Piedra Blanca to Haddock Camp

Piedra Blanca to Haddock Camp is a 20-mile out-and-back located in the Sespe Wilderness within Los Padres National Forest. The trail starts from the Piedra Blanca Trailhead and heads north for 10 miles to Haddock Camp, one of several small backcountry campsites in the area. The trail features interesting white sandstone rock formations, pine forests, streams, creeks, and wildflowers in the spring.

Haddock Camp, located halfway along the trail, is nestled among tall pine trees and craggy rocks. Thei backcountry camp makes for a perfect break spot or overnight camping area. The route can be completed as a day hike or overnight camping trip and is suitable for trail running, hiking, backpacking, and camping.

Piedra Blanca Trailhead is about 2.5 hours from Los Angeles, and around 1.5 hours from Santa Barbara, making it perfect for city dwellers looking for a weekend trip.

MILES AND DESCRIPTIONS

0.00 - Start from the Piedra Blanca Trailhead. 

0.30 - Cross Sespe Creek.

0.40 - Turn right at trail junction. 

2.80 - Piedra Blanca Camp.

3.30 - Twin Forks Camp.

6.40 - Pine Mountain Lodge Camp and trail junction (stay on Piedra Blanca, do not turn right on Cedar 

          Creek). 

8.10 - Three Mile Camp.

10.00 - Haddock Camp / Turn around point.

WATER
Piedra Blanca Creek - seasonal (must be treated before consumption).

CAMPING AND WILDERNESS PERMITS

• Los Padres National Forest does not issue backcountry permits. 

• All backcountry wilderness camps are first-come, first-serve. 

• California Campfire Permit is required for use of camp stoves. More information about obtaining a California Campfire permit can be found at https://www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/campfire-permit/.

• An Adventure Pass is required to park at the Piedra Blanca Trailhead.

PIEDRA BLANCA TRAILHEAD

• Parking - Large parking area for day use and overnight.  A valid recreation pass is required. 

• Camping - no overnight camping allowed at the trailhead. 

• Bathrooms available.

• Picnic Tables available.

More information can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recarea/?recid=81832. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Los Padres National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recarea/?recid=11033. 

Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail: https://www.calwild.org/piedra-blanca-nrt/. 

Piedra Blanca Trailhead: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recarea/?recid=81832.