Los Padres National Forest; Toad Spring Campground
Atop Quatal Canyon, on Forest Rd #9N09
5700′ elevation w/ 5 camp sites.
picnic tables, fire rings & no toilet.
Red dirt Quatal Canyon, next to the Chumash Wilderness & the Apache Saddle, a small campground is an oasis for the wildlife. A year round drippy, soggy natural springs feeds the meadow & trickles down the dirt road. Great birdwatching, wildflowers & hunting area.
OHV use is common; Quatal Cyn trails, a long desert wash to explore. Short side canyons to the right, off of main road (9N09). Many routes may require a high clearance vehicle, but not 4×4, unless it’s raining or wet or snowy. You’ll need a Los Padres Forest map to get the most enjoyment out of this confusing landscape. The multi-colored, eroded badlands makes great day hikes. Chumash Cliffs & Mount Abel 8286′.
Ballinger Canyon OHV Park is about 20 miles away, via Quatal Cyn & then 5 miles N on Hwy 33
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