hunting trip california

Hunting in California

13 hunting trips from 4 outfitters starting from a 135,653

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California on map, about hunting in california.

California isn’t the first state that comes to mind when you think about hunting, and yet the Golden State features abundant hunting opportunities. California isn’t only about endless beaches and fields of the agricultural south, although even there a hunter can enjoy a great day afield. The north-western part of the state can boast of real wilderness areas, including Sequoia National Forest, Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Trinity Alps Wilderness, where you can find snow-covered peaks, dark spruce woods, and whitewater streams. Located on the Pacific flyway, California offers excellent waterfowl hunting, both on the rice fields of the agricultural part of the state and on the big reservoirs such as the Trinity and Shasta lakes. Turkey hunters will find their favorite birds in abundance, too, even though the original California wild turkeys went extinct well before European colonization, and the population is the result of relocation effort from the 1950s and 1960s. Another feral creature that offers exciting sport year round is the wild hog, and small game hunters have a good choice of California Valley quail, mourning and Eurasian dove, band-tailed pigeon, rabbits and squirrels. From a trophy hunter’s perspective, one of the most interesting game to hunt in California is the coastal black-tailed deer. While it’s smaller in both body and antlers than a typical white-tailed or mule deer, it’s recognized by trophy clubs as a separate entry. California has flourishing populations of predators, such as black bear, bobcat, coyote and mountain lion, but only the black bear and coyote are legal to hunt at the moment. The mountainous areas of California are home to considerable herds of Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk, and the plains in the south-west of the state hold a decent population of pronghorn. And the grand prize of hunting in California is the desert bighorn sheep that is recognized as a separate trophy category by the OVIS club, and counts toward a Great Slam. Most deer and bear tags are available over-the-counter, but all archery, muzzleloader, and rifle elk tags in California are limited draw only. So are pronghorn, bighorn sheep, as well as some deer tags. California has a preference point-based drawings system, and a person who does not intend to hunt this year should enter a special drawing so as to accumulate points. The Golden State has a complicated array of hunting seasons and regulations, based on different wildlife management zones and areas, which is impossible to summarize quickly. Full information is available at the California Game and Fish website https://wildlife.ca.gov, but one regulation that needs to be mentioned is that starting from 2019, hunters in California must use non-lead ammunition only; you can’t even have with you lead ammo suitable for the firearm(s) you are carrying when hunting in California.

Price distribution

Hunting methods all hunting methods (10), bow hunting.

Rifle Hunting

Game classification All classifications (6)

Dangerous Game

Animals All animals (7)

Blacktail Deer Hunt

Wild Pig 1x1 Fully Outfitted Hunt

Pure Columbian Blacktail Deer '24

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California (US) Hunting Trips and Hunting Outfitters

WILD PIG HUNTS

wild hog Hunts

What to expect on our guided boar hunts.

Wild Pig Hunt Details

• Weekend hunts – Friday  to  Sunday
• Weekday hunts –  Tuesday  to  Thursday 
• Arrival time is at or after 1pm on day one and check out is at 1pm on day three
• Spot and stalk methods are used as well as stand hunting
• We can accommodate all levels of sportsmen from the first-time hunter to the lifetime enthusiast
• Wild pig hunting season is year-round
• You may harvest more than one pig (additional cost per harvested pig)  as long as you have purchased the extra tags
• Additional pig cost – $1200
• Archery or rifle equipment is acceptable
• 2-day guided hunts

What’s Included

• Opportunity for one animal per hunter
• Transportation while in the field
• Drinks and snacks in the field
• Cleaning and skinning of game
• 2 nights of Lodging & Meals

What To Bring

• A valid California hunting license
• A valid California pig tag(s)
• Rifle or archery equipment – For rifles a ny caliber .243 or larger is preferred although most would agree that .270 – .30 caliber rifles work best. We also recommend scoped bolt action rifles over any other combination of firearm.
• Copper ammunition if hunting with a rifle
• Good hiking boots
• Warm clothing

Wild Pig Hunting Packages starting at

$2500 per hunter, photos from past wild hog hunts.

CALIFORNIA WILD PIG HUNT VIDEOS

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BOOK A HUNT

Guided elk hunts, trophy elk hunt.

Please contact for information and pricing

Management elk hunt, accommodations, “i have been hunting the tejon ranch for fifteen years on both guided and unguided hunts...hunting tejon is a truly extraordinary experience.", under an hour from los angeles & bakersfield, requirements, stay connected, about hunt at tejon.

CALL 661-663-4208

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All Inclusive Packages at Hunt Mill Hollow Ranch

Our guarantee.

Our Hunt Guarantee

Although our success rates are extremely high for harvesting your trophy (nearly 100%), we can't guarantee that every hunter will harvest their trophy. If you don't shoot any game (harvest or wound), you will not pay a trophy fee. All you pay for is the lodging, meals, transportation around the ranch, and guides fees which are all included in the hunt package fee for each hunt. 

Trophy Elk Hunt Packages

Our 2023-24 trophy elk packages include five star lodging for 3 days and 4 nights . Your hunt package includes delicious meals, snacks, with wine or beer after the hunt. Additional days/nights can be added if desired ($650ea).   The fully guided hunt includes recovery, field dressing, skinning (to the skull), and quartering of your trophy. Also included in the package is the transportation of your animal to our local taxidermist or game meat processor. Skull caping at the ranch or with a local taxidermist will incur an additional fee of $150. 

HUNT PACKAGE FEES:  Non-refundable fee whether an animal is harvested or not. This fee covers your stay at the ranch, guides, and other expenses. Trophy fees are in addition to the Package cost, but if you do not draw blood there will be no trophy fee. Wounded animals will be charged the same trophy fee as a kill.

• Individual Package:    $2500 plus the trophy fee, non-hunting spouse is free
• Group Package (5 or more hunters):    $2200 per hunter plus the trophy fees.

Non-Hunter Additional Guest: $500/night

Trophy Elk Fees:

• Under 320" gross B&C score - $7,000
• Elk 320" to under 350" gross B&C score - $9,500
• Elk 350" to under 375" gross B&C score - $11,500
• Elk 375" to under 400" gross B&C score - $14,500
• Elk 400" and up gross B&C score - $15,000 plus $100 for each inch above 400"

* In the case of irretrievable wounded animals, full price must be paid based on the gross B & C score. We do our best to recover any shot game, but can not guarantee the recovery of all wounded game.

One wild hog is available for a processing fee of $300.

Groups of two or more can add a quail, chukar, or pheasant wingshoot for an additional $600 per hunter (Includes 10 pheasant, or 12 chukar, or 15 quail per hunter, guide, and cleaning/packaging of birds).

Your guides, lodge chief and cleaner, and game processors will work hard for you and work for tips. If you feel they have done a good job, please tip them individually or as a group. The gratuity is customarily between 15% to 20% of the total hunt. Please use a separate check or cash. 

BOOKING A HUNT

*Once dates are scheduled, $2000 deposit is required to preserve a date for all hunts. Deposits are non-refundable at 3 months prior to the hunt date. Make checks payable to:

Anchor Point Properties, LLC

2215 Indian Sky Lane

Newbury Park, CA 91320

The remaining balance of the hunt or recreation package is due upon arrival in cash, check, or credit card. Trophy fees or additional fees are due at the end of the hunt.

