Skip to main content
FacilityFacilityRecreation.gov

La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead

Los Olivos, California · Santa Barbara County · Facility

La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead is located approximately 12.5 miles from the time that one turns onto Figueroa Mountain Road off of Highway 154. You will find the trailhead .5 miles past the Figueroa Station. Parking is available on the right side of the road on the dirt turnout, right before Tunnell Ranch Road. This park…

Advertisement
34.73580, -119.99990
Open in OpenStreetMap

About La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead

La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead is located approximately 12.5 miles from the time that one turns onto Figueroa Mountain Road off of Highway 154. You will find the trailhead .5 miles past the Figueroa Station. Parking is available on the right side of the road on the dirt turnout, right before Tunnell Ranch Road. This parking area can accommodate between 5 to 6 vehicles. This trail is approximately 3 miles and leads to a primitive campsite known as Ballard. This trail is very popular during spring, as the wildflowers are spectacular during this time of year. Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. This 5 mile trail is steep and goes into a canyon bottom where a spring feeds a cold stream. When you get to the bottom, you'll find the remains of an old CCC cabin. Ballard trail camp is in the canyon bottom. An easy hike down, hard work coming back. This trail is most popular in fall and spring. Summer finds the exposed hillsides not very inviting.

Plan Your Visit to La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead

Heading to La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead?

No central reservation system listed for La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/252825) for the latest entry policy and availability.