Lower South Ridge (FR 24N53) in CA -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in California
Lower South Ridge (FR 24N53) in CA
A 4.3-mile stretch of dirt National Forest road in Tehama County, CA. The road serves Onion Springs.
Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days.
All 4.3 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Dirt the whole way in (4.3 miles). Climbs 390 ft over 4.3 miles -- sustained grades near 14%, with pitches to 19%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~130 ft on the downhill side. Little level ground alongside -- few of the stretches measured have a flat spot to pull onto. Winds through 7 switchbacks. Dead-end road -- no mapped turnaround; expect to back out or unhitch.
Telephone Ridge stands 1,020 ft above the site, 1.0 miles north. Private here -- the nearest through road is 1.0 miles off. A body of water lies 1.1 mi off. The nearest town, Covelo, is 25 mi off.
September normals 55–77°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