Book Your Hunt!

Trophy Whitetail Hunt Packages

Our 2023-24 trophy whitetail packages includes five star lodging for 3 days and 4 nights. Your hunt package includes delicious meals, snacks, with wine or beer after the hunt. Additional days can be added if desired ($650 ea). The hunt includes field dressing, skinning (to the skull), and quartering of your trophy. Also included in the package is the transportation of your animal to our local taxidermist/game processor. Skull caping at the ranch or with the local taxidermist will incur an additional $150 fee.

Hunt Package Fees:  

Non-refundable fee whether an animal is harvested or not. This fee covers your stay at the ranch, guides, and other expenses. Trophy fees are in addition to the Package cost, but if you do not draw blood there will be no trophy fee. Wounded animals will be charged the same trophy fee as a kill.

• Individual Package:    $2500 plus a trophy fee, non-hunting spouse is free. 
• Non-Hunter Additional Guests: $500/night

Trophy Whitetail Fees:

• Doe - $800 
• Management Bucks 3+ year old, under 130", and 8 points or less - $2500;  September and October Early Season Management - $2200
• Bucks 130" to under 150" gross B&C score - $6500
• Bucks 150" to under 175" gross B&C score - $8500
• Bucks 175" to under 200" gross B&C score - $10,500
• Bucks 200" and up gross B&C score - $12,500 plus $100 for each inch above 200"

* In the case of irretrievable wounded animals, full price must be paid based on the gross B & C score. We do our best to recover any shot game, but can not guarantee the recovery of all wounded game.

Semi-guided Management Day Hunts:  

• $750 per day ranch fee (does not include lodging or meals) plus the management trophy fee

Groups of two or more can add a quail, chukar, or pheasant wingshoot for an additional $600 per hunter (Includes 10 pheasant, or  12 chukar,  or  15 quail per hunter, guide, and cleaning/packaging of birds).

The remaining balance of the hunt or recreation package is due upon arrival in cash, check, or credit card. Trophy fees or any additional fees are due at the end of the hunt. 

Buffalo Hunting Packages

Hunt Mill Hollow Bison Hunts 2023-24. The hunts will include meals & lodging for 1 day and 1 night. Additional day/night(s) can be added for $650 per day/night.

Trophy Bull - $8000

Mature Bull - $6500

Management Meat Hunt - cow, heifer, or yearling bull - $3800/bison

*If blood is drawn (bull is wounded), there will be a trophy fee.

Groups of two or more can add a quail, chukar, or pheasant wingshoot for an additional $600 per gun (Includes 10 pheasant, or 12 chukar, or 15 quail per gun, guide, and cleaning/packaging of birds).

*Once dates are scheduled, $2000 deposit is require to preserve a date for all hunts. Deposits are non-refundable at 3 months prior to the hunt date. Make checks payable to:

Wild Hog Hunt Packages (2023 update)

ALL PACKAGES ARE 2 NIGHT MINIMUM - Package fees include lodging; food, snacks, and drinks; transportation around the ranch; recovery, gutting/skinning, quartering your hogs "Ranch Processing" ; storage of your meat in a walk-in cooler prior to your trip home. 

2 HOGS/hunter are included in all packages. Additional hogs will a have fee of $300  each

1)  Individual Package:   2-night minimum lodging - $1600 includes meals and game processing for up to 2 hogs.

    Additional nights - $650/day-night

    Non-hunting spouse or child sharing hunter's room - $75/night

2) Group (5 or more hunters) Package:   2-night minimum lodging - $1400/guest, includes transportation around the ranch, meals, and game processing for up to 2 hogs/guest

Additional nights - $650/guest/night

Non-hunting spouse or family sharing the hunter's room  -  $75/night

Non-Hunter Guest:   Additional Non-hunter Room - $500/room/night

Individual Single Day-Only Ranch Passes:    $800 per day, No trophy fees, includes transportation around the ranch, lunch, and "Ranch Processing" for 1 hog; Ranch processing fee for additional hog(s) - $300 each.

Wild hogs can be harvested in addition to any Whitetail Deer, Axis Deer, Elk, or Bison Trophy hunts or recreational package 

Your guides, lodge staff, and game processors will work hard for you and work for tips. If you feel they have done a good job, please tip them individually or as a group (preferred). The gratuity is customarily between 15% to 20% of the total hunt cost. Please use a separate check or cash.

*Once dates are scheduled, a $1000 deposit for individual hunters ($3000 total for group hunts) is required to preserve a date for all hunts. Deposits are non-refundable at 3 months prior to the hunt date. Make checks payable to:

The remaining balance of the hunt or recreation package is due upon arrival in cash, check, or credit card. 

Axis Deer Hunts

Hunt Mill Hollow Ranch has been building a trophy Axis Deer herd for the last few years. Our 2023-24  Trophy Axis Deer package (beginning and ending in April) includes your stay at a five-star lodging for 3 days and 4 nights .   Your stay will include delicious meals, drinks, and snacks.

HUNT PACKAGE FEES:     The hunt package fee is charged whether an animal is harvested or not. This fee covers your stay at the ranch, guides, and other expenses.  Trophy fees are in addition to the package cost, but if you do not draw blood, there will be no trophy fee. Wounded animals will be charged the same trophy fee as a kill.  The fully guided hunt includes recovery, field dressing, skinning (to the skull), and quartering of your trophy. Also included in the package is the transportation of your animal to our local taxidermist or game meat processor. Skull caping at the ranch or with a local taxidermist will incur an additional fee. 

Individual Hunt Package Fee:   (2023-24) $2500 plus a trophy fee, non-hunting spouse is free

Group Package (5 or more hunters): (2023-24)  $2200 per hunter plus the trophy fees.

Additional days/nights can be added if desired ($650 each).

Individual Day-Only Ranch Passes:    $800/day/person, includes guide, transportation around the ranch, lunch, and "Ranch Processing.

AXIS DEER TROPHY FEES:

• Buck in hard antler and less than 30" - $4200
• Buck in velvet (any smaller size) or hard horned 30" to under 32"- $4800
• Buck in velvet or hard horned 32" and under 34" - $5400
• Buck in velvet or hard horn 34" and over - $5500 plus $500 per inch 
• Axis doe - $1200

* In the case of irretrievable wounded animals, the full trophy fee must be paid. We do our best to recover any shot game, but cannot guarantee the recovery of all wounded game.

The remaining balance of the hunt or recreation package is due upon arrival in cash, check, or credit card. Trophy fees or additional fees are due at the end of the hunt. 

Fallow Deer Hunts

Hunt Mill Hollow Ranch has been building a trophy Fallow deer herd for the last few years. Our 2023-24 Trophy Fallow Deer package (beginning and ending in April) includes your stay at a five-star lodging for 3 days and 4 nights .   Your stay will also include delicious meals, drinks, and snacks. 

