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Forbush Camp Los Padres National Forest

  • Camp Type: Trail Camp
  • Topo Map Link: Santa Barbara
  • Elevation: 2438 feet
  • Wilderness Area: Non Wilderness Area
  • County: Santa Barbara County
  • Ranger District: Santa Barbara Ranger District
  • Longitude: -119.63746
  • Latitude: 34.49747713
  • Water Sources: Year-round water is available from Gidney Creek in all but the driest years. If dry next to camp, continue upstream.
  • Length of Stay: 14 Days
  • Reservations: Trail Camp

Recent Water Reports:

Date Surveyor Water Report
10-23-2024Dale PearsonFlowing
10-13-2024Colin PrinciFlowing
10-05-2024Nate KirchhoferFlowing
09-08-2024Andy H.Flowing
02-02-2024Jess CooperFlowing
11-12-2023Los Padres Forest AssociationTrickle
07-22-2023Alex SiapkasFlowing
07-02-2023mwbFlowing
04-02-2023Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
03-19-2023Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
12-22-2022Paul CronshawFlowing
12-09-2022Anonymous SurveyorDry
08-04-2022Paul CronshawTrickle
05-18-2022Paul CronshawTrickle
03-30-2022Addison JerlowFlowing
03-17-2022Susie TFlowing
02-06-2022Stephen SFlowing
02-02-2022Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
01-16-2022Paul CronshawFlowing
12-27-2021Troop 37 - Jonathan RocqueFlowing
11-27-2021James WapotichDry
11-06-2021Donnie TDry
06-21-2021Paul CronshawDry
04-18-2021Anonymous SurveyorTrickle
04-11-2021Anonymous SurveyorDry
04-10-2021Philip D DrachtTrickle
03-28-2021Anonymous SurveyorTrickle
02-28-2021Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
02-14-2021Bryant K.Flowing
01-30-2021Hogg WildFlowing
01-30-2021Antonio CalderonFlowing
01-09-2021Thomas EverestStagnant
12-03-2020John M OConnellTrickle
12-01-2020Anonymous SurveyorDry
11-06-2020DoggerStagnant
08-29-2020Anonymous SurveyorStagnant
08-10-2020Michael CTrickle
07-01-2020Martina GFlowing
06-13-2020Sarah WFlowing
05-09-2020M SchlessFlowing
05-03-2020Shaddus Maximus Flowing
04-17-2020Nathan CampFlowing
01-20-2020RyanStagnant
01-12-2020Antonio CalderonFlowing
12-21-2019Jay WrightFlowing
12-14-2019Steve SchottFlowing
05-30-2019Rudi HuntelmannFlowing
05-27-2019Jonathan RocqueFlowing
04-20-2019Anthony VasquezFlowing
02-17-2019Jonathan RocqueFlowing
01-20-2019Paul CronshawFlowing
10-20-2018Anonymous SurveyorDry
09-23-2018Telford WorkTrickle
05-27-2018PhilStagnant
03-29-2018MichaelFlowing
09-11-2017Jared BreseeDry
07-30-2017Paul CronshawTrickle
07-02-2017Anonymous SurveyorStagnant
05-13-2017Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
04-16-2017Donald TFlowing
03-19-2017WayneGFlowing
03-04-2017Paul CronshawFlowing
02-25-2017Michel GirouxFlowing
02-12-2017Michael SFlowing
02-05-2017Los Padres Forest AssociationFlowing
01-28-2017Day TripperFlowing
01-16-2017Shaddus MaximusTrickle
11-06-2016Shaddus Maximus Dry
04-30-2016Paul CronshawTrickle
04-23-2016James WapotichTrickle
04-16-2016Matt SwiderTrickle
04-09-2016Michael SFlowing
03-23-2016Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
03-12-2016Anonymous BackpackerTrickle
02-15-2016Shaddus Maximus Dry
02-07-2016JamesDry
02-07-2016JamesDry
11-27-2015Anonymous SurveyorDry
11-21-2015Hiker TimDry
11-03-2015Los Padres Forest AssociationDry
12-21-2014Anonymous SurveyorTrickle
12-18-2014Los Padres Forest AssociationDry
11-05-2014Los Padres Forest AssociationDry
10-18-2014Los Padres Forest AssociationDry
05-20-2014Hike Los PadresStagnant

Description:

Forbush Flats Camp is located about 1.5 miles down the north side of the Cold Spring Trail from Cold Spring Saddle.  The camp is set in a hanging potrero about midway down the north slope of the Santa Ynez Mountains.  It is bordered on north by Gidney Creek, south by a geologic ridge spine, east by a steep drop into Blue Canyon, and to the west by the outflow of Gidney Creek. Beyond Camp, one can continue down the Cold Spring Trail toward the Mono Jungle, or turn onto the Blue Canyon Trail

The potrero is also home to a variety of plant life including madrone, oak, sycamore, cedar, pine and pear trees.  PEAR TREES?  Yes, pear trees.  Legend has it that a man named Forbush settled this flat and grew an orchard of apple and pear trees.  While one of the apple trees was disgracfully cut down a few years back, there are a handful of pear trees that remain.  If you happen across the camp in the late summer or early fall you can literally taste the fruits of Forbushe's labor.

The camp is nestled on the edge of a meadow that allows for great star gazing, the occasional animal siting, or frisbee playing.  There are two main campsites, each with a table and fire ring. There is also a small pit toilet above the higher of the two camps.  Forbush is a great beginner backpacking destination and offers quick relief for the urban-challenged in Santa Barbara, since one can be at camp within two hours of leaving home.

Recent Uploads:

Survey Photos:


  • Los Padres Forest Association - 11-05-2014
    Trailhead Sign

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 11-05-2014
    Forbush Camp

  • Hiker Tim - 11-21-2015
    One of the Forbush fruit trees with Fall color.

  • Hiker Tim - 11-21-2015
    Our camp

  • Hiker Tim - 11-21-2015
    Fossil on the trail to Mono

  • Hiker Tim - 11-21-2015
    Fall color on the trail to Forbush

  • Paul Cronshaw - 04-30-2016
    Pool of clean water below the lower campsite.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 02-05-2017

  • Paul Cronshaw - 03-04-2017
    Upper campsite

  • Paul Cronshaw - 03-04-2017
    Lower campsite

  • Paul Cronshaw - 03-04-2017
    Water flowing in Gidley Creek.

  • WayneG - 03-19-2017
    Good Flow

  • WayneG - 03-19-2017
    2nd Campsite

  • WayneG - 03-19-2017
    1st Campsite

  • WayneG - 03-19-2017
    Firewood for the future

  • WayneG - 03-19-2017
    Apple Tree in Bloom

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 07-02-2017

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 07-02-2017

  • Paul Cronshaw - 07-30-2017
    Lower Campsite

  • Paul Cronshaw - 07-30-2017
    Pools with trickling water up creek from upper campsite

  • Telford Work - 09-23-2018

  • Paul Cronshaw - 01-20-2019
    Gidley Creek at Forbush

  • Anthony Vasquez - 04-20-2019
    Nice table, fire pit, shovel and rake

  • Anthony Vasquez - 04-20-2019
    A nice tent pad over under a pine

  • Anthony Vasquez - 04-20-2019
    Good stumps for sitting

  • Anthony Vasquez - 04-20-2019
    Huge pear tree in full bloom

  • Anthony Vasquez - 04-20-2019
    Stream

  • Anthony Vasquez - 04-20-2019
    second camp site through the trees

  • Antonio Calderon - 01-12-2020

  • Antonio Calderon - 01-12-2020

  • Ryan - 01-20-2020

  • Michael C - 08-10-2020

  • Michael C - 08-10-2020

  • Michael C - 08-10-2020

  • Dogger - 11-06-2020
    Harvest time at Forbush.

  • Paul Cronshaw - 06-21-2021
    Newly painted table

  • Paul Cronshaw - 01-16-2022
    Upper Camp Cleaned fire pit

  • Paul Cronshaw - 01-16-2022
    Lower Camp fire pit BEFORE cleaning

  • Paul Cronshaw - 01-16-2022
    Lower Camp fire pit AFTER cleaning

  • Paul Cronshaw - 05-18-2022
    Unripe pears

  • Paul Cronshaw - 05-18-2022
    Lower Campsite

  • Paul Cronshaw - 05-18-2022
    Upper campsite

  • Paul Cronshaw - 05-18-2022
    Lower pool with clean water

  • Paul Cronshaw - 08-04-2022
    Forbush Spring

  • Paul Cronshaw - 08-04-2022
    Forbush Sunset

  • Paul Cronshaw - 12-22-2022
    Gidney Creek

  • Paul Cronshaw - 12-22-2022
    Lower Forbush Campsite

  • Paul Cronshaw - 12-22-2022
    Upper Forbush Campsite

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 04-02-2023

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 04-02-2023

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 04-02-2023

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 04-02-2023

  • Alex Siapkas - 07-22-2023

  • Alex Siapkas - 07-22-2023

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 11-12-2023
    The crew headed down towards Forbush.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 11-12-2023
    The two new trail signs at Blue Canyon / Cold Spring junction.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 11-12-2023
    New sign at Forbush Camp.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 11-12-2023
    The new pit toilet. There is a sign pointing towards it.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 11-12-2023
    Cleaned up fire ring, campsite and freshly re-painted table at Forbush.

