嘿,所有的,我有一个星期了,想花一些of it - probably about 3-4 days - exploring Big Sur (probably after taking Highway 1 down from the Bay Area). Thought I would see if anyone was interested in joining me for some or all of it. I'm pretty flexible about which days between 3/21 and 3/31 it takes place on. I'll be riding a KLR 650. The plan is to explore the Coast Ridge Trail and camp along that while I'm down there. Does anyone know how important it is to camp in a designated area? Do rangers keep close tabs on it? Or is it possible to just pitch a tent anywhere along the road where there's a clearing? I am new to riding (about a year) and newer to riding dirt - my experience is limited to fire trails in the Sierra Nevadas - so this wouldn't be the trip for someone who wants to really give it the beans the whole way. Or at least not if you want someone to keep up with you. But maybe we could plan spots to meet and camp and go our separate ways during the day? One afternoon or morning, I'll probably take a long hike up one of the peaks.
Rangers will probably stop by. No fires allowed. Pack your trash out. You can camp just about anywhere as long as your not on private property or blocking a road. Not to be a dick or piss on your trip but Please do the world a favor and don't post a map or travelogue about camping up there. Not that its a secret but there has been a 1000% increase in people camping up there over the last 30 years and it won't be long till it affects the way its managed as far as camping etc. Have fun, be safe...
Dispersed camping is allowed in all National Forests unless otherwise posted. Fires are restricted in different districts at different times, you have to watch the notifications. Where allowed you will need a Camp Fire Permit:https://www.fire.ca.gov/communications/communications_firesafety_camping_campfirepermits You are out of your mind if you think you can keep the neo-hippies and others from discovering camping there if a location is posted on a web site like this. Nacio Ferg Road and all of the others will have someone camping at every turnout and spot wide enough to park. Don't be a NIMBY or close the door behind you after you get in type of person. Our National Forests are for everyone!
I was watching this thread with the hopes of getting out to Big Sur to join you for part or all of your trip but work and other commitments got in the way. Not sure if you're still out and about enjoying that fantastic area, if you've returned, perhaps a few pics would be in order? I discovered that area awhile back and if I had the financial where with all I'd purchase some land up there. StongBad, thanks for posting that link to the CA. fire permits - good info. I was in Cancun in the early 80's before it became the twisted 7th circle of hell Disneyland tourist trap that it has since become - I don't think Big Sur will ever get like that in our lifetimes - too rugged and too remote, so lets enjoy it while we can. "NIMBY" I had to look that one up...Great word.
I got back last night after four days of busting around down there. It was a great time - good riding, good camping, crash bars did there job- etc. There was a spring bloom and the wild flowers were beautiful. Thanks for the info on camping! I appreciate the info. It's good to know that the policy is that camping is allowed UNLESS otherwise posted (as opposed to the other way around, say). And I absolutely agree with your thoughts about not closing the door behind you after you've found good adventuring. National parks and forests, BLM land - these areas for everyone, and while I like solitude when camping as much as anyone, I don't want to have it at the cost of excluding other people from public lands.
Good to hear you were able to make the trip and with no injuries... ! Any pics would be welcome - I could use some vicarious image inspiration... Keep it on the down low though... : )