HUNT PACKAGE FEES:     The hunt package fee is charged whether an animal is harvested or not. This fee covers your stay at the ranch, guides, and other expenses.   Trophy fees  are in addition to the package cost, but if you do not draw blood, there will be no trophy fee. Wounded animals will be charged the same trophy fee as a kill.  The fully guided hunt includes recovery, field dressing, skinning (to the skull), and quartering of your trophy. Also included in the package is the transportation of your animal to our local taxidermist or game meat processor. Skull caping at the ranch or with a local taxidermist will incur an additional fee. 

Individual Hunt Package Fee:   (2023-24) $2500 each plus a trophy fee, non-hunting spouse is free

Additional days/nights can be added if desired ($650/hunter).

Individual Day-Only Ranch Passes:    $800/day/person, includes transportation around the ranch, lunch, and "Ranch Processing.

FALLOW DEER TROPHY FEES:

• Fallow Buck - $4800
• Fallow Doe - $1600

Groups of two or more can add a quail, chukar, or pheasant wingshoot for an additional $600 per hunter (Includes 10 pheasant, or 12 chukar,  or 15 quail per hunter, guide, and cleaning/packaging of birds).

Your guides, lodge chief and cleaner, and game processors will work hard for you and work for tips. If you feel they have done a good job, please tip them individually or as a group. The gratuity is customarily between 15% to 20% of the total hunt. Please use a separate check or cash.

Aoudad Hunts

Hunt Mill Hollow Ranch has been building a trophy Aoudad herd.  We are finally ready to begin our Aoudad hunts in May 2021. 

HUNT PACKAGE FEES: Our 2023-24 Aoudad package (pricing beginning and ending in April) for a 3 day/4 night hunt is $2500.  This fee covers your stay at the ranch at our five-star lodge, guides, and other expenses. Your stay will include delicious meals, snacks, with wine or beer after the hunt. The hunt package fee is incurred whether an animal is harvested or not. Trophy fees are in addition to the package cost, but if you do not draw blood there will be no trophy fee. Wounded animals will be charged the same trophy fee as a kill.  The fully guided hunt includes recovery, field dressing, skinning (to the skull), and quartering of your trophy. Also included in the package is the transportation of your animal to our local taxidermist or game meat processor. Skull caping at the ranch or with a local taxidermist will incur an additional fee. 

Additional days/nights: can be added if desired - $650/night/hunter.

Aoudad Trophy Fees:

Rams less than 30" - $4400

Rams 30" to under 32" - $4800

Rams over 32" - $5200

Groups of two or more can add a quail, chukar, or pheasant fall/winter wing-shoot for an additional $600 per hunter (Includes 10 pheasant, or 12 chukar,  or 15 quail per hunter, guide, and cleaning/packaging of birds).

The remaining balance of the hunt or recreation package is due upon arrival in cash, check, or credit card. Trophy fees or other additional fees are due at the end of the hunt. 

Luxury Quail Hunting Packages

Field Hunt (15 quail per person, includes lunch) - $600 per person

Full Day Field Hunt with overnight stay (30 quail per person with breakfast, lunch, and dinner) - $1550 per person

Additional Quail - $20/bird

Additional Pheasant - $30/bird

Additional Chukar - $25/bird

Additional Nights lodging - $650/night

Dog Handler/dog: Half day - $100;  Full day - $150 per day

Non-Hunter Additional Room: $500/room/night

Non-hunting spouse in the same room:   Free!

Your guides, lodge chief and cleaner, and game processors will work hard for you and work for tips. If you feel they have done a good job, please tip them individually or as a group. The total gratuity is customarily between 15% to 20%. Please use a separate check or cash.

*Once dates are scheduled, $600/gun deposit is require to reserve a date for all hunts. Deposits are non-refundable at 3 months prior to the hunt. Make checks payable to:

Guided Pheasant Hunting Packages

Pheasant Half Day Hun t (10 birds/person) - $600 per person

Pheasant Full Day Hunt with overnight stay (Includes 20 birds, breakfast, lunch, and dinner) -  $1550 per person

Additional Pheasant - 1-10 birds - $30/bird

Additional Chukar - 1-10 birds - $25/bird

Additional Quail - 1-10 birds - $20/bird

Additional Night Lodging - $650 per person

Dog Handler/dog:  Half day- $100;   Full day - $150

Non Hunter Additional Room: $500/room/night

Non hunting spouse in the same room:   Free!

Your guides, lodge chief and cleaner, and game processors will work hard for you and work for tips. If you feel they have done a good job, please tip them individually or as a group. The total gratuity is customarily between 15% to 20%.

*Once dates are scheduled, $500/gun deposit is require to preserve a date for all hunts.  Deposits are non-refundable at 3 months prior to the hunt. Make checks payable to:

Guided Chukar Hunting Packages

One Half Day Field Hunt (12 birds per person) - $600 per person

Full Day Field Hunt (24 birds per person, includes lunch) - $900 per person

Full Day Field Hunt with overnight stay (20 birds per person with breakfast, lunch, and dinner) - $1550 per person

Dog Handler/dog: Half day - $100   Full day - $150/day

**Not Included In The Packages**

Transportation to or from the ranch: The ranch is located just southeast of Stilwell, Oklahoma. If you need to get picked up at a local commercial airport (Fayetteville, AR  -1.5hrs; Fort Smith, AR - 1hr; or Tulsa, OK - 2hrs), there will be an additional charge of $500 round trip (maximum of 3 passengers).

Oklahoma Hunting Licenses:                                                                                                                                              During the Oklahoma deer hunting season, you are required to purchase an Oklahoma Resident Annual Hunting License, a Nonresident Fiscal-Year License, or a Nonresident 5-Day Hunting License. If you are hog hunting outside of the state deer hunting season, you are not required to purchase an Oklahoma Hunting License. www.oklahomawildlifedepartment/licensing 

Your guides, lodge chief and cleaner, and game processors will work hard for you. If you feel they have done a good job, please tip them individually or as a group. The total gratuity is customarily between 10% to 20%. 

Alcoholic beverages: BYOB except for trophy elk, deer, and bison hunts

Taxidermy: There are several local taxidermists that can do beautiful whitetail deer, elk, and wild boar mounts, or you can bring your trophy home to your own taxidermist. 

Additional meat processing: Arrangements can also be made with a local meat processor for complete processing, packaging, and shipping of meat. 

Maps: If you are going to go off into the woods, it is a good idea to go on-line to  OnX Maps . You can download Oklahoma or the ranch area to save for offline mapping. Your GPS on any smartphone will work offline with an OnX map. Cell reception is best with Verizon.

Booking at Hunt Mill Hollow Ranch

*Once dates are scheduled, deposit is required to preserve a date for all hunts and events. Deposits required are listed with each package.  Deposits are non-refundable at 3 months prior to the hunt. Make checks payable to:

Book at HMH Ranch!

Central Coast California Hunting Packages

To order any of our hunting packages, please call 805-472-0163.

General guided hunting information:

Bryson Resort offers some of the finest hunting on the Central Coast of California. The guided hunts at Bryson Hesperia Resort are operated on over 6,000 private acres that surround Lake Nacimiento and San Antonio Lake in Monterey County, California. Our guided hunts run for 2 days and are conducted 7 days a week. We use a “spot-and-stock” method for large game.

