Need Help Finding Trails in Northern CA

Hey all,

I just got my first truck a few months ago and my girl wants to take it out camping/off roading, nothing crazy as I will most likely be alone. I'm not new to camping and have taken my civic to more places than many go in their 4wds. Anyway I'm looking for somewhere to go preferably forest near a lake/river with some decent trails that I won't have to worry about getting stuck, only friend with a 4x4 probably won't make it. I'm in San Mateo so looking for something within a few hours.

I've been to Cow Mountain, Indian valley, Panoche, tumey hills. All in my civic but I’m looking for something different. I was thinking about heading up to hope valley, blue lakes, but don't know really what it has to offer.

Thanks in advance, Mike

 

We have a big annual camping trip coming in July if you guys want to join there will be some light off roading envolved

 

Lake pillsbury has decent fire roads / trails that are the kind of thing you're looking for. It'd be fun if you tried to head to the top of the mountain and enjoy the views. You'd probably be fine by yourself.

 

Thanks, I saw the thread, not sure if we can make it, but I'm hoping to.

I forgot about that place. I've heard it can get kinda crazy on weekends though.

 

Not too bad, alot of people go up there to crush beer and shoot trash all day, and the partying at Oak Flats can get pretty crazy, but there's like 7 different areas to camp, and if one is too loud you can always just move to another.

You can enjoy some light trails, nice views, maybe take a swim for a little, and if you're lucky you'll end up seeing some bro do some stupid stupid shit.

 

Sounds like my kind of place! HAHA

I'm not worried about the noise or beer as I might end up joining in. I've just heard bad stories about the dudes target shooting. I plan on doing some shooting myself but last time we went out there were some ass hats who knew nothing of shooter safety or common decency.

 

There's no regard for safety whatsoever unless the rangers are checking people out. Just go in the early morning before others start crawling out of there hangover tents.

I think Pillsbury is a awesome place, especially if you can go with a group or if you have a boat. But even without those it should be fun.

 

I'll run it by her and see what she thinks. Thanks!