NOTICE: Big Creek is currently inaccessible to non-residents and non-site-dependent essential work.

There are two closures on Highway 1 impacting Big Creek's entrances (Big Creek Canyon at Mile Marker 28 and Circle M Ranch at Mile Marker 27) . Only resident and essential work-related access is allowed to Big Creek. Please submit a reservation and contact the reserve director to coordinate access for site-dependent work purposes. The Regents Slide located at MM 27.6, between the two entrance gates has blocked the highway and there is no estimate for its completion.

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 cabins, one campground 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).

Apply To Use the Reserve Here

Docent-led Tours have been postponed until Highway 1 opens