This amazing area is one of the most beautiful sections of California's Central Coast and is minutes away from over 360,000 acres of public hunting grounds.

Lodging is not included but is available at Bryson Hesperia Resort. We do offer a hunters discounted lodging rate of $175.00 per night per cabin (2 night min), the cabins will sleep 3 comfortably, or 4 people with one on the sleeper futon in the living room. Airport facilities are available in nearby Paso Robles and King City. Please let us know if we can assist you in making travel arrangements.

Hunters are required to bring the following items:

• Valid CA hunting license
• Proper tags for big game
• Proper stamps for upland game and turkey hunting
• Rifle with NON-LEAD ammunition (.243, 25-06, .270, 30-06, 7mag or .300 mag caliber rifles are recommended.)
• Complete archery equipment including blinds, decoys, and calls
• Ice chest to take your meat home

Guided Central Coast California Hunting Packages

We are pleased to bring you a variety of hunting packages:

Please call 805-472-0163 to purchase a Bryson Guided Hunting Package.

Thank you for your interest in Bryson Hunts. We look forward to seeing you.

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Trinity Fork Outfitters

Trinity Fork Outfitters provides quality guided hunting, angling, spearfishing, and backpacking experiences in Northern California. We offer everything from half-day fishing trips to week-long or longer backcountry hunting adventures. Our biggest goal is to make you feel like you are on an excursion with a friend.

A Guides Year

Beginning in spring and summer is the height of the fishing season where the priority is chasing high mountain rainbows or spearfishing for big toothy lingcod – and everything in between. Archery season kicks off in August and we shift focus to big-game hunting for big California black bears and Columbian black-tailed deer. We chase a variety of upland birds in between archery and the general deer season. Always keeping several pointing and retrieving dogs on staff. That only lasts for a short time before the general deer and bear season begins in mid-September; this is the best chance to find a mature hard antlered deer and a mature boar gorging on mast crops. Late October marks the end of deer season but there is still plenty to hunt – bear, waterfowl, upland birds, squirrels, rabbits and turkey. Throughout the winter is primetime for predator hunting for coyote, gray fox, and raccoons. As the furs go out of prime we start to hear the turkeys gobble. Nothing is more enjoyable than a spring day under towering oaks playing cat and mouse with a longbeard.

We pretty much do it all here at Trinity Fork Outfitters. Our goal is to make your experience unique and rewarding. We will teach you everything we know and I’m sure learn a thing or two from you.

Please give us a call if you have any questions or to ask about availability.

As told by owner and guide Shane Dante.

It’s difficult choosing the perfect name for a business. Many different names were thrown around before deciding on Trinity Fork Outfitters, but the name comes with a story.

Myself and my good friend, Blake, were on a backcountry hunt in the Trinity Mountains of Northern California. We had only a few days to hunt and fog kept us from glassing the first day. On the second morning, we worked our way along a ridge glassing diligently as we went. Being late in the season, we knew the hunting would be hard as the older bucks are dead or educated and hiding in steep nasty thickets. As for bears, we expected to see them fattening up on any food source they could find. What we didn’t know was what food would be left this late in the fall. During that afternoon, our excitement leapt and crashed as we glimpsed a bear on the move drift out of range and sight further along the ridge. That bear and any other bears or shooter bucks in the area continued to elude us.

In hopes another would appear, we glassed hard in the direction we had spotted the bear. Rather than being rewarded with the sight of black or brown fur, we spotted the blue denim of another group of hunters working their way towards us on the ridge. Only a little discouraged by the newly discovered competition, we stayed put and continued to glass. We did not want to intrude on their hunt and could tell they were thinking the same about us. Both groups behind the glass, we watched each other until they decided to slowly turn back the way they had come. Being familiar with the area, Blake and I assumed the other hunters would be camping in the saddle further down the ridge where we were planning to camp that night. It being Sunday, we also suspected they might be headed home to start the work week soon.

Our confidence in finding game was at a new low due to the presence of other hunters, we decided to slow down and spend more time behind the glass on the way to our destination, the saddle. This way we would leave the other hunters enough time to enjoy the rest of their hunt and possibly see something they may have missed.

Light was beginning to dim while we were glassing a canyon east of our position. Sitting on a prominent knob I spotted a beautiful golden-brown bear feasting on Ceonothus berries. A mile away, it was too far to make a stalk that evening. On the same canyon face, but slightly closer was another healthy-looking bear. Jet black, it stood feeding just as frantically. With daylight waning, I began to focus my optics on the areas closest to me. A third good-sized bear appeared just as shooting light faded to dark.

We camped near the glassing knob and dreamed of bears in hopes morning light would come with opportunity. Expecting the bears to hold tight and enjoy the bountiful berries, we crept out to the knob at first light. It wasn’t long after the first rays of sunlight hit the canyon that we spotted the closest black bear from the night before. Blake took the shot and his aim was true. The bear dropped and began tumbling downhill. I continued to glass as Blake went to process his bear.

Soon after, I spotted a group of bucks near where the color phase bear was spotted the night before. About a mile away from me, I knew I would need to be quick because the bucks looked like they were going to crest a finger ridge into a sea of brush to bed for the day. At that distance, I couldn’t get a good look at the bucks, but I knew one was a shooter. I practically ran.

The bucks disappeared into the folds of the land as I approached shooting distance. I continued close the distance, maneuvering into the only shooting lane I could find. The bucks were back in view about 200 yards away. I positioned my tripod for a solid rest and took aim at the biggest buck in the group. I cracked off the shot and he ran a short downhill before he buckled and fell. I hiked down to retrieve him, excited to get a closer look.

I found the buck and was pleasantly surprised by his impressive and unique rack especially for a Columbian Blacktail. On his left side he had four solid points. His right side totaled seven points with the beam splitting into two near its base. It was a triple beam buck, or as we call it now – the Trinity Fork.

Hunting Opportunities

There are dozens of guides and outfitters to choose from all over America. Land access is getting scarce, pressure is increasing on public lands, and tags are becoming increasingly harder to draw.  Our goal is to bring attention to the exceptional hunting that gets overlooked in California. Who says you can’t have just as much fun hunting Columbian black-tailed deer as you would on a Colorado mule deer hunt? Hunting is about the people and camaraderie. We work tirelessly year-round to put guests on the intended game but we all know the kill is much more enjoyable when in good company. We like to say that hunting with us is “like hunting with a friend.”

How often do you see California license plates while hunting in Idaho?  All the time.  How often do you see Idaho license plates hunting in California? Never? Why is that?  California is not often thought of as a destination hunting location. Maybe the state doesn’t market itself well enough. If you are a non-resident there are some exceptional hunting opportunities that you are missing out on. If you are a resident – you don’t need to spend $12-20K on an elk hunt in Wyoming. Exceptional hunts and unforgettable experiences are much closer than you think.