  • Nate Kirchhofer - 10-05-2024
    Water flowing

  • Nate Kirchhofer - 10-05-2024
    Pears

  • Nate Kirchhofer - 10-05-2024
    Tons of skunkbush sumac lining the trail. It looks like poison oak with 3 leaves but has a large middle leaf. No technu needed! The PO is around the upper camp large oak and on trail to spring.

  • Nate Kirchhofer - 10-05-2024
    Vibes are immac

  • Nate Kirchhofer - 10-05-2024
    Upper Campsite

  • Nate Kirchhofer - 10-05-2024
    Trailhead

Submitted Camp Reports

Forbush Camp Survey - 10-23-2024 - by Dale Pearson
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 10-23-2024
Surveyor Name:Dale Pearson
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 10-13-2024 - by Colin Princi
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 10-13-2024
Surveyor Name:Colin Princi
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Consistent flow, starting to get quite low though. A couple nice pools downstream on the trail.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 10-05-2024 - by Nate Kirchhofer
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 10-05-2024
Surveyor Name:Nate Kirchhofer
Camp Description:Pears are ripe, trail is great shape
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:Dry, 90s
Images:

Water flowing

Pears


Tons of skunkbush sumac lining the trail. It looks like poison oak with 3 leaves but has a large middle leaf. No technu needed! The PO is around the upper camp large oak and on trail to spring.

Vibes are immac


Upper Campsite
Forbush Camp Survey - 09-08-2024 - by Andy H.
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 09-08-2024
Surveyor Name:Andy H.
Camp Description:Short day visit from Cold Springs Saddle. Trail was a little overgrown in places, but easily possible even in shorts. Filled my BeFree water bottle in the creek without any trouble. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Slow flowing, but more than a trickle.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-02-2024 - by Jess Cooper
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-02-2024
Surveyor Name:Jess Cooper
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:good flow at the creek
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-12-2023 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-12-2023
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:LPFA partnered with Troop 4 to complete an Eagle Project at Forbush Camp. Work completed included:

  • Installing pit toilet
  • Sanded and painted all tables
  • Cleaned and reconfigured fire rings for fire safety
  • Installed signs at Forbush as well as at junction of Blue Canyon and Cold Spring Trails
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Images:

The crew headed down towards Forbush.

The two new trail signs at Blue Canyon / Cold Spring junction.


New sign at Forbush Camp.

The new pit toilet. There is a sign pointing towards it.


Cleaned up fire ring, campsite and freshly re-painted table at Forbush.
Forbush Camp Survey - 07-22-2023 - by Alex Siapkas
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 07-22-2023
Surveyor Name:Alex Siapkas
Camp Description:First campsite is nice and clean second campsite has lots of toilet paper all over possibly from an animal digging it up. plenty of flowing water and lots of bugs.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:hot 90
Images:


Forbush Camp Survey - 07-02-2023 - by mwb
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 07-02-2023
Surveyor Name:mwb
Camp Description:Creek is flowing well, campsites in great condition. Lots of biting flies.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Clean, fast flow 6 inches deep in pools
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-02-2023 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-02-2023
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Flowing. Some deep pools at camp. Consistently 4-6” deep. 2 sites are in good condition. Shovel, rake, stove, and grill accessories. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Clear and flowing
Weather Conditions:
Images:





Forbush Camp Survey - 03-19-2023 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-19-2023
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-22-2022 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-22-2022
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Camp maintenance: Raked up leaves at both campsites, cleaned and buried ashes from the two fire pits.  Please use the rakes and shovels to maintain a clean campsite.  Thanks
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Gidney Creek is flowing with small pools from recent rain storm
Weather Conditions:Low 40s night temps and mid 70s during day. Overcast and Drizzle
Images:

Gidney Creek

Lower Forbush Campsite


Upper Forbush Campsite
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-09-2022 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-09-2022
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Creek bed that routes around campsite is dry. Cement well just below E. Camino Cielo is also dry.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 08-04-2022 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 08-04-2022
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Visited Forbush to check on water and camp conditions. Creek is dry at the two campsites but there are few pools with clean water 100 yards up Gidney Creek. Raked up the leaves the two campsites. Flies are still present so a headnet is advisable. Watched a beautiful sunset. James Wapotich has written wonderful histories about Forbush camp in two blog posts (Copy and paste URL into Browser):
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Small pools of clean water flowing above upper campsite. Gidney Creek is dry at campsites.
Weather Conditions:80s Daytime temps and low 70's at night. Sunny
Images:

Forbush Spring

Forbush Sunset
Forbush Camp Survey - 05-18-2022 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-18-2022
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:I stayed at the upper campsite. The tiny gnats are out in force so a head net is recommended. There are unripe pears growing on the two pear trees. I raked the leaves/sticks and cleaned out the fire pits at both campsites for fire safety and maintaining a clean campsite standard.  There are two pools with clean water; one above the upper campsite and the other below the lower campsite. 
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Gidley Creek has trickle of water flowing in and out of the two pools located above and below camps
Weather Conditions:Lower 80s and Sunny with some wind
Images:

Unripe pears

Lower Campsite


Upper campsite

Lower pool with clean water
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-30-2022 - by Addison Jerlow
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-30-2022
Surveyor Name:Addison Jerlow
Camp Description:Easy access with decent flow at both main camps
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:flowing with a few deeper pools
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-17-2022 - by Susie T
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-17-2022
Surveyor Name:Susie T
Camp Description: Trail in excellent shape. Meadow with good grass.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:flowing at the far camp and upstream, dry sections
Weather Conditions:70 degrees, clear
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-06-2022 - by Stephen S
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-06-2022
Surveyor Name:Stephen S
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-02-2022 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-02-2022
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 01-16-2022 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-16-2022
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Stayed at Forbush Camp one night to perform camp maintenance.  Cleaned the two fire pits with help of Troop 33 scouts.  Cleared slide on trail above camp. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Flowing with small pools
Weather Conditions:Cloudy with day temps in 50s and night temps in 40s
Images:

Upper Camp Cleaned fire pit

Lower Camp fire pit BEFORE cleaning


Lower Camp fire pit AFTER cleaning
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-27-2021 - by Troop 37 - Jonathan Rocque
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-27-2021
Surveyor Name:Troop 37 - Jonathan Rocque
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Great clear water flow. The waterfall was spilling further up the canyon.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-27-2021 - by James Wapotich
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-27-2021
Surveyor Name:James Wapotich
Camp Description:Dry at camp, but a trickle of water can be found upstream from the first camp, just past where the use trail gives out
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-06-2021 - by Donnie T
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-06-2021
Surveyor Name:Donnie T
Camp Description:Squat toilet in good working condition. Can confirm.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:Lots of stars
Forbush Camp Survey - 06-21-2021 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 06-21-2021
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:To celebrate Father's Day and Summer Solstice, I painted the two tables.  Brought in a new rake to replace the two that are broken. Lots of bugs.  
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Creek is dry at campsites but there is flowing water with reliable pool located 300 feet above the first campsite.
Weather Conditions:Upper 80s and Sunny with some wind
Images:

Newly painted table
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-18-2021 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-18-2021
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:2 ft deep pool, trickling just downstream of second campsite
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-11-2021 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-11-2021
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-10-2021 - by Philip D Dracht
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-10-2021
Surveyor Name:Philip D Dracht
Camp Description:Camp was a lot of fun.  Had picnic table, fire (with grate), and some logs cut for sitting.  Had shovel and rake in upper camp.  Someone had left behind a stash of food (including mozzarella cheese sticks!) in bear sack. Not sure what that was about.  Wouldn't be surprised if it is still there. Creek initially looked dry and someone said it was, but we found the creek running higher up the creekbed.  
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Creek is dry in some places close to the camp, but flowing higher up the creekbed.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-28-2021 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-28-2021
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-28-2021 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-28-2021
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:The camp was in great shape- someone has left rakes and other tools- I assume to help clear the firepit from debris. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:A light flow, but a flow nonetheless
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-14-2021 - by Bryant K.
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-14-2021
Surveyor Name:Bryant K.
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 01-30-2021 - by Hogg Wild
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-30-2021
Surveyor Name:Hogg Wild
Camp Description:Lots of dead poison oak, and pulled 4 ticks off my dog and 1 off myself
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Creeks are flowing, pools are filled after the rain
Weather Conditions:35-40 degrees at night, very dewy in the AM
Forbush Camp Survey - 01-30-2021 - by Antonio Calderon
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-30-2021
Surveyor Name:Antonio Calderon
Camp Description:Camp is in fine shape
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Good water flow
Weather Conditions:45F sunny
Forbush Camp Survey - 01-09-2021 - by Thomas Everest
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-09-2021
Surveyor Name:Thomas Everest
Camp Description:
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:A few standing puddles, mostly dry
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-03-2020 - by John M OConnell
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-03-2020
Surveyor Name:John M OConnell
Camp Description:Camp was in good condition, no signage though which was would have been nice.
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Water was dry at camp but a few minutes up stream there was a trickle
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-01-2020 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-01-2020
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Several other hikers passed by and two other parties of campers stayed the night. Both established campsites have a shovel and rake. No bugs. Creek was bone dry.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:Very cold at night, but not below freezing. Nice gentle breeze throughout the day and evening.
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-06-2020 - by Dogger
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-06-2020
Surveyor Name:Dogger
Camp Description:Camp was very neat and tidy. Thanks to whomever came before me. Enjoyed a nice rest and snack at the camp on my way back up from the river.
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:Sunny, breezy, 70s, beautiful day
Images:

Harvest time at Forbush.
Forbush Camp Survey - 08-29-2020 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 08-29-2020
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Went down to the camp in the afternoon.

Got there in pretty good time (1hr?) but when we got there the amount of flies/mosquitos were unreal. Since you're not allowed to start an actual fire due to the fire danger (don't do it!) we decided to head back. Not worth camping around 100+ bugs swarming your head while trying to eat, rest, etc. Thankfully the hike up was not too bad.

May come back in the winter when the bugs are gone.
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:80/90s
Forbush Camp Survey - 08-10-2020 - by Michael C
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 08-10-2020
Surveyor Name:Michael C
Camp Description:The car themometer read 85F at 4PM in Cold Spring Saddle. We started down around 4:10 and made camp around 4:50. There were few truly exposed sections going down at this time of day, which was really nice. Temperature at camp was comfortable. The creek is still trickling, more than enough to collect water for filtering. A couple krusty dudes and a dog occupied the site on the creek, so we set up by the main site. For some reason, these guys thought it was okay to have a fire, despite all the warnings and bad fire conditions -- maybe to ward off the repellant-resistant flies? Lots of spooky rustling through the night kept my partner up, so if you're sensitive to this type of thing, I would recommend earplugs or a podcast. The morning sun cast over Forbush canyon was stunning. The ascent is ~1000ft elevation gain over ~2 miles and the trail is much more exposed during the morning. If I were to do it again, I would wait until the late afternoon if possible. Overall, will camp again, hopefully before the creek dries up.
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Gidney is definitely slowing down, but still manageable for filtering. There are a few steps upstream that are flowing and clear.
Weather Conditions:
Images:




Forbush Camp Survey - 07-01-2020 - by Martina G
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 07-01-2020
Surveyor Name:Martina G
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:getting lower, but still good to filter
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 06-13-2020 - by Sarah W
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 06-13-2020
Surveyor Name:Sarah W
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 05-09-2020 - by M Schless
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-09-2020
Surveyor Name:M Schless
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Flowing water ~3" deep at first camp
Weather Conditions:80s during the day
Forbush Camp Survey - 05-03-2020 - by Shaddus Maximus
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-03-2020
Surveyor Name:Shaddus Maximus
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Given the volume of water in Gidney Creek, should have good flow for the next few months.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-17-2020 - by Nathan Camp
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-17-2020
Surveyor Name:Nathan Camp
Camp Description:We spent a socially distanced single night in camp. Weather at the trail head was 80 with high winds, but as we descended the trail to camp,the weather became more and more pleasant. Night temps were very comfortable. I slept in a single layer with a 30 degree quilt fully open. Morning was glorious with temps rising to 70s by 8 am. Lots of green grass still in the campsite. Lots of toads visited us throughout the campsite all night long. One baby rattlesnake was well camouflaged. Most of our party inadvertently stepped right over him. My 11 year old spotted him, and we encouraged the rattler to find refuge off trail.  
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Still a solid flow of water. Water in pools near first camp were at least 6 inches deep.
Weather Conditions:Sundowners in the afternoons. Day weather - sunny and 70s to 80s. Night, clear and high 50s to low 60s.
Forbush Camp Survey - 01-20-2020 - by Ryan
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-20-2020
Surveyor Name:Ryan
Camp Description:Will definitely return for overnight trips in the near future. Headed further up to blue canyon tomorrow tomorrow. 
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:Dry in most places but stagnant pools could be found below the first camp in parts of the creek.
Weather Conditions:60’s and windy
Images:

Forbush Camp Survey - 01-12-2020 - by Antonio Calderon
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-12-2020
Surveyor Name:Antonio Calderon
Camp Description:Camp in great shape with tables and food size fire rings. Water is flowing right next to camp 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Antoniocalderon64@yahoo.com
Weather Conditions:Low 60s sunny and windy
Images:


Forbush Camp Survey - 12-21-2019 - by Jay Wright
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-21-2019
Surveyor Name:Jay Wright
Camp Description:Water only available near the sites further away from Cold Spring trail. The first stream access closest to the trail is dry.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Shallow but flowing water 4-6" in some places
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-14-2019 - by Steve Schott
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-14-2019
Surveyor Name:Steve Schott
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Stream dry at camp but running cold and clear a short distance upstream.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 05-30-2019 - by Rudi Huntelmann
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-30-2019
Surveyor Name:Rudi Huntelmann
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Clean water
Weather Conditions:Clear and sunny 65
Forbush Camp Survey - 05-27-2019 - by Jonathan Rocque
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-27-2019
Surveyor Name:Jonathan Rocque
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Strong water flow through the creek
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-20-2019 - by Anthony Vasquez
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-20-2019
Surveyor Name:Anthony Vasquez
Camp Description:Large camp with spots for 3-4 tents with plenty of privacy. Huge pear tree in full bloom right now. nice fire ring, nice tables and stumps to sit at. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:A few pools around 1-2 ft deep. About 40 yards from camp. Some poison oak
Weather Conditions:
Images:

Nice table, fire pit, shovel and rake

A nice tent pad over under a pine


Good stumps for sitting

Huge pear tree in full bloom


Stream
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-17-2019 - by Jonathan Rocque
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-17-2019
Surveyor Name:Jonathan Rocque
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Creek is flowing heavily with a waterfall halfway up toward the Cold Spring Saddle
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 01-20-2019 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-20-2019
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:After the recent rains, the Gidley Creek that flows through Forbush is flowing nicely. Some dead alders have fallen into the creek at the lower campsite.  Nice to see everything becoming green at this time of the year.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Clean, flowing water with shallow pools
Weather Conditions:70s and Sunny
Images:

Gidley Creek at Forbush
Forbush Camp Survey - 10-20-2018 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 10-20-2018
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water!
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 09-23-2018 - by Telford Work
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 09-23-2018
Surveyor Name:Telford Work
Camp Description:Both Forbush campsites are in good shape but dry. See below for a snapshot of the spring, which is 200 yards north of the campsite following the creek. Water is covered in water striders and needs filtering, but trickling into several additional pools below the source.
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Dry at the camp; trickle at the spring 200 yards north.
Weather Conditions:Dry, 90s.
Images:

Forbush Camp Survey - 05-27-2018 - by Phil
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-27-2018
Surveyor Name:Phil
Camp Description:Camp in good shape.

Overrun with foxtails

 only saw one tick, but lots of flies and mosquitos.

There must be a bee's nest close by, there was a swarm of bees going to and from the wildflowers.  The bees were not aggressive, I was able to safely walk through the swarm.

Wildflowers were beautiful, with lots of variety and some large ones!.
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:not moving, puddles of water most people would not want to drink
Weather Conditions:Dry and sunny during the day ~ 75f / dry cold night ~47f
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-29-2018 - by Michael
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-29-2018
Surveyor Name:Michael
Camp Description:Trail is good into Forbush. There is some growth stretching across some portions of the trail, which might be the source of the numerous ticks we found on ourselves at the end of the hike, but not enough to ever hide the trail. Not too much of a hassle to remove them as well.

Some previous hikers left a great pile of firewood for us. Thank you very much to those who did that. We swept up some kindling for the next hikers in return and gathered a few scraps of wood as well. There was also a bottle of Jameson in the tree that we dared to take a swig of. Thanks as well for that. 

