Santa Rosa Wilderness

Santa Rosa Wilderness is a protected nature reserve in the Santa Rosa Mountains of Southern California, spanning about 72,000 acres with steep canyons and elevation changes from sea level to around 7,000 feet. The terrain combines diverse landscapes and habitats within a single continuous protected zone.

The wilderness area was established through the California Wilderness Act of 1984 and later expanded with additional land through the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009. These legislative protections secured the reserve's future as a natural space.

The area holds many Native American archaeological sites, including ancient game trails, roasting pits, milling stations, rock shelters, and rock art that reveal the long human history here.

The wilderness is jointly managed by the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, allowing hiking, horseback riding, and regulated hunting in designated zones. Visitors should prepare for varying elevation and changing trail conditions across the terrain.

The mountains support the largest population of peninsular bighorn sheep in the United States, making this a crucial refuge for the species. These sheep are perfectly adapted to the extreme elevation changes and harsh conditions found here.

Location: Riverside County

Operator: US Forest Service;BLM

GPS coordinates: 33.52680,-116.31026

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:00