Guided Hunts

• Roosevelt Elk – If you are lucky enough to draw any of the Roosevelt elk tags in California than you are in for a hunt of a lifetime. We guide elk hunts in the Marble Mountains and Northwestern California elk zones where the bulls and terrain are sure to impress any hunter.
• Columbian Black-tailed Deer  – Only 3 states host pure Columbian black-tailed deer. Sure, the antlers don’t get as big as Rocky Mountain mule deer but the experience is just as thrilling. This subspecies is one of the toughest animals to hunt in some of the most unforgettable terrain. Most of the harvest in the state consists of forked-horns but to kill a mature blacktail buck is truly an accomplishment. California offers a unique environment for blacktail deer hunting because there is ample opportunities for spot and stalk style hunting and always the possibility at a monster. 
• Black Bear  – California has a generous autumn bear season, piles of bears, very low targeted bear hunting pressure, and the bears are absolutely delicious. A little under half the bears we see are color phase bears. The fur in the fall is beautiful for rugs, and mature bears always have plenty of fat for rendering. California definitely needs to be on the list for folks who are after big bears.
• Rio Grande Wild Turkey  – A lot of states have their fair share of turkeys. California has a load of them and the season starts early and goes late, and the bag limit is generous. All you need besides a hunting license is a game bird stamp.
• Upland Birds  – there is an assortment upland birds to hunt in California. We specialize in mountain quail , California (valley) quail , sooty grouse , ruffed grouse , and band-tailed pigeon . Doves and rabbits can be found incidental to many upland game hunts. We can point you in the right direction on where to go for other fowl. Do you need to complete your quail slam? You can get your California (valley) quail, mountain quail and Gamble’s quail all in one state. We are working on adding chukar and Gambel’s quail properties to the list.
• Western Gray Squirrel  – Hunting squirrels seems to be more popular in other parts of the country, such as in the south and east. You almost never see someone out on a dedicated squirrel hunting trip in California. I’m not sure why it’s not as popular here especially considering the robust squirrel population. They make excellent table fare and are a blast to hunt for the entire family.
• Predators  – California has tons gray fox and coyote. We target fox with hand calls and coyote with electronic callers. The foxes here are often big and heavy coated, perfect for taxidermy or wall hangers.

The best part is that often you can combine multiple species into one hunt as long as the season is open and the hunter has the appropriate licensing, tags, or stamps. Our hunts are fully customizable.

The Unique Fishing:

California’s fishing opportunities are just as varied as its hunting. You can catch anything from rainbow trout in an alpine lake deep in the wilderness or dive for tasty lingcod hidden beneath the coastal reef. Maybe you don’t have the tackle, or knowledge of where and when to fish, but we do and we want to share what we know to make fishing accessible for you.

Guided Angling and Spearfishing

• Kayak fishing for king (Chinook) salmon, California halibut, lingcod, rockfish, cabezon, and leopard shark. Northern California is extremely unique because of the multitude of tasty fish that can be targeted just a short paddle away from the shore. Landing a chrome ocean king from a kayak is not an experience that would soon be forgotten.
• Spearfishing and Diving – We can take you freedive spearfishing for lingcod, rockfish, and cabezon in the cool waters of Northern and Central California.  If you haven’t tried the cheek meat of a fat lingcod you are missing out. The best part? You can spearfish all year long for most legal species with generous bag limits. Depending on the time of year and locality there are opportunities to spear CA halibut and CA sheephead. It’s also not uncommon to luck into some scallops clinging to the wash rocks. We offer shore-based freediving and kayak trips.
• Dungeness Crab – who doesn’t like crab? Come crabbing with us and we will show you have to catch your own crab, clean them, and cook it. Crabbing is easily combined with other ocean fishing species.
• Clam Digging – The coastal sloughs, beaches, and bays of California host several species of delicious clams. Only a few days each month is the tide low enough to access the clam beds. After the water rises and inundates the beds we can check crab pots, or throw a line out for perch or shark.
• Trout – Spend a warm summer day with us on a wilderness stream or lake fishing for rainbow or brook trout. Nothing is tastier than fresh whole trout while camped above a pristine lake. Combine fishing with a hunting trip for a cast and blast adventure.

Every trip is designed to fit your needs. We have something for everyone, from the avid fisherman to the beginner.

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Where to go Hunting in California

It’s time you completed the off-road camping destination list with as many hunting spots as possible.

September 25, 2021

Looking for the key to a successful hunting trip in California? We’ll give you a hint—it’s best enjoyed in places where the vistas take your breath away. You can thank California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife for the opportunity. Managing over one million beautifully landscaped acres with more than 711 properties, the diverse animal population is waiting for your discovery. Deer, waterfowl, pheasants, bears, pigs, and small mammals are all legal to hunt in the Golden State; you just have to make sure you’re pursuing in the right place. And we’re here to help you find those spots; it’s time you completed the off-road camping destination list with as many hunting spots as possible.

The Dos and Don'ts of Hunting in California 

If you’re thinking of going hunting in California but would rather skip the citation to appear in court, you better do your homework before hitting the road. Every year, countless enthusiasts find their wallets significantly lightened by a lawsuit because they went after an off-limit dove or duck; often without even knowing it. To save you from all the legal trouble, we’ve compiled a list of dos and don’ts when hunting in the Golden State:

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• Do: Follow the basic rules. Before you decide on a location, make sure that you have in your required license as well as any required stamps or tags.
• Don’t: Load your gun until you have reached land specifically designated for hunting purposes.
• Do: Double-check if the land you're choosing is open to hunting. Get a good map and check the firearms regulations. If you're hunting in an area owned by the government, check their website or ask ranger station staff if the land is indeed open to hunting.
• Don’t: Shoot anytime before or after the designated hunting hours.
• Do: Only obtain and use guns and ammunition legally recognized for hunting.
• Don't: Borrow someone else's tag or license; this is unlawful activity.
• Do: Familiarize yourself with the regulations regarding artificial lighting and night vision devices.
• Don't: Shoot from inside your vehicle, sailboat, powerboat, airplane, or even from across the road.

Bird Hunting Regulations to Remember 

Before you get to hunting, here are a few things to keep in mind about California’s bird hunting regulations:

• Shooting times for doves specifically are half an hour before sunrise to sunset.
• Any and every hunter (even junior hunting license holders) must have their license on them at all times.
• Permission from the landowner is required before hunting on private land.
• Shooting within 150 yards of an occupied dwelling is illegal.
• Hunting within 200 yards of a wildlife watering place is also illegal.

Hunting in Northern California 

Cache creek wildlife area .

If you're on the hunt for top-notch deer hunting locations in California, the Cache Creek Wilderness Area should definitely be on your radar. Nestled around 25 miles west of Williams, this breathtaking expanse covers roughly 2,300 acres. With its predominantly steep terrain dotted with oak trees, it offers picturesque views year-round. But that's not all – it's also a haven for hunting elk, black bears, wild pigs, rabbits, quail, pigeons, wild turkeys, and occasionally, doves, making it a diverse hunting ground for enthusiasts.