The shovels and rakes are very useful to have on site. We also found a tarp in the tree in great condition. This would be useful if we got any rain or wind; we left it there for the next group who comes through. 

No animal sightings, although we could hear coyotes yipping far away at night. We strung our food up, but it didn't seem like any animals came through. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Ankle deep at most parts near the camp, running smoothly
Weather Conditions:80 F, sunny
Forbush Camp Survey - 09-11-2017 - by Jared Bresee
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 09-11-2017
Surveyor Name:Jared Bresee
Camp Description:Everything at the camp is in good shape, no water anywhere though. 
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No flow, completely dry
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 07-30-2017 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 07-30-2017
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Both campsites are in good condition. Pink tape in fire pits indicates Level III fire restrictions. Large oak tree covers trail 100 yards before junction to camp.
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Stagnant pool below lower camp, pools above the upper camp.
Weather Conditions:80's, Sunny
Images:

Lower Campsite

Pools with trickling water up creek from upper campsite
Forbush Camp Survey - 07-02-2017 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 07-02-2017
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Camp sites in great shape! Lots of bugs around. The trail in is a little overgrown but still completely accessible. Some poison oak along trail. 
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:2 in deep, mostly dry
Weather Conditions:
Images:


Forbush Camp Survey - 05-13-2017 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-13-2017
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:During our descent along the trail to Forbrush we heard frequent gunshots over a duration of about 1/2 hour, and could see two people out on the flats.  Firing had ceased by the time we got to the picnic table at the Forbush campsite.  On the path towards the creek there is a rusted metal beam standing by the trailside.  It has scratched onto it "Beware of Dog" and some other lettering.  Beyond that we could see a large blue tent (or Tarp construction) and a woman nearby in the shade under the trees.  She told us that her dog was "bad with other dogs but OK with people".  The vibe was pretty weird, especially after all of the gunshots, so we turned around and left.

On the plus side: the trail from Camino Cielo to Forbrush is mostly in quite good condition.  Lots of wildflowers, lots of butterflies.  The trail out of Forbrush towards Blue Canyon is pretty overgrown.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-16-2017 - by Donald T
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-16-2017
Surveyor Name:Donald T
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-19-2017 - by WayneG
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-19-2017
Surveyor Name:WayneG
Camp Description:

Both camps in good condition. Crew worked area recently cutting downed trees. Large wood pile at the 2nd camp site. A lot of blackflies in the area. Apple trees in bloom.

Trail in was in decent shape with only a few wash out spots. Trail into Blue Canyon is overgrown and washed out. Only ventured about a mile and turned back.

Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Very Good flow
Weather Conditions:Cloudy with partial sun
Images:

Good Flow

2nd Campsite


1st Campsite

Firewood for the future


Apple Tree in Bloom
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-04-2017 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-04-2017
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Both campsites were clean and intact. We dug out the ashes in rock fire pits. 

Found the old icebox stove in the bushes and placed in on the cement foundation in the lower campsite. 

We repaired slide on trail above campsite and one of the many slides on the switchback section of the West Blue Canyon Trail 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:The best flow we have had in a long time.
Weather Conditions:Sunny, temps in high upper 60s; Rain on Sunday
Images:

Upper campsite

Lower campsite


Water flowing in Gidley Creek.
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-25-2017 - by Michel Giroux
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-25-2017
Surveyor Name:Michel Giroux
Camp Description:Both camps are clean and in good condition.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:There is a good flow of clear water.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-12-2017 - by Michael S
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-12-2017
Surveyor Name:Michael S
Camp Description:Got caught with an unexpected and unforecasted rain through the afternoon and evening, but cleared by 9 PM or so. Full moon was phenomenal and lit up the whole camp. Water flowing at both the upper and lower campsite. Lots of food scraps around the upper site. Looks like people were just scattering their leftovers instead of packing out or at least burying appropriately.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Steady strong flow at both camps
Weather Conditions:Rain Saturday night. High 30s-low 40s overnight. Sunday was sunny in the upper 60s.
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-05-2017 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-05-2017
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:Cedar trees were planted to replace the recently fallen dead trees at Forbush Camp.  Legend has it, as per James Wapotich, that the original cedars were planted at Forbush by kids at Camp Conestoga.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Water is flowing well.
Weather Conditions:
Images:

