Big Creek Natural Reserve
Using The Reserve
NOTICE: Big Creek is currently inaccessible to non-residents and non-site-dependent essential work.
Big Creek Reserve burned in the Dolan Fire December 2020 and experienced debris flows in January 2021 which destroyed campgrounds, roads, and trails. Through 2021-22 some repairs were made so that research and coursework had resumed. Severe rain in the winter of 2023-24 reversed much of those repairs and washed out the canyon road. The crew has been working hard to recover our capacity to support research and teaching. We have our two cabins, two campgrounds and a core number of roads and trails open. Please inquire for a status update on access and facilities availability.
Visiting Big Creek Reserve requires an approved application for research or educational purposes. Applications are submitted through the UC Natural Reserve System Reservations System (RAMS).
Natural Reserves News
Trail Crew Campaign
The Dolan Fire and subsequent winter storms wreaked havoc on Big Creek’s trail system. A large proportion of what was a 22-mile trail network has been damaged. Our trails provide important access to the biological, geological, and cultural diversity that are vital for learning and research. Please help us hire a trail crew by giving directly to the effort now. Our fundraising goal for this campaign is $115,000.
Make a Donation
If you would like to give to help with the important recovery process at Big Creek Reserve, please visit our Giving Page for instructions on how to make a donation.
Shortcuts to Local Conditions
Real-time Data:
Gatehouse – Sea Level
Whale Point – 500′ Elevation
Highlands Peak – 2,450′ Elevation
Mining Ridge – 4,200′ Elevation. 24 Hour Central Coast Precipitation Map
Caltrans
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