Shields Flat Campground

For Californians yearning to trade cityscapes for towering pines and crisp mountain air, Shields Flat Campground offers a welcoming and well-equipped haven within the magnificent San Bernardino National Forest. Located near the charming community of Angelus Oaks, this popular campground provides an ideal setting for families, friends, and solo adventurers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Southern California's mountains. It's a place where the sounds of nature replace urban clamor, and the expansive forest invites exploration and relaxation.

Shields Flat Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to diverse outdoor activities and a comfortable base from which to explore the surrounding wilderness. With its thoughtful amenities and prime location, it stands out as a highly suitable destination for locals seeking a convenient yet deeply rewarding mountain escape, offering a blend of rustic charm and essential comforts.

Shields Flat Campground is conveniently situated in the heart of the San Bernardino National Forest, with its official address being San Bernardino National Forest, Peak Divide Trail, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA. This location places it approximately thirty-six miles northeast of the city of San Bernardino, making it a relatively accessible mountain retreat for many residents of Southern California.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward via State Highway 38 (SR-38), a scenic route that winds through the San Bernardino Mountains. From the Redlands area, you would typically take the University Street exit, turn left onto University Street (northbound), and then turn right onto E. Lugonia Avenue/SR-38. Continue on SR-38 for approximately 18.8 miles past the Mill Creek Work Center, and the campground entrance will be on your left. The roads leading to Shields Flat are typically well-maintained, allowing for easy access for various vehicle types, including cars, RVs, and trailers.

Being at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet, Shields Flat Campground offers cooler temperatures than the valleys below, providing a refreshing escape during California's warmer months. Its proximity to other popular mountain destinations, such as Big Bear Lake (within twenty-five miles), further enhances its appeal, allowing visitors to easily explore multiple attractions during their stay. While offering a true forest experience, its relative ease of access ensures that a mountain getaway is always within reach for Californians.

Shields Flat Campground is a well-maintained, hosted campground that provides a robust set of services designed to make your stay comfortable and convenient, catering to a wide range of camping preferences.

• Campsites: The campground features 51 reservable campsites, including 7 accessible sites. These sites accommodate both tent camping and camping trailers/RVs. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, offering a classic camping setup.

• Restroom Facilities: Modern flush toilets and hot showers are available on-site, a significant convenience that enhances the camping experience, particularly for families and those preferring more developed amenities.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is readily available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water for all their needs.

• RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is provided, making it convenient for RV campers to dispose of wastewater before departing, for a fee.

• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is often available for purchase directly at the campground, eliminating the need to bring your own and ensuring you can enjoy a comforting campfire.

• Bear Boxes: Each campsite is equipped with a bear-proof food storage container (typically 48"x 29"x 26"), essential for protecting food and deterring wildlife, promoting safety and responsible camping practices.

• Camp Host: A camp host is typically on-site, providing assistance, information, and ensuring the smooth operation of the campground, contributing to a pleasant and secure environment.

• Reservations: Sites can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov, from 24 hours to up to 6 months in advance, which is highly recommended due to the campground's popularity.

• Fees: Fees apply per night for single and double sites, with an additional fee for extra vehicles. An RV dump fee also applies.

Shields Flat Campground offers numerous features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for a mountain getaway in the San Bernardino National Forest:

• Direct Trail Access: A major highlight is the direct access to the Rio Monte hiking trail, which starts right from the campground. This trail leads uphill towards Jenks Lake and the Santa Ana River, offering picturesque routes for hikers of various skill levels.

• Proximity to Jenks Lake: Jenks Lake, a popular day-use area known for fishing and picnicking, is easily accessible from the campground via the Rio Monte Trail, providing additional recreational opportunities.

• Lush Forest Setting: The campground is nestled among a dense canopy of pine trees, providing ample shade and a true forest ambiance. The natural beauty of the surrounding forest contributes to a serene and immersive outdoor experience.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The forest environment offers chances to spot local wildlife, including various bird species and other forest creatures, enhancing the natural appeal of the area.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With accessible sites, flush toilets, and showers, Shields Flat is particularly well-suited for families, offering a comfortable and convenient camping experience for all ages.

• Proximity to Big Bear Lake: Being within twenty-five miles of Big Bear Lake means campers can easily take day trips to enjoy the lake's extensive recreational offerings, including boating, fishing, and water sports, adding versatility to their mountain vacation.

• Seasonal Operations: The campground operates seasonally, typically from spring through fall (e.g., March to October), ensuring that visitors experience it during the most favorable weather conditions for mountain recreation.

For reservations and general inquiries regarding Shields Flat Campground within the San Bernardino National Forest, the primary contact channels are through the national reservation system and the local ranger district.

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

Reservations:To make reservations for Shields Flat Campground, you can visit the official Recreation.gov website or call their toll-free number:Phone: 1-877-444-6777Website: www.recreation.gov

Reservations can typically be made from 24 hours up to 6 months in advance, and it is highly recommended to book early, especially for popular weekends and holidays, as the campground can experience heavy usage.

Local Information:For more specific information regarding current conditions, trail closures, or local alerts within the San Bernardino National Forest, you can contact the appropriate Ranger District. While a direct phone number specifically for Shields Flat Campground is not published, inquiries can often be directed to the Mountain Top Ranger District or the San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor's Office.General San Bernardino National Forest information can often be found through their official U.S. Forest Service website or by contacting their general inquiry lines. Always check official sources for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

Shields Flat Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for Californians seeking a mountain escape, particularly for those residing in Southern California. Its inherent advantages cater directly to the desires of local outdoor enthusiasts.

Firstly, the campground's accessibility is a major draw. Situated within a relatively short drive from major urban centers like San Bernardino and Los Angeles, it allows for convenient weekend trips or spontaneous mid-week adventures without the need for extensive travel. This ease of access means more time enjoying the mountains and less time on the road, a significant benefit for busy Californians looking to maximize their leisure.

Secondly, Shields Flat offers a balanced camping experience that appeals to a wide range of local campers. Unlike primitive backcountry sites, its developed amenities like flush toilets, hot showers, and a hosted presence provide a comfortable and secure environment, making it an excellent choice for families with children or those new to camping. Yet, it retains the natural allure of the San Bernardino National Forest, surrounded by towering trees and offering direct access to scenic hiking trails, satisfying the craving for genuine outdoor immersion.

Lastly, the abundance of recreational opportunities both within and around the campground makes it a versatile destination. From hiking the Rio Monte Trail to fishing at Jenks Lake or exploring the attractions of nearby Big Bear Lake, there's something to cater to every interest. This rich tapestry of activities, combined with the refreshing mountain climate, establishes Shields Flat Campground as a prime local asset – a refreshing, convenient, and truly rewarding escape into nature, right in California's backyard.

Shields Flat Campground

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