Forbush Flats
Cold Spring Saddle to Forbush Camp
A short, steep descent takes you to a great campsite with a seasonal creek, two camp areas with picnic-tables, and a big meadow for overflow camping. Once an old homestead, fruit trees still standing, it’s arguably the easiest and fastest backpacking trip in Santa Barbara County.
Duration: 1 night
Distance: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 800’
Best Time: April–May or Sept.-Oct. (avoid heat)
Submitted by
Trek Wild
Created
December 2019
Starting Trailhead: Cold Spring Saddle
Ending Trailhead: Cold Spring Saddle
Day 1
Head north on Cold Spring Trail to Forbush Camp. (1.76 miles)
Day 2
Hike out in the same manner you hiked in. (1.75 miles)
Itinerary Options
Make it a more advanced hike by adding on nights at Blue Canyon Camp (3 miles from Forbush Flat Camp) or Big Caliente Hot Springs (10 miles).
Key Risks
Water Availability: Unreliable in the fall. Because the hike is short and the elevation gain modest, packing in all your water is reasonable. Check Hike Los Padres for current conditions.
Poison Oak: Widespread around camp and along the creek, so long pants are required. There is a pit toilet, but the access trail is often overgrown with poison oak.
Permits Needed
None
Resources