Jackson Demonstration State Forest

An outdoor lover’s paradise renowned for its wildlife and fishing opportunities , Jackson Demonstration State Forest is prized for being one of the top places to go turkey hunting in California ; that is if season permits. At roughly 50,000 acres, it’s the Golden State’s largest state forest , encompassing portions of the Noyo and Big River watersheds. And if you want to spot the forest from miles away, your best bet is going to be looking out for towering redwoods and Douglas firs.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled just outside of Willows, Mendocino National Forest is the only forest in the Golden State which isn’t intersected by a highway or a paved road. The entire 913,000 or so acres are a wooded nature's playground, remaining a rugged wonderland. And while all public land in the forest is open for hunting enthusiasts, it's the Lower Nye and the Grizzly Flat Dispersed Campgrounds that specifically cater to the sport. You're likely to find bears, deer, pronghorn, elk, bighorn sheep, and a few of the top hog hunting opportunities in California. 

Hunting in Southern California 

The Angeles National Forest

Serving as a backdrop to California's largest urban centers , the Angeles National Forest boasts roughly 700,000 acres of open space. The forest also covers the gorgeous San Gabriel Mountain range and has specific hunting areas open year-long. When general deer season commences, you're free to hunt mule, whitetail, sika, fallow, axis, blacktail, and sambar (just to name a few). Just make sure to purchase the necessary deer tags and a hunting license, and from there on out, you’re all set.

P.S. If you have spare time on your hands, we highly recommend cruising to the nearby Vasquez Rocks and try your hand at bouldering before you head out.

San Gabriel Canyon

All the way from the snow-covered peak of Mt. San Antonio, San Gabriel Canyon drains a watershed of more than 600 square miles. The undeveloped areas around the river create corridors of wetlands for wildlife and fish, providing primo opportunities for duck hunting in California . Recently, there has been a fair influx of ducks and geese into most Southern California spots —that’s not something that happens often, so you’d better take advantage of the situation. Quail are also plentiful in certain areas, but they’re generally scattered in heavy brush and are slightly harder to find.

Palo Verde Ecological Reserve

Spanning roughly 1,900 acres, the Palo Verde Ecological Reserve offers an expansive, mostly level terrain that's a breeze to explore. As you meander along the river's eastern edge, you'll be greeted by landscapes peppered with sandbar, cottonwood-willow, and mesquite riparian settings, adding a touch of serene beauty to your journey. If you’re after the best dove hunting in Southern California , then the reserve is probably your best bet—mourning, white-winged, spotted, and ringed turtle doves are known to flutter about the area. And best of all, almost all the designated hunting spots have been planted with food crops to attract and hold the doves. 

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You will enjoy our services including a bunk house for overnight stays and an outdoor BBQ area. Skinning and quartering is available for your convenience. We take pride in our experience and knowledge, and guarantee you will not only enjoy our hunts, but return for more. With this in mind, if an animal is not harvested it will only cost you $100 per hunter. Hunt the Big Horn Canyon Ranch today and see for yourself. Call for reservations NOW!

*NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

-CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE EXOTICS OFFERED AND OUR PRICING-

Local Meat Cutters

Have a look at some of our local recommended meat cutters, wild game recipes, great game recipes sure to leave a lasting taste after your hunt, like us on facebook & share your photos/videos with us, let's go hunt, book a hunt with big horn canyon ranch today.

"The owners are knowledgeable and hospitable. I can go big game hunting in the morning and be home for dinner. My game is dressed and in the freezer, thanks to Charlie Wagner the guide, owner and game preparer. Hat’s off to a great operation. See you soon!" -Brian Anderson

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For Booking Call: 1-951-202-1722

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Emergency contact #: 1-951-378-5006

Some of the best hunting that Northern California has to offer

Guided Pig Hunts

California is known for our trophy class wild boar, and the 360 Ranch is proud to boast one of the healthiest hog populations in Northern California.

As one of the only ranches in California that guarantees a shot opportunity during each hunt, we pride ourselves in offering pig hunts tailored to the desires and skill sets of every guest. Whether you prefer a spot and stalk experience, or would rather set up in a blind or stand, we can accommodate every hunting style and weapon.

About The 360 Ranch

Located within an hour from Sacramento, CA, the 360 Ranch is easy to get to from anywhere in Northern California. The ranch encompasses 10,000 acres with varying terrain and stunning views. Whether you're pursuing a trophy boar, a big buck, or a spring gobbler, the ranch offers a pristine backdrop for your next adventure.

We strive to create the perfect experience for each of our guests. So we offer multiple options for accommodations. You can camp under the stars, bring your RV or camping trailer, or stay in the resort-style lodge.

Book Your Next Hunt Today

We still have several openings for 2021​

Reserve your hunting or fishing trip today! 760.468.0716 or [email protected]

Here in Southern California we have the most unique deer sub species in the western United States. Sign up with SoCal Outfitters to have a chance to hunt one of these unique animals.

We offer an exciting opportunity to hunt waterfowl in a unique environment.  Our waterfowl hunts take place on a large private lake that has some public access.

SoCal Outfitters has access to more than 150,000 acres outside of Paso Robles, California.  We provide our clients with a premium pig hunting experience like no other in California.

Being able to experience a hunt for Americas most iconic animal, the buffalo is something you’ll never forget. These hunts take place inside of a 3,400 acre area that has healthy number of buffalo.

These hunts are for free range Barbado rams and take place on 30,000 acres of private property. Hunters will enjoy a premium hunting experience that is right for hunters of all ability.

Our clients will have the option to hunt dove, quail, and/or pigeon during open seasons. Quail hunts are more physical in nature, but our dove/pigeon hunts take place around food and water sources.

These hunts take place on premium hunting ranches such as Paso Robles Private Ranch, which has healthy populations of Rio Grande and Merriam turkey.

Our Predator and varmint hunts and an exciting opportunity for a hunter to test his or her shooting abilities. You’ll be hunting premium coyote and squirrel areas that are loaded with game.

Book Your Next Hunt With Us

Central Coast Outfitters has been guiding hunts along the California coast since 1995. We offer hunts for Tule Elk, Roosevelt Elk, Black Tail Deer, Black Bear, Wild Turkey, , Gray Fox, Wild Boar, Quail and Dove. Central Coast Outfitters also offers hunts on the South Island of New Zealand. We offer hunts for Red Stag, Tahr, Chamois, Fallow Deer, Arapawa Ram, Hill Ram, Wapiti, Wild Boar and Alpine Goat.

• Name * First Last
• Hunt Interested In * Tule Elk Spring Turkey Hunts B-Zone Black Tail Deer & Black Bear Hunts A-Zone Deer, Pig, Quail, and Dove Hunts Wild Pig Hunts Pheasant & Chukar Hunts See bottom of page for more information
• Requested Date * MM slash DD slash YYYY
• Comments/Questions

After booking, please read and sign our Booking Agreement .

Spring Turkey Hunts

B-zone black tail deer & black bear hunts, a-zone deer, pig, quail, and dove hunts, pheasant and chukar.

California Indians made this hidden valley a resting place during their annual migration to the Pacific Ocean. The Peachtree Ranch is approximately 50,000 acres. The Indians found plentiful numbers of game for hunting. Here were quantities of stone to form arrow heads for hunting.

