Currently closed due to the Gifford Fire closure affecting the Santa Lucia Ranger District. The closure order was most recently updated on April 7, 2026, and remains in effect.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Monterey Ranger District Emergency Closure Order with Exceptions
To provide for public safety, the Timber and Plaskett Fire Area are closed, including roads and trails described in Exhibit A and shown on the Exhibit B Map.This Forest Order No. 05-07-51-26-11 supersedes Forest Order No. 05-07-51-26-10.
Special Closure - SBRD Storm Damage Recovery
Closure of developed recreation sites, roads, and trails in the Santa Barbara Ranger District impacted by storm damage and some roads restricted to non-motorized use. Effective from September 16, 2026, through September 15, 2027.
About
Baja Campground sits at 1,520 feet elevation along Alder Creek in the Santa Lucia Ranger District of Los Padres National Forest. This small, primitive campground offers just two campsites tucked beneath oak canopy, making it a quiet retreat for those seeking solitude. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, though fires are subject to current restrictions. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees and no reservations. Basic facilities include pit toilets, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring all water supplies. Trash service is not provided; pack-it-out rules apply. A 14-day stay limit is enforced. Baja is particularly popular with OHV enthusiasts as a staging point for trail and road riding in the area. All vehicles must have current registration and spark arrestors. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet.
Directions
From Santa Maria: Take Highway 166 east for 25 miles, then turn onto Branch Creek Road and continue 3 miles northwest.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (805) 925-9538 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Baja Campground | |
| Los Padres NF Current Alerts |
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