Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Regardless of the time of year, a fire permit is required for backcountry camping.
The permits allow full campfires during the wet season (November through April) or
the use of camp stoves the rest of the year. East side campers should contact the Los
Padres National Forest Headquarters in Goleta at (805) 968-6640. West side campers
can obtain a permit either at Big Sur Station, a half mile south of Pfeiffer Big Sur
State Park, or at Pacific Valley Station, 5 miles north of Gorda.
Noise Pollution
Respect the natural peace, fellow hikers, and neighboring campers by keeping all trail
and camp chatter down. Raucous behavior may also spook wildlife.
Camp at established sites to minimize your impact and “leave no trace.”
Sanitation
Keep soap and detergent away from all natural water sources. If you're susceptible to
poison oak and need to wash with medicated soap, do not bathe in the streams. Such
products contain toxic chemicals that pollute water. Wash with water from a pot, and
rinse at least 100 feet from any water source.
