Cleveland National Forest had its basis in the 50,000 acre Trabuco Caņon Forest Reserve in the Santa Ana Mountains, created by President
Harrison in February 1893. In 1899, the Trabuco Reserve was more than doubled in response to a petition sent to the General
Land Office by residents near Trabuco Canyon. In 1908, President Roosevelt combined the Trabuco Reserves with other southern
California reserves to form the new Cleveland National Forest. Today the Cleveland National Forest consists of approximately
424,000 acres of forest land, of which approximately 135,000 acres (or 210 square miles) are in Orange County.
Entrance by foot or bike is free for day use. Parking vehicles requires Adventure Passes.
Bring water! Water fountains and flush
toilets are available only in developed areas such as campgrounds. Streams and creeks are unreliable water sources
Dogs
are allowed but must be leashed at all times.
NOTE: Portions of the Cleveland National Forest are open to hunting in the pursuit of birds and game according to the current
season schedule and hunting regulations set by the California Department of Fish and Game. The only designated area within Orange
County is in the San Mateo Wilderness Area. Click here for more information.
The North
Main Divide Road traverses north and south along the upper reaches of the Santa Ana Mountains. Many of the trails
listed here hook up to the dirt road, which is open to vehicles.
Orange County and its National Forest
Trail Maps
Reference
Key Info
Topographical Maps
Trails Near Trabuco Canyon
Trails Near Ortega Highway
Trails Near Silverado Canyon
North Main Divide Road
OC Explorer