Open Ridge-Black Diamond (FR 18N02) in CA -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in California
Open Ridge-Black Diamond (FR 18N02) in CA
A 23.4-mile stretch of dirt National Forest road in Glenn County, CA. The road serves Triplet Butte. The road is open seasonally, April 16 to November 14.
Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days.
All 23.4 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Dirt the whole way in (23.4 miles). Climbs 6,300 ft over 23.4 miles -- sustained grades near 16%, with pitches to 33%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~150 ft on the downhill side. Winds through 24 switchbacks. Dead-end road -- no mapped turnaround; expect to back out or unhitch. Water crossings 21.3 and 21.4 miles in.
Saint John Mountain stands 3,747 ft above the site, 2.8 miles southwest. Secluded here -- the nearest through road is 2.4 miles off. The nearest town, Willows, is 25 mi off.
September normals 61–81°F, 0.2″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov