The gentle coastal breeze blows through the canyon, and as it move sways the tall blades of grass strewn throughout the path, and quickens the leaves of the might oak and quiet sycamore. As the sun pours through this long and narrow canyon, you walk on as the shadows grow longer by the minute, and looking northward you will see a block of rugged coastal peaks and valleys. This is the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness; one of the most lonely and unfrequented, yet accessible wilderness areas around. It is one of a select group of coastal wildernesses on the West Coast, in fact it is the only coastal wilderness in Southern California. This moderate trip to Fisherman's Camp is a wonderful teaser to the quaint beauty to be found deeper within.
Stats:
Category: Moderate
Miles: 7.2
Elevation Gain: 1,200' (Most on the return trip up)
Location: Cleveland National Forest, San Mateo Canyon Wilderness
The Trail: From the trailhead, take the path north, as it rapidly descends into upper Tenaja Canyon through dense chaparral. Soon, the trail enters the canyon floor and is surrounded by old-growth oak woodlands and lush riparian vegetation. After contouring here, you will gain the north wall of the canyon and continue here for the larger portion of the trip. The trail is a bit of a rollar coaster, so you will be having some ups and downs both on route to your destination, and returning from it. In spring, with the fresh greenery around and wildflowers about, you will be hard pressed to think of a more lovely place to be. Nonetheless, the path is quite overgrown, with brush constantly touching you. Thus take care of ticks hitching a ride on you, and snakes hiding in the high grass. After crossing the usually dry creekbed a couple of times, and switchbacking down from the cliff-side you will arrive at Fisherman's Camp 3.6 miles from the start. Camping is allowed here only by permit available at the Trabuco Ranger Station in Corona. You can continue your trip, if time permits, to San Mateo Canyon proper or to Tenaja Falls, both adding about 4 miles. Return the way you came...except all up hill.
Riverside County, CA, Hiked 4/17/2016, Adventure Pass Required. No Wilderness Permit needed for day hiking.
 |
| Beginning |
 |
| Canyon Floor |
 |
| More Canyon Floor |
 |
| High grass all over |
 |
| Rare, southern California Dudleyas |
 |
| On the cliff-side |
 |
| Lower Tenaja Canyon |
 |
| Ferns! |
 |
| Fisherman's Camp |
The gentle coastal breeze blows through the canyon, and as it move sways the tall blades of grass strewn throughout the path, and quickens the leaves of the might oak and quiet sycamore. As the sun pours through this long and narrow canyon, you walk on as the shadows grow longer by the minute, and looking northward you will see a block of rugged coastal peaks and valleys. This is the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness; one of the most lonely and unfrequented, yet accessible wilderness areas around. It is one of a select group of coastal wildernesses on the West Coast, in fact it is the only coastal wilderness in Southern California. This moderate trip to Fisherman's Camp is a wonderful teaser to the quaint beauty to be found deeper within. 
The Trail: From the trailhead, take the path north, as it rapidly descends into upper Tenaja Canyon through dense chaparral. Soon, the trail enters the canyon floor and is surrounded by old-growth oak woodlands and lush riparian vegetation. After contouring here, you will gain the north wall of the canyon and continue here for the larger portion of the trip. The trail is a bit of a rollar coaster, so you will be having some ups and downs both on route to your destination, and returning from it. In spring, with the fresh greenery around and wildflowers about, you will be hard pressed to think of a more lovely place to be. Nonetheless, the path is quite overgrown, with brush constantly touching you. Thus take care of ticks hitching a ride on you, and snakes hiding in the high grass. After crossing the usually dry creekbed a couple of times, and switchbacking down from the cliff-side you will arrive at Fisherman's Camp 3.6 miles from the start. Camping is allowed here only by permit available at the Trabuco Ranger Station in Corona. You can continue your trip, if time permits, to San Mateo Canyon proper or to Tenaja Falls, both adding about 4 miles. Return the way you came...except all up hill. 
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