Hi guy's. The fire station is up there quite a way's, not too far from the parking area where Trabuco Canyon, and Holy Jim Trail split.
Because this is National Forest land, and in SoCal (only SoCal) you have to purchase a Forest Adventure Pass to park (just to park a vehicle so it's really just a parking pass). Absurd since it's public land, and you don't have to pay it when you get into the Sierra's on northward. If your just going to be driving through you don't really need to get a pass.
If you park and leave your vehicle you could get a ticket. I've seen numerous vehicles with tickets on the windshield before. It's at the discretion of the ranger who happens to go through that day.
When I was up in the San Jacinto's some years ago I went hiking and got a ticket (only $5.00). I could have gone to the ranger station to pay the fee, but forgot about it. When registration time came the next year there it was. I have since gotten the pass every year. I do frequent the mountains for hiking.
When you get your pass try to get it in the first week of the month since the pass will expire on the last day of the same month the following year. This way you get 13 months for the price of 12.
There may be a day use pass available as I've seen in other camping areas throughout SoCal that typically cost 2-5 dollars. You will usually see a sign, and lock box near the bulletin board postings.
I just might be able to join you on that trip. It sound like a good time. With the rain this week it should be a good chance to get dirty. I'll stay tuned for details.
