Los Padres National Forest Permits
Rugged coastal wilderness from Big Sur to Santa Barbara. Includes Ventana and Silver Peak Wilderness areas.
Signature Experiences
The most sought-after permits in Los Padres
Kirk Creek
“Every site here sits on a bluff about 100 feet above the Pacific, with an ocean view from the tent door.”
Plaskett Creek
“A campground on the Big Sur coast across the highway from Sand Dollar Beach, with a two-night minimum and a booking window that closes three days out.”
Pine Ridge
Classic Big Sur backpacking to Sykes Hot Springs. Campfire permit required.
All Permits
Select a permit to learn more and set up alerts
Kirk Creek Campground permit
Coastal bluff campground on Highway 1. High demand.
Pine Ridge Trail / Sykes Hot Springs permit
Classic Big Sur backpacking to Sykes Hot Springs. Campfire permit required.
Plaskett Creek Group Campground permit
Group camping near Sand Dollar Beach.
Vicente Flat Trail permit
Classic Big Sur coastal backpacking. No quota permit.
Buckeye Trail / Hot Springs permit
Silver Peak Wilderness hot springs corridor.
Nacimiento Campground permit
Remote ridge campground on Nacimiento-Fergusson Road.
Salmon Creek Trail permit
Waterfall access and wilderness entry on South Coast.
Other National Forests & Wilderness Areas
Explore more wilderness permits in the region
Wind Rivers permits
4 permits
CT permits
2 permits
Indian Peaks permits
3 permits
Linville Gorge permits
2 permits
Los Padres Permit FAQ
What permits are required for Los Padres National Forest?
Los Padres National Forest requires permits for various activities including Kirk Creek, Plaskett Creek, Plaskett Group, Nacimiento, Escondido, and 6 more. Each permit has different requirements and booking processes.
How do I get a permit for Los Padres National Forest?
Permits for Los Padres National Forest are available through Reservation, Walk-Up systems. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When should I apply for Los Padres National Forest permits?
Timing varies by permit type. Lottery permits typically open months in advance, while reservation permits release on a rolling basis. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to never miss an opening.