, 2025 through May 22, 2026 has been terminated starting June 20, 2025.
Office & Visitor Center Updates - Need Info or Passes?
The information below provides updates to existing information on our webpage about Angeles National Forest offices and visitor centers. Check this alert regularly.
Williamson Rock Area and Trail Closure
Hikers and equestrians along the Pacific Crest Trail may be affected by a temporary closure of the Williamson Rock area of the Angeles National Forest. This closure (Forest Order No.
Planning to Camp? (Stay Limits/Dispersed Camping Restrictions) til Dec. 15, 2026
The following is prohibited within the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument from Dec. 16, 2022, through Dec. 15, 2026:
About
Located at 5,500 feet elevation in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, Messenger Flats Campground provides a rustic camping experience in Angeles National Forest. The small campground features 10 first-come, first-served campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets are available, but there is no water on-site, so visitors must bring adequate water for cooking, cleaning, drinking, and extinguishing campfires. The campground is particularly popular with equestrians, offering two horse corrals for visitors traveling with horses. Hikers will appreciate the immediate access to the Pacific Crest Trail, located directly across from the campground entrance. The area sees light use compared to other Angeles National Forest campgrounds, providing a quieter wilderness experience. Access is via Santa Clara Divide Road, approximately 30 miles from Interstate 210. While the campground is technically open year-round, winter access can be challenging due to snow on the roads. Camping requires an Adventure Pass ($5 per day) or America the Beautiful Pass, with an additional $5 per night camping fee.
Directions
From Interstate 210 in La Canada, exit at Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2) and drive north for 9 miles. Turn left onto Angeles Forest Highway (County Road N3) and drive about 12 miles to Mill Creek Summit. Turn left on Santa Clara Divide Road and continue 9-12 miles to the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| 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 | $5 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (626) 574-1613 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
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