Spanish Ranchos eventually gave way to the influence of the U. S. Dollar. The Peachtree Ranch became headquarters for cattle barons Miller and Lux. It was Miller and Lux who saved the Tule Elk from total extinction. You now have the opportunity to hunt these magnificent animals on a ranch where the very people that saved the elk, ran cattle.

During the late 1920’s the Peachtree Ranch became an escape for many famous cowboys of that era, like Tom Mix, Gene Autry and Will Rogers just to name a few.

Bird Hunts at the RS Bar Guest Lodge

Our planted bird hunts are conducted on a beautiful ranch is San Benito County. On this hunt you will stay right on the ranch in a wonderful lodge where you can see the San Benito River ambling along from the lodge. This lodge has a huge living room with a fireplace, which is a great place to come in and relax after the days hunt. All suites have their own bathrooms; some suites have their own fireplace. In the afternoon and evening, you can sit out on the porch and watch our cooks Bar-B-Q dinner right on the porch of this wonderful lodge. This hunt is conducted on one of the most premier hunting properties on the Central Coast of California. We also have a sporting clays and trap range along with a rifle range that goes out to 1,000 yards with silhouette targets.

California Hunting Outfitters

Bitterwater Outfitters of Paso Robles, California offers over 20 species on over 250,000 acres with the finest professionally guided hunting in Central California. California Wild Boar, European & Russian Boars, Buffalo, Water Buffalo, Exotics, Blacktail Deer, Pheasant/Chukar, Upland Game, Turkey and Varmint hunts are available. The Central Coast of California Hunts are up to two days of fully guided hunting. We hunt by foot, all terrain vehicle or truck and we use a spot and stalk method. You can choose to hunt with a rifle or a bow. We offer hunting for all ages, skill and agility levels. We can also take care of the meat processing and shipping if you prefer (additional expense). Taxidermy services are available as well.

• Wild Pig Hunts
• Euro & Russian Boar Hunts
• Deluxe Wild Pig Huts
• Buffalo Hunts
• Water Buffalo Hunts
• Exotic Hunts
• Turkey Hunts
• Upland Game
• Varmint Hunts
• Pig Hunt Q&A

It was a really good experience going on a hunt with Bitterwater Outfitters. I loved staying at the ranch headquarters. The operation is an old western, down to earth feel. Clayton was great to talk to and be around. Everyone that I know that has gone keeps coming back. If someone doesn’t come back, they don’t like to hunt.

• Recent Press
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• Pig Hunt Q&A
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• Deluxe Hunts
• Booking Info

Bitterwater Valley is located just east of Paso Robles in San Luis Obispo County. Hunt wild pig, buffalo, exotics, deer, dove, quail, turkey and varmints. © Copyright 2024 Bitterwater Outfitters. | All Rights Reserved. | Accessibility

1 (530) 913-4997

Now booking waterfowl hunting trips, waterfowl hunting trips, october - january in gridley and colusa.

Waterfowl hunting in the central valley attracts more than 100,000 waterfowlers a year to chase the migration of the Pacific Flyway. Duck hunts are based out of the Colusa and Gridley areas; where we will hunt over flooded rice fields. 

Weather is key factor for waterfowl hunting, however Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays typically are more successful due to hunting pressure.  Transportation can be provided to the blinds, upon request. 

We also offer goose hunts, through a partnering guide service. These hunts are primarily in dry fields over large decoy spreads, targeting specks and snow geese. 

Guided hunting Trips - What to Expect

We handle....

• Transportation to and from field
• Field dressing
• Preparation for taxidermy

you Bring...

• Valid hunting license (State and Federal Duck Stamps required for waterfowl)
• Valid tag for big game hunt
• Backpack and Binoculars
• Rifle or Bow
• Clothes for current weather conditions (hats, sunglasses, jackets, etc.)

deer hunting Trips

August - october in mammoth lakes.

My deer hunting trips are always scheduled one-on-one which provides a quality experience with high success rates. Prior to your hunt, I will have already spent countless hours scouting and planning your hunt.  The hunts can be physically demanding and I will try to accommodate all of your needs to be successful. 

Most of the hunts will be spot and stalk with lots of time behind quality optics.  The hunts typically start an hour before sunrise and end at sunset. You will be transported to and from the field either by vehicle or by our Polaris Ranger’s which are fully enclosed for your comfort.  Upon the successful harvest, I will field dress and pack out your deer. 

I can also cape your trophy for taxidermy, upon request.

august - october in Mammoth lakes

Bear hunting trips.

Bear hunting is one of the most exciting hunts I offer. Whether you’re hunting with a bow or rifle, getting up close to these big bears is unbelievable. These hunts are also conducted one-on-one and are typically spot and stalk.  These hunts can be physically demanding and I will try to accommodate all of your needs to be successful. 

The hunts typically start an hour before sunrise and end at sunset. You will be transported to and from the field either by vehicle or by our Polaris Ranger’s which are fully enclosed for your comfort.  Upon the successful harvest, I will field dress and pack out your bear. I can also cape your trophy for taxidermy, upon request. 

Bear tags can be purchased over the counter before and during the season.

Bear hunting is one of the most exciting hunts I offer. Whether you’re hunting with a bow or rifle, getting up close to these big bears is unbelievable. These hunts are also conducted one-on-one and are typically spot and stalk. These hunts can be physically demanding and I will accommodate all of your needs to be successful.

The hunts typically start an hour before sunrise and end at sunset. You will be transported to and from the field either by vehicle or by our Polaris Ranger’s which are fully enclosed for your comfort. Upon the successful harvest, I will field dress and pack out your bear. I can also cape your trophy for taxidermy, upon request. 

Check out Our Latest Trips

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Nothing but limits! Open boat for May 9! Text or call 530-913-4997 to book! #qualifiedcaptain #striperfishing #sacramentoriver #seewhatsoutthere

It’s been striper catching with us all season! Only 2 dates available April 25 and May 8 for the season! Text or call to book! #striperfishing #qualifiedcaptain #seewhatsoutthere Johnson's Bait and Tackle Kittles Outdoor & Sport Co. #SacramentoRiver #featherriver #guidelife

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The hiking, camping, day trips and more that will make your SoCal summer one to remember

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Good morning. It’s Saturday, June 1 . I am Jaclyn Cosgrove, an outdoors journalist at The Times. Here’s what you need to know to start your day.

• Hiking and camping season are here. Make the best of it with these tips.
• The contrasting days of a former and current president: Trump conviction and Biden’s attempt to tame the war in Gaza .
• How bad will a California COVID wave get if FLiRT subvariants continue to rise ?
• And here’s today’s e-newspaper

You're reading the Essential California newsletter

Our reporters guide you through our biggest news, features and recommendations every morning

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

“Adventure is out there!”

In just two miles, my hike had climbed almost 1,700 feet in elevation. As I went up the Vital Link Trail in Burbank , I thought, “I will never do this again.”

But then, a lounge chair built to honor Willie Mann greeted me at the top. I sat down, put my hand to my heart in gratitude to Willie’s friends and family and took in the panoramic views of L.A. County.

For the past few months, a group of Times writers and contributors have worked to launch and improve our guides that will help you make the most of this adventurous season.

