Facility · California ·
Managed by the USDA Forest Service
Los Padres National Forest (NF) · Open Access
La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead is located approximately 12.5 miles from the time that one turns onto Figueroa Mountain Road off of Highway 154. You will find the trailhead .5 miles past the Figueroa Station. Parking is available on the right side of the road on the dirt turnout, right before Tunnell Ranch Road. This parking area can accommodate between 5 to 6 vehicles. This trail is approximately 3 miles and leads to a primitive campsite known as Ballard. This trail is very popular during spring, as the wildflowers are spectacular during this time of year.
Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. This 5 mile trail is steep and goes into a canyon bottom where a spring feeds a cold stream. When you get to the bottom, you'll find the remains of an old CCC cabin. Ballard trail camp is in the canyon bottom. An easy hike down, hard work coming back. This trail is most popular in fall and spring. Summer finds the exposed hillsides not very inviting.
34.73580, -119.99990 · 34°44'8.9"N 119°59'59.6"W
Typically 93°F in Aug, down to 67°F in Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 67 | 68 | 71 | 76 | 80 | 86 | 92 | 93 | 91 | 84 | 75 | 67 |
| Low °F | 34 | 35 | 38 | 39 | 43 | 45 | 48 | 49 | 47 | 43 | 38 | 33 |
| Precip in | 4.9 | 5.3 | 3.6 | 1.3 | 0.5 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.8 | 1.2 | 3.3 |
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 10.7 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.
Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.
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