Anderson Flat Campground

For adventurous Californians seeking a rugged, high-elevation camping experience far from the crowds, Anderson Flat Campground in Angelus Oaks presents a unique opportunity. Tucked away atop a hill along the San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail, this isn't your typical amenity-rich campground. Instead, it caters to those who appreciate solitude, panoramic views, and a more primitive connection with the stunning San Bernardino Mountains. It’s a destination for seasoned hikers and backpackers looking for a strategic overnight stop or a secluded base for exploring the area's challenging trails and breathtaking vistas.

Anderson Flat offers a distinct vantage point, providing glimpses of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding wilderness through its scattered, healthy trees. While privacy might be somewhat limited due to the open nature of the "flat" at the hilltop, the overall sense of being high above the valley floor is a major draw. Water, a critical resource in any backcountry setting, is accessible nearby at Trail Fork Springs, adding to the self-sufficiency required for a stay here. This campground isn't about luxury; it's about the pure, unadulterated experience of mountain camping.

For those who relish a challenge and the rewards of magnificent scenery, Anderson Flat can be a memorable part of a multi-day trek or a focused expedition to explore the high peaks. While some might find an even more "epic" experience at nearby Trail Fork Springs Campsite, Anderson Flat holds its own for its strategic location and unique perspective. This guide will provide essential details for Californians considering a true backcountry adventure at Anderson Flat Campground.

Anderson Flat Campground is situated in Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA, specifically along the San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail. This location places it within the high country of the San Bernardino National Forest, making it a remote and elevated camping destination.

Accessibility to Anderson Flat is primarily via hiking trails, rather than direct vehicle access. It's considered a backcountry or wilderness campsite, meaning you won't drive your car directly to your site. Instead, campers typically hike in, often as part of a longer backpacking trip along the San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail or connecting trails like the Forsee Creek Trail. The review indicates it's "Campground at top of hill," suggesting a significant ascent is involved to reach it.

The surrounding area is characterized by high-elevation mountain terrain with scattered, "short and healthy" trees. This elevation means that conditions can vary greatly with the season, with snow likely during winter and cooler temperatures even in summer. Visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions and high-altitude effects.

Hikers accessing this area often begin from trailheads near Angelus Oaks, such as the Forsee Creek Trailhead. It's crucial to note that parking at such trailheads typically requires a National Parks Pass or an Adventure Pass. Additionally, wilderness permits are often required for overnight stays in designated wilderness areas within national forests, which this area likely falls under. These permits help manage visitor impact and ensure safety.

The remote location means that services are virtually non-existent at the campground itself, emphasizing self-sufficiency. Navigation skills and preparedness for backcountry conditions are paramount for anyone planning to visit Anderson Flat Campground.

Anderson Flat Campground operates with a highly primitive and minimalist approach, characteristic of high-elevation backcountry campsites. Visitors should expect very few, if any, formal services, emphasizing self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

Based on the provided information, the core "services" or amenities available at Anderson Flat Campground include:

• Designated Camping Area: The primary service is a recognized "Campground at top of hill," indicating a specific, permitted area for setting up tents. While "not much privacy" is noted, there's enough space for individual setups.

• Basic Site Features: Reviews mention rudimentary features like a "large picnic area with an overhang, a water pump, and a firepit" at other group sites like Cottonwood. However, the review for Anderson Flat specifically states "our spot did not have a picnic table" and implies very limited infrastructure, possibly only a cleared area for tents and a fire ring if permitted. It's safest to assume minimal, if any, pre-built amenities directly at individual sites.

• Natural Water Source (Nearby): A critical "service" is access to water, which is "down the trail at Trail Fork Springs junction." This is a natural spring, and it's explicitly stated that the "spring is almost frozen. Don't expect flowing water much longer." This means water availability can be highly seasonal and unreliable, requiring campers to filter or treat all water obtained and to carry backup water supplies or a means to melt snow if applicable.

What is explicitly NOT offered and crucial to understand for this type of backcountry site:

• No Potable Water On-Site: Water must be fetched from a natural source and treated.

• No Restrooms: Campers must practice proper human waste disposal (e.g., catholes at least 200 feet from water, trails, and camp, or packing out waste).

• No Trash Disposal: All trash must be packed out. "Pack it in, pack it out" is essential.

• No Electricity or Hookups: This is a primitive site. No RV hookups or power sources are available.

• Limited Shade/Privacy: The trees are "short and healthy, no worry about getting crushed, but not much shade." This means sun exposure can be significant, and privacy is not a strong feature.

• No Designated Host or Services: There is no on-site host or convenience items for sale.

Anderson Flat Campground is truly a self-service, wilderness camping experience, requiring campers to be fully prepared and self-sufficient.

Anderson Flat Campground, while primitive, offers several distinct features and highlights that appeal to experienced backcountry campers and those seeking a rugged mountain adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest.

• Elevated Location with Views: A primary highlight is its position "at top of hill." This high vantage point provides unique "Views of Big Bear Lake and area seen through the trees." While not always unobstructed, these glimpses of the surrounding landscape and distant lake offer a rewarding sense of accomplishment and scenic beauty after the climb.

• Access to San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail: The campground's location directly on the "San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail" is a significant feature for avid hikers and backpackers. This means direct access to one of the region's prominent high-altitude trails, serving as an excellent base for day hikes to nearby peaks or as a stop on a multi-day trekking adventure.

• Natural Wind Protection: Despite being on a hilltop, the mention of "A berm and nearby hills protect you from the wind" indicates some natural shielding. This is a valuable feature in high-elevation environments where strong winds can be a significant factor, contributing to a more comfortable camping experience than completely exposed ridgelines.

• Healthy, Shorter Trees: The description of "Trees here are short and healthy, no worry about getting crushed" is a subtle but important highlight. It reassures campers about the safety of the tree cover, while still providing some natural elements without obstructing views entirely. While offering "not much shade," their health is a positive aspect.

• Proximity to Natural Water Source: The availability of water "down the trail at Trail Fork Spings junction" is a crucial highlight for a backcountry site. While the review notes it's a "spring" and potentially unreliable ("almost frozen. Don't expect flowing water much longer"), knowing there's a potential natural water source nearby is vital for planning, even if it requires treatment and a backup plan.

• Seclusion and Primitive Experience: For those who actively seek to escape crowded campgrounds and fully immerse themselves in the wilderness, Anderson Flat's primitive nature and remote location are major highlights. It offers a quiet, undeveloped setting where the focus is entirely on nature and self-reliance.

These features collectively appeal to a specific type of camper: the one who prioritizes challenging hikes, expansive views, and a minimalist camping style over modern conveniences.

Anderson Flat Campground is a primitive, backcountry campsite located within the San Bernardino National Forest. As such, it does not have a direct phone number, a dedicated on-site office, or staff for direct inquiries in the way a developed campground would.

Address: Angelus Oaks, San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA

Given its nature, primary contact and information sources for Anderson Flat Campground and the surrounding wilderness area fall under the management of the U.S. Forest Service.

For information regarding this area, including trail conditions, wilderness permits, fire restrictions, and general safety guidelines, you would typically contact the relevant Ranger District of the San Bernardino National Forest:

Mountain Top Ranger District (for general Big Bear area information):

• Phone: (909) 382-2790

• Located at Big Bear Discovery Center

Mill Creek Ranger Station (closer to Angelus Oaks and San Bernardino Peak access):

• Phone: (909) 382-2882

It is highly recommended to reach out to one of these offices or visit the official San Bernardino National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/sbnf) before planning a trip to Anderson Flat Campground. Key information to confirm includes:

• Wilderness Permit Requirements: Overnight stays in wilderness areas often require self-issued or reserved permits. Confirm how to obtain these.

• Current Trail Conditions: Especially important for high-elevation trails, check for snow, ice, or closures.

• Water Source Status: Inquire about the reliability and flow of Trail Fork Springs, particularly outside of peak seasons, as it's a critical water source.

• Fire Restrictions: Desert and mountain areas frequently have fire bans. Confirm if campfires are permitted.

• Bear Canister or Food Storage Requirements: Learn about regulations for protecting food from wildlife.

Being thoroughly prepared and informed through official channels is paramount for a safe and responsible backcountry experience at Anderson Flat Campground.

For adventurous Californians, particularly those residing in Southern California and seeking a challenging yet rewarding backcountry experience, Anderson Flat Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination. It caters specifically to a local demographic that values solitude, self-sufficiency, and the raw beauty of our state's wilderness.

What makes Anderson Flat ideal for locals is its genuine primitive nature. In a state where many campgrounds are increasingly developed, this site offers a true escape into the high country. It's a place where you earn your views and tranquility, appealing directly to experienced hikers and backpackers who are prepared for minimal amenities. The "Campground at top of hill" provides a sense of accomplishment and unique "Views of Big Bear Lake and area seen through the trees," a perspective rarely afforded by roadside campgrounds.

Its location directly on the San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail is a significant draw for local outdoor enthusiasts. It serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the challenging and beautiful high-elevation trails of the San Bernardino Mountains, offering access to some of the region's most iconic peaks and scenic vistas. This accessibility to extensive trail systems for multi-day trips is highly valued by California's robust hiking community.

While the water source at Trail Fork Springs is a "down the trail" trek and can be "almost frozen," this simply adds to the authentic backcountry challenge that many local adventurers seek. It reinforces the need for preparedness and self-reliance, skills highly prized by those who venture deep into our wilderness areas. The natural protection from wind, provided by a "berm and nearby hills," also adds a practical element of comfort in an otherwise exposed environment.

Anderson Flat Campground might not offer hot showers or picnic tables at every spot, and it might not have much privacy, but for Californians who crave a genuine wilderness experience, who are prepared to carry their own water and manage their waste, and who find solace in the quiet grandeur of the mountains, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to truly connect with the wild heart of our home state. It's a testament to the diverse and challenging outdoor experiences available right in our own backyard.

Anderson Flat Campground

Angelus Oaks, San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA