Accessible via Mount Baldy Road, Manker Campground sits at the end of a winding mountain route in Angeles National Forest, offering 21 sites with electric hookups for RVs up to 16 feet. The US Forest Service facility operates seasonally from May through October at $20 per night with no reservation system—sites fill on a first-come, first-served basis.
The campground follows a single loop design with most sites positioned under tree cover. Midweek visits typically yield quiet conditions, though weekend crowds can bring noise levels that concern some campers. Christi W. describes the location as "tucked away at the top of a precarious winding mountain road." Black bears frequent the area, particularly at dusk, making proper food storage essential since individual bear boxes are not provided at each site.
Hiking access draws many visitors, with major trailheads located nearby including routes into Ice House Canyon. The surrounding terrain offers open areas mixed with forested sections, and wildlife sightings include deer, rabbits, and squirrels along with the resident bear population. Water spigots distribute throughout the campground, though bathroom facilities can become heavily soiled during busy weekend periods.
Road conditions require attention, as the access route involves steep, winding sections that challenge some drivers. Cell service remains spotty, with AT&T showing no coverage. The campground restricts occupancy to one vehicle per site, and pets are welcome. Campers seeking additional options in the region can explore campgrounds near Mount Baldy for comparison. Michelle W. found "bathrooms were clean and supplied with TP" during her May visit when only a handful of other campers shared the space.
Description
Camp high in the clouds at Manker Flats Campground. This campground sits at 6000-feet and offers 21 campsites open year-round. However, piped-water is turned once temperatures reach freezing. Each site comes with a spacious spot for all your family camping needs and includes a picnic bench, fire ring, and vault toilets. It's located within a short drive to historic Mt. Baldy Schoolhouse and Visitor Center where visitors can discover the land's Native American roots. Close by, hikers have several options to begin their day's adventure including, Mt. Baldy Bowl trailhead. This trailhead can be combined with another major route, Devil's Backbone, to reach the summit (10,069') to form an impressive 11.3-mile loop hike. For the more casual hiker, a 1.4 mile round trip to the 75-foot San Antonio Falls is available. Bears are very active in this area, so it is recommended that all campers use provided bear boxes, personal bear canisters, or seal all food as to eliminate scent.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundManker Campground is located in California
Directions
From Foothill Blvd. in Claremont, take Mills Ave. until it turns into Mt. Baldy Road. Drive 12 miles north on Mt. Baldy Rd. passed Mt. Baldy Village to the campground. (Note: Foothill can be reached by taking Mountain Ave. north from the 10 freeway). Call (626) 335-1251 for current conditions and additional information.
Coordinates
34.26500046 N
117.63100082 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
Drive Time
- 1 hr 12 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 1 hr 54 min from Oxnard, CA
- 2 hrs 17 min from San Diego, CA
- 2 hrs 22 min from Bakersfield, CA
