Warner Valley Day Use Area

A boardwalk on a trail in Warner Valley.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Warner Valley

Significance:

Day Use Area

Amenities

8 listed

Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Picnic Table, Recycling, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Drinking/Potable

Season: June through October; road closed winter/spring
Access: Dirt road not recommended for trailers
Fees: An entrance fee receipt or pass is required
Note: No cell service

Warner Valley Day Use Area is located at the east end of Warner Valley, above Hot Springs Creek. The area includes a trailhead and a small picnic area. The Warner Valley Campground is located across Warner Valley road, which continues one mile to Drakesbad Guest Ranch. Vehicle access and parking at Drakesbad is limited to guests only due to limited space. All visitors are welcome to visit Drakesbad, which can be accessed via a short hike from the trailhead. The guest ranch offers a small gift shop as well as bagged lunches, dining, and lodging by reservation only.

Get There

The Warner Valley Day Use Area is located in the southeast corner of the park and is accessed via a 17-mile road out of Chester. The last 3 miles is dirt road with steep sections and is not recommended for trailers. View directions to the Warner Valley Area.

Trailheads 

The trailhead here provides access to Drakesbad Guest Ranch, Boiling Springs Lake, Devils Kitchen, Drake Lake, and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). This area is a popular stop for PCT through hikers. Aside from the PCT, the narrow valley does not offer many opportunities for backpacking. A free permit is required for backpacking and stock use; self-registration is available at the Butte Lake Ranger Station.

Picnic Area

A handful of picnic tables are located adjacent to the parking area, above Hot Springs Creek.