Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
2,872.00 ft (875.39 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
8.05 mi (12.96 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Blue Canyon Camp Loop is a 8.05 mile loop in the Santa Ynez Mountains of Los Padres National Forest. Using both single track trails and fire roads, this loop provides easy access for anyone looking to escape the city and explore the beautiful canyons and rugged wilderness of the Santa Barbara backcountry. 

The loop begins from Romero Saddle located off of East Camino Cielo Road. The paved portion of the road ends at a parking area and a gate. From the gate, the road becomes dirt and is closed to passenger vehicles and electric bicycles. 

From the dirt portion of East Camino Cielo Road hike for .7 miles. Turn left and continue downhill for another 1.1 miles on the Romero Trail / Blue Canyon Trail. At the end of the descent you will reach Blue Canyon Camp, a primitive backcountry campsite. Blue Canyon Camp is first come first served and has a picnic table and fire pit. There is no potable water however, the campsite is located next to a stream that flows year round. 

From Blue Canyon Camp continue southeast on Blue Canyon Trail towards Upper Blue Canyon Camp. In 2.2 miles you will take the Romero Camuesa Road (a dirt road that is closed to vehicle traffic). Romero Camuesa Road turns into East Camino Cielo Road which leads you back to your car. 

IMPORTANT: Watch out for Poison Oak. Common in Los Padres National Forest, exposure to Poison Oak may result in skin irritation such as an itchy rash.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

National or state forest pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

2

Pros

Solitude. Flowing stream. Canyon Views.

Cons

Poison Oak may be present.

Trailhead Elevation

3,078.00 ft (938.17 m)

Highest point

3,078.00 ft (938.17 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

Yes

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.