Sespe Proposed Wilderness Additions
Managing agency: Los Padres National Forest
Size: Approximately 14,350 acres.
Location : Ventura County, between Hwy 33 and Sespe Wilderness, north of Ojai and the existing Sespe Wilderness.
How to get there: From Hwy 5, travel west on Frazier Park Rd to Lockwood Valley Rd,
travel south to Mutau and Forest Service road 7N03.
Description:
- Outstanding scenery and solitude
- The Beaver proposed wilderness addition supports a population of arroyo toad
- Key Santa Barbara County watershed that feeds the Sespe River and Piru Creek, both potential wild and scenic rivers
- Previously recommended for wilderness designation
- An Area of High Ecological Significance
- Scenic qualities: Open forests, fascinating sandstone/shale formations
- Temperate forests of Jeffrey and pinyon pine
The Fishbowls proposed addition to the Sespe Wilderness, a very wild area, is a haven for wildlife including black bear, deer and mountain lion. Within Fishbowls and its wide meandering valley is Piru Creek and its deep, fish-inhabited
pools. The area is popular with hikers and equestrians and is a primary access route to the Sespe
Wilderness. The trail runs along side Piru Creek, which is eligible for wild and scenic designation.
The Thorn and Stonehouse proposed additions feature many north facing canyons with numerous springs and the
headwaters of Mutau Creek. Elevations of 4000' to 7000' support a temperate forest dominated by
Jeffrey pines, pinyons, sagebrush and rabbitbush with important riparian communities alongside
streams. Chaparral consisting of scrub oak, ceanothus and manzanita dominate south facing
slopes. The area contains many fascinating geological formations caused by dramatic uplifting of
sandstone and shale beds.
All three areas have been recommended for wilderness designation in the past.
The Chorro Grande and Boulder proposed additions lie on opposite sides of Pine Mountain's east/west
ridgeline and both border the existing Sespe Wilderness. Chorro Grande is bordered by the Sespe
potential wild and scenic river. Both areas support a wide array of species and are popular
backcountry recreation areas. The views as you climb the Boulder Canyon trail become more
spectacular as you gain elevation.
The Beaver proposed addition contains both a potential wild and scenic river (the Sespe) as well as a significant population of arroyo toad.
For additional information, please contact:
Erin Duffy
California Wild Heritage Campaign
Phone: (805) 564-2460
Email: calwild_sb@yahoo.com
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Just three miles off of Interstate 80, 