I’d like to share with you my advice for how you can easily escape Los Angeles and have a truly great summer. The research is already done for you.

Our updated hiking guide includes hikes for all skill levels, like …

• The shady (and relatively flat) 2.4-mile Elysian Park West Loop Trail that Times staff writer Deborah Vankin wrote “may be the ultimate urban trail in L.A. — intimately connected to the surrounding city while also steeped in tranquil wildlife.”
• The moderate Bridge to Nowhere hike , where you can gaze upon, indeed, a bridge to nowhere. The trail could leave you with “a renewed recognition of the puniness of mankind and the might of the San Gabriels,” Times staff writer Christopher Reynolds wrote.

If you want to stay longer in the woods, I have good news for you: there are many camping and backpacking opportunities near L.A.

I wrote a guide for how to snag a campsite at one of the many first-come, first-serve campgrounds in L.A. If you want something easy, check out one of the beginner-level campgrounds, like Chilao Campground , a high-desert-with-forest-vibes spot in Angeles National Forest.

Or, try your hand at bikepacking. I recommend taking the West Fork National Scenic Bikeway , a stunningly green, mostly paved path north of Azusa, about six miles to the Glenn Camp Campground . I spotted a deer , several birdies and a few squirrels, including one who ran alongside my bike before springing off into a tree.

When you visit these trails or campgrounds, please practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace , a simple framework to help us remember to leave only footprints and take only memories (and photos). Arguably its most well-known principle is to not leave behind any trash (hot take: including orange peels ).

Our 101 best West Coast experiences guide is an embarrassment of riches.

Carry that mindfulness with you as you explore farther north, using our 101 best West Coast experiences guide to everything awesome from Baja to British Columbia. It is also available in a zine , which would make a great gift (hint, hint, Mom).

Spend the night in the East Brother Light Station , a lighthouse on an island in the San Francisco Bay. Check out Fauna , a restaurant led by chef David Castro Hussong, in Baja’s Guadalupe Valley, where Christopher got one of the best meals he had last year.

The guide also highlights free activities, including the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery , where you might just spot elephant seals making love (probably loudly?). You didn’t have that on your bingo card, did you?

For shorter, closer-to-home experiences, check out Christopher’s guide on the best ways to kick off your summer in L.A.

Lastly, for those of you who plan to stay close to home, you can forage in your own neighborhood. For real!

My colleague Jeanette Marantos recently considered one of the most L.A. ethical quandaries: Should you pick fruit from your neighbor’s tree? If so, when? Half of the 855 readers who replied said it’s OK when the branches are full of fruit and hanging over a public street or sidewalk. But is it legal? You’ll have to read Jeanette’s piece to find out .

Sometimes when I’m planning my next hike or camping trip, I hear Ellie from the Pixar film “Up” shouting, “Adventure is out there!” Or maybe that’s just Little Jaclyn, my inner child, ready to party. Either way, I will see you on the trails.

The week’s biggest stories

Trump conviction:

• Trump rages, Biden struggles to tame the war in Gaza : The contrasting days of a former and current president.
• Trump plans to raise money in California in the aftermath of felony convictions.
• ‘Stormy’ filmmakers explain how Daniels helped convict Trump : ‘Let’s give the woman her due.’
• Most California Republicans in competitive congressional races are silent on Trump’s conviction.
• Column: 3 things about the Trump conviction that should be getting more attention .
• Column: The jury has spoken. What happens next will be a great test of American democracy .
• Newsletter: How’s Trump’s conviction will — and won’t — impact his 2024 chances .
• Big expansion of UC strike over pro-Palestinian protests: Irvine, San Diego, Santa Barbara next.
• Police arrest protesters on UC Santa Cruz campus after ordering them to leave encampment.
• UC strike also rears up as pro-Palestinian protests. That’s why the endgame is so tricky .
• Kaffiyehs and pickets: UCLA, UC Davis workers strike over treatment at pro-Palestinian protests .

Policing and incarceration:

• For some incarcerated women, getting ahold of menstrual products is a nightmare.
• Off-duty LAPD officer shoots, kills motorist after dispute after fender bender.
• Schoolchildren sickened by cloud of tear gas in police training mishap .

Mexico election:

• Millions of Mexicans will vote tomorrow, likely to elect the country’s first woman president .
• She’s likely to be Mexico’s next president . Can she save the country from cartel violence?

Health and science:

• The FLiRT subvariants are rising : How bad will a California COVID wave get?
• Signs of rising COVID in California as new FLiRT subvariants dominate.
• Los Angeles could end COVID vaccination rule for city employees.
• The more women followed this diet , the longer they lived.

More big stories:

• Made it! Californian climbers use pioneering techniques to summit Mt. Everest .
• State audit finds major backlog of wage theft claims in California.
• Topanga Canyon Boulevard to reopen Sunday, months ahead of schedule.
• How Beyond Meat is trying to get its sizzle back.
• John Lennon’s newly repaired 12-string ‘Help!’ guitar sells for a record $2.85 million .
• Solar project to destroy thousands of Joshua trees in the Mojave Desert.

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Commentary and opinions

• Harry Litman: Does it matter that Donald Trump just became a convicted criminal? Of course it does.
• LZ Granderson: With this guilty verdict, Trump has gone full Bond villain .
• Gustavo Arellano: The very L.A. lessons at the heart of reality TV smash ‘Vanderpump Rules.’
• Editorial: Phew. Anti-transgender measure won’t be on the November ballot.

Today’s great reads

A guide to mental health in Vietnamese. How to talk about family, grief, trauma and more, in Vietnamese, according to experts and community members.

One more great read:

• In the ‘gay capital’ of Asia, Chinese LGBTQ+ emigres look to build a new life.

How can we make this newsletter more useful? Send comments to [email protected] .

For your downtime

Going out (in Las Vegas)

• 🎰🌆 Here’s how to conquer the new Las Vegas .
• 🍹 Everywhere you need to eat right now, on and off the Strip.
• 🎢 9 immersive experiences you should book ASAP.
• 📖 10 books to add to your reading list in June .
• 🧑‍🍳 Here’s a recipe for skillet chicken thighs with peas & pickled chiles.
• ✏️ Get our free daily crossword puzzle, sudoku, word search and arcade games .

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Which actor lends his voice to the lasagna-loving feline in the new release ‘The Garfield Movie’? Plus nine other questions from our weekly news quiz.

Have a great weekend, from the Essential California team:

Jaclyn Cosgrove, reporter Defne Karabatur, fellow Christian Orozco, assistant editor Karim Doumar, head of newsletters

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Jaclyn Cosgrove covers the (great!) outdoors at the Los Angeles Times. They started at The Times in 2017 and have written about wildfires, culture, protests, crime and county government. In 2022, they managed For Your Mind, a yearlong mental health project. Cosgrove is originally from rural Oklahoma and is a proud Oklahoma State University graduate. They fell in love with the Southern California landscape when they moved here in 2017. They are always looking for the next adventure and welcome your ideas. If their phone goes straight to voicemail when you call, it probably means they’re in the mountains with their beloved dog, Maggie May.

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