Spitler Peak TH to Apache Spring

[Reego]

I was thinking of backpacking from Spitler Peak TH up to Apache Spring. I would be driving up on Friday in the dark. I was wondering if there are any spots that I can camp at that are a mile or two in from Spitler Peak TH, essentially just hiking far enough along the Spitler Peak Trail so that I am removed from the road. Also is Apache Spring flowing?

Thanks,


Brian

[hvydrt]

Hurkey Creek campground is at the corner of 74 and Apple Canyon road.

[Ulysses]

Check with the Forest Service if you are concerned about being around hunters. I ran into several heavily armed individuals on that trail around this time last year. The trail is in the Wilderness Area, but it is outside of the game refuge. Good area for deer hunting.

That being said there are several outcroppings along the lower portions of the trail where you might find a flat spot that offer great views of Garner Valley and Lake Hemet. Might be kinda hard though. Bring a good sleeping pad.

There are also several nice Forest Service yellow post sites along Apple Canyon Rd. just past the campground.

[HH8]

There are also several nice Forest Service yellow post sites along Apple Canyon Rd. just past the campground.

What is a yellow post site?

[Ulysses]

A place where you can car camp not in a camp ground. I beleive they refer to it as "disperse camping". No bathrooms. There are fire rings, but fire restrictions prohibit any fires at this time. They are a couple hundred yards off the road, and you should be by yourself. No fee. First come first serve. Look for off road turnouts along Apple Canyon Road about 1/2 to 1 mile north of Hwy 74. There are also several on Thomas Mountain Road.