Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
Yes
Lodging
No
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.

The Chumash Wilderness is a federally protected area of Los Padres National Forest. It encompasses around 38,150 acres near the small town of Frazier Park and is managed by the United States Forest Service.

The area features rugged ridges, pine covered peaks, and barren badlands. There are narrow canyons, seasonal creeks, and perennial springs. Lower elevations are dominated by chaparral and scrubland vegetation with the potential for beautiful displays of springtime wildflowers. In the higher elevations, coniferous forests dominate. 

The highest point in the area is Mount Pinos, which rises 8,831 feet above sea level and is also Ventura County's tallest peak. Historically, the mountain was integral to the lives of the Chumash Native Americans and still holds extreme importance to them today.  

THINGS TO DO

There are a variety of ways to explore and enjoy the Chumash Wilderness area including hiking, backpacking, camping, nature viewing, bird watching, 

Permits are not required for camping and backcountry campsites operate on a first-come first-serve basis. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Los Padres National Forest

Hiking Trails Within Chumash Wilderness

Backcountry Campsites

 

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

National Forest Pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Native significance. Highest peak in Ventura County.

Cons

Trails may be inaccessible in winter.

Features

Wildlife
Backcountry camping
Big vistas
Geologically significant
Wildflowers
Bird watching
Horseback riding
Picnic tables

Location

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