Recreation area

Gifford Trailhead

Los Padres National Forest · California — managed by USDA Forest Service

Open recreation area — no reservation needed

About this campground

The site is located on Hwy #166 26 miles east of Santa Maria. This trail is currently within the Front Fire Closure area. No access. Trail is expected to reopen in early 2019.  Gifford Trailhead has one large parking area and serving hikers, equestrians. No motorized use allowed.   The Gifford trail (18E12) 2.2 miles has beautiful scenic views. Hitching posts. Picnicking 1 table. Stock trailer parking. Difficulty level : Easy  The trailhead is open all year.

Activities

  • HIKING
  • HORSEBACK RIDING

Nearby federal campgrounds

Explore more California camping

Gifford Trailhead doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby California campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.

Browse California camping →

Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.