MARIAN
Seasonally open May through December. Currently listed as closed due to seasonal closure. Access is via steep, narrow dirt road requiring high-clearance vehicle.
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
Marian Campground occupies a scenic ridgeline position at 6,590 feet elevation in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District of Los Padres National Forest. The campground is shaded by a mix of Jeffrey pines and oak trees, offering a cool retreat during warmer months. It serves as a trailhead for the McPhearson Peak Trail and the Aliso Park Trail (27W02), which extends 4.76 miles into the San Rafael Wilderness in Santa Barbara County. This is a primitive, free campground with no reservations required. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table, but there are no restrooms or potable water, so campers must be fully self-sufficient. The campground is particularly popular with hunters during fall season. A 14-day stay limit applies. Access requires navigating Forest Service road 9N27, a steep and narrow dirt road where high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. The campground is not suitable for RVs or trailers due to road conditions.
Directions
Located off Mil Potrero Highway, approximately three miles west of Pine Mountain Club. Take Forest Service road 9N27 north for 1.5 miles. Steep, narrow dirt road; high-clearance vehicle recommended.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| 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 (661) 245-3731 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
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