San Onofre Bluffs Reopens Two Northern Parking Lots After Scales Fire; Southern Trails Remain Closed

SAN CLEMENTE / SAN ONOFRE — October 26, 2026. State park managers have revised public access after the Scales Fire near San Onofre State Beach. California State Parks’ October 23 update says the two northernmost parking lots at San Onofre Bluffs have reopened to vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles.

Areas south of Trail 1 remain closed

While access has returned at the northern parking lots, all areas south of the Trail 1 parking lot remain closed to all traffic because of damage to trails and infrastructure associated with the fire. That restriction applies to travel on foot and by bicycle as well as vehicles, according to the park’s current notice.

Visitors should not interpret the reopening as meaning all bluff trails and parking areas are now safe. Observe posted closure signs, stay out of work sites and check conditions before using remote access routes.

Surf Beach has different restrictions after high tides

The park separately says lower dirt parking at San Onofre Surf Beach is still closed to vehicles following storm and surf damage. Walking, surfing and cycling access remains permitted outside marked work areas, but restroom and water services are unavailable due to water-main damage. The facilities and restrictions at Surf Beach must not be confused with the northern Bluffs parking reopening.

How to check the current situation

California State Parks lists the location as open with restrictions and identifies San Onofre Bluffs and the surf beach as distinct areas. Specific trail and campground conditions can change. Before visiting from San Clemente or neighboring communities, review the original park update rather than relying on outdated social-media closure notices.

Official source: California State Parks, San Onofre State Beach — restrictions updated October 23 and checked October 26, 2026. Additional October 15 storm background: statewide coastal damage report.

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