Skip to main content
Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Saucito Ranch

New Cuyama, California · San Luis Obispo County

The El Saucito Ranch house is the oldest standing house in the Carrizo Plain National Monument, dating back to circa 1878. This is the only ranch house in the monument to have been occupied from the pioneer period to modern day. Although the house changed ownership a number of times, it remained mostly occupied through…

Advertisement
35.17550, -119.88970
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Saucito Ranch

The El Saucito Ranch house is the oldest standing house in the Carrizo Plain National Monument, dating back to circa 1878. This is the only ranch house in the monument to have been occupied from the pioneer period to modern day. Although the house changed ownership a number of times, it remained mostly occupied throughout it's history. The last time it was owner occupied was in 1966. In the years that followed the ranch house was used by caretakers or leased to ranchers intermittently until the ranch was vacated in 1984. The first post office on the Carrizo Plain was founded in 1882 and was located at the El Saucito Ranch house. There is an interpretative trail at the ranch, and each April a guided tour is conducted on the ranch. Reservations for the guided tour can be booked at www.recreation.gov. . Get permits for Guided and Self-Guided Tours Download the Carrizo Plain National Monument Recreation Map and Guide 2018 Wildflower Watch

How to Get There

Once on Carrizo Plain National Monument, continue on Soda Lake Road until you arrive at sign for Goodwin Education Center, turn at sign and contine for 1/2 mile to the education center. If you continue on road you will come to a locked gate. Road leads to Saucito Ranch, however vehicles are only allowed during guided tours.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Saucito Ranch

Heading to Saucito Ranch? 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 Saucito Ranch?

No central reservation system listed for Saucito Ranch. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14800) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Saucito Ranch?

Once on Carrizo Plain National Monument, continue on Soda Lake Road until you arrive at sign for Goodwin Education Center, turn at sign and contine for 1/2 mile to the education center. If you continue on road you will come to a locked gate. Road leads to Saucito Ranch, however vehicles are only allowed during guided tours.

How do I contact Saucito Ranch?

You can reach the park at phone: 661-391-6000 or email: BLM_CA_Web_BK@blm.gov.