Forbush Camp Survey - 01-28-2017 - by Day Tripper
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-28-2017
Surveyor Name:Day Tripper
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 01-16-2017 - by Shaddus Maximus
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 01-16-2017
Surveyor Name:Shaddus Maximus
Camp Description:
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Good clear pools of water to filter from with a small amount of flow.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-06-2016 - by Shaddus Maximus
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-06-2016
Surveyor Name:Shaddus Maximus
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Dry, dry, bone dry. Last week's rain immediately soaked into the earth.
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-30-2016 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-30-2016
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Both campsites were in good condition.  There is a leaf rake and shovel.
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Several pools of clean water below lower campsite
Weather Conditions:Sunny, temps in high 70's
Images:

Pool of clean water below the lower campsite.
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-23-2016 - by James Wapotich
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-23-2016
Surveyor Name:James Wapotich
Camp Description:Still some water flowing just below the second campsite
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-16-2016 - by Matt Swider
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-16-2016
Surveyor Name:Matt Swider
Camp Description:Trail to Forbush is failrly clear, but one area of poison oak on the trail.  We hiked in at dark under a 1/2 full moon.  Got water from the lower site (which was already occupied) in the dark, so did not full scope out the water scene.  Did observe no water in the creek adjacent to the upper camp, clear trickle with 6" to 8" pools at the lower camp.  Hike 4/17 down to the Santa Ynez river, which was about 10' across and 4-6" deep.  The canyon was beautiful, but lots of poison oak to walk through.  Managed to clean it off at home as we have not gotten any reaction 3 days later.  Get out there before it gets any hotter and the water is all gone!!
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:No water at the upper camp, clear trickle with 6" to 8" pools at the lower camp
Weather Conditions:warm and clear
Forbush Camp Survey - 04-09-2016 - by Michael S
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 04-09-2016
Surveyor Name:Michael S
Camp Description:Camped in the rain for a quick Friday, post work trip. Couple bobcats calling from opposite ends of the meadow. Creek had 6-8" deep puddles with trickle when we got there Friday. Overnight rain increased to a more moderate flow in the creek Saturday morning.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Creek had low flow by lower camp. Plenty to filter.
Weather Conditions:Rain
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-23-2016 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-23-2016
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:pools of flowing water 6-8 inches deep
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 03-12-2016 - by Anonymous Backpacker
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 03-12-2016
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Backpacker
Camp Description:
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Shallow pools of water with slight trickle between pools - could pump to treat
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-15-2016 - by Shaddus Maximus
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-15-2016
Surveyor Name:Shaddus Maximus
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-07-2016 - by James
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-07-2016
Surveyor Name:James
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Creek & Buckley Spring dry
Weather Conditions:Nice
Forbush Camp Survey - 02-07-2016 - by James
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 02-07-2016
Surveyor Name:James
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Creek & Buckley Spring dry
Weather Conditions:Nice
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-27-2015 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-27-2015
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:no water in the creek on the way to forbush and no water at blue canyon camp
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-21-2015 - by Hiker Tim
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-21-2015
Surveyor Name:Hiker Tim
Camp Description:Both camps were in use and in good condition. We ended up camping by the big oak tree in the meadow. 
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:Clear skis, high 70s, overnight low 50
Images:

One of the Forbush fruit trees with Fall color.

Our camp


Fossil on the trail to Mono

Fall color on the trail to Forbush
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-03-2015 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-03-2015
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:Report from Ranger Rik:

- No water at Forbush
- Trail down from Camino in great shape
- Some trash left at camp
- People ignoring the no campfires signs
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-21-2014 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-21-2014
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Not a steady flow of water but plenty of large, clear pools of water in the creek next to both established campsites at Forbush.
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Clear pools of water in creek
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 12-18-2014 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 12-18-2014
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:There was a little water in the drainage at the junction of the Blue Canyon and Cold Spring Trails.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 11-05-2014 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 11-05-2014
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:Camp and trail in good shape, but no water out there.  

Photos by Ranger Rik
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Images:

Trailhead Sign

Forbush Camp
Forbush Camp Survey - 10-18-2014 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 10-18-2014
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:Camp was clean
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water
Weather Conditions:
Forbush Camp Survey - 05-20-2014 - by Hike Los Padres
Link: Forbush Camp
Date: 05-20-2014
Surveyor Name:Hike Los Padres
Camp Description:Camp looked great!  We were on an LPFA trail project and stopped by for a visit.
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:There was one small pool located above the camp up the creek. Was not flowing.
Weather Conditions:

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Last Updated: Friday, January 20, 2023

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