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Manzana Schoolhouse Camp South Los Padres National Forest

  • Camp Type: Wilderness Trail Camp
  • Topo Map Link: Zaca Lake
  • Elevation: 1150 feet
  • Wilderness Area: San Rafael
  • County: Santa Barbara County
  • Ranger District: Santa Lucia Ranger District
  • Longitude: -119.9946286
  • Latitude: 34.8260205
  • Water Sources: Mazana Creek seasonal
  • Length of Stay: 14 Days
  • Reservations: Wilderness Trail Camp

Recent Water Reports:

Date Surveyor Water Report
04-21-2024TurboFlowing
04-20-2024James DowneyFlowing
02-16-2024Los Padres Forest AssociationFlowing
05-31-2023Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
04-25-2023Jack ButlerFlowing
04-23-2023Matt Inman - Ojai Valley SchoolFlowing
11-19-2022Benjamin YoungbloodDry
05-16-2022Jason M. TapiaDry
04-14-2022Paul CronshawDry
03-27-2022Ryan GalushaTrickle
02-04-2022Stephen SFlowing
02-02-2022Stan AFlowing
01-24-2022Nathan SeafordFlowing
04-10-2021Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
03-20-2021SoniaFlowing
03-18-2021Jeremy KFlowing
02-28-2021Tom MacciantiFlowing
01-14-2021colbycheesevtaDry
01-13-2021Easy-ADry
01-01-2021Shaddus Maximus Dry
10-28-2020Tony G.Dry
07-02-2020Sparta FCDry
06-08-2020Ryan AndersonFlowing
05-02-2020Duane WaiteFlowing
05-02-2020Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
04-20-2020Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
01-04-2020Jason TapiaFlowing
11-26-2019Paul CronshawDry
06-17-2019Louis TremblayFlowing
06-09-2019Los Padres Forest AssociationFlowing
05-04-2019Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
04-15-2019BastienFlowing
04-01-2019M SchlessFlowing
01-04-2019Anthony VDry
12-27-2018Norman SStagnant
11-20-2018Arlen Van Draanen Trickle
10-14-2018Dave HStagnant
07-02-2018Paul CronshawStagnant
06-17-2018Brad MarstonStagnant
05-23-2018Spencer PlanteTrickle
05-18-2018IGTOFTFlowing
05-04-2018Matt Inman-Ojai Valley SchoolFlowing
04-23-2018D. RobertsonFlowing
04-07-2018Anonymous SurveyorFlowing
03-31-2018Brandyn GibsonFlowing
02-27-2018Mark WilliamsDry
02-17-2018Los Padres Forest AssociationStagnant
01-14-2018Los Padres Forest AssociationDry
11-27-2017Dan HughleyDry
05-24-2017Ryan CheneyFlowing
12-17-2016Matt DailyStagnant
05-28-2016Cameron DStagnant
05-21-2016JamesTrickle
05-13-2016Los Padres Forest AssociationFlowing
12-27-2015Anonymous SurveyorDry
12-27-2015JamesDry
09-25-2015Serhiy Petryshak Dry
05-22-2015Paul CronshawDry
04-11-2015Tim MolloyDry
04-11-2015M. JonesDry
03-07-2015Curt CraggDry
02-15-2015Will Dry
01-01-2015Anonymous SurveyorDry
10-27-2014Los Padres Forest AssociationDry
05-04-2014Los Padres Forest AssociationDry
04-20-2014Anonymous SurveyorDry

Description:

A small trail camp located about 8 Miles down stream from Nira Camp via the Manzana Trail (30w13) in the San Rafael Wilderness.

Recent Uploads:

Survey Photos:


  • M. Jones - 04-11-2015

  • M. Jones - 04-11-2015

  • M. Jones - 04-11-2015

  • M. Jones - 04-11-2015

  • M. Jones - 04-11-2015
    Old Wells homestead

  • Paul Cronshaw - 05-22-2015
    Dead oak tree at main campsite

  • Serhiy Petryshak - 09-25-2015

  • Mark Williams - 02-27-2018
    Schoolhouse at sunset. 2/27/18

  • Mark Williams - 02-27-2018
    Dry Sisquoc riverbed. 2/27/18

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 01-14-2018
    View of the Schoolhouse Camp from across the bone dry Manzana.

  • Paul Cronshaw - 07-02-2018

  • Anthony V - 01-04-2019
    Manzana Schoolhouse

  • Anthony V - 01-04-2019

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 02-17-2018
    Before and after of the wilderness sign at the Schoolhouse

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 06-09-2019
    Kristi Finishing Touches on Wilderness Sign

  • Paul Cronshaw - 11-26-2019
    Schoolhouse Campground

  • Paul Cronshaw - 11-26-2019
    Schoolhouse horse corral

  • Paul Cronshaw - 11-26-2019
    Schoolhouse Riverside campsite

  • Paul Cronshaw - 11-26-2019
    Schoolhouse history

  • Jason Tapia - 01-04-2020

  • Jason Tapia - 01-04-2020

  • Jason Tapia - 01-04-2020

  • Duane Waite - 05-02-2020
    Broken floor board just inside the school house door

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 05-02-2020

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 05-02-2020

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 05-02-2020

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 05-02-2020

  • Anonymous Surveyor - 05-02-2020

  • Ryan Anderson - 06-08-2020
    Creek at Manzana Schoolhouse Camp

  • Sparta FC - 07-02-2020
    Illustration of completely dry creek

  • Sparta FC - 07-02-2020
    Water downstream of School (with rattlesnake)

  • Sparta FC - 07-02-2020
    Rattle Snake

  • Paul Cronshaw - 04-14-2022
    Dry Manzana River at Camp.

  • Paul Cronshaw - 04-14-2022
    Schoolhouse

  • Paul Cronshaw - 04-14-2022
    Pool located downstream

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 02-16-2024
    The new roof, a shining beacon of forest volunteer awesomeness. Hopefully it'll help the Schoolhouse survive another few decades for people to enjoy and imagine how life was back when it was used.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 02-16-2024
    The serene Manzana crossings at the Schoolhouse.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 02-16-2024
    Toilet platform, waiting patiently to be completed.

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 02-16-2024
    No holes in the roof this go around - FANTASTIC to see!

  • Los Padres Forest Association - 02-16-2024
    No other wilderness signs like this one.....

  • James Downey - 04-20-2024
    Schoolhouse Entrance 4-20-2024

  • James Downey - 04-20-2024
    Manzana Creek Flow 4-20-2024

  • James Downey - 04-20-2024
    View during ascent of Hurricane deck 4-21-2024

  • James Downey - 04-20-2024
    Walking in Manzana Creek 40-20-2024

Submitted Camp Reports

Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-21-2024 - by Turbo
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-21-2024
Surveyor Name:Turbo
Camp Description:Camp is grassy and lumpy. Most fire rings have grass in them. Toilet needs some work-missing boards. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:1-3’
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-20-2024 - by James Downey
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-20-2024
Surveyor Name:James Downey
Camp Description:Really gorgeous walk from Lower Manzana TH to the school house. Flowers in full bloom and lush grass everywhere. Hurricane deck equally as beautiful. Hot and exposed with tons of elevation gain, but lovely hike nonethe less. Took about 5 hours to hike out from Manzana School House.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Fast flow of river, deepest river crossing was just above knee deep (I'm 5'10")
Weather Conditions:75 and sunny
Images:

Schoolhouse Entrance 4-20-2024

Manzana Creek Flow 4-20-2024


View during ascent of Hurricane deck 4-21-2024

Walking in Manzana Creek 40-20-2024
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 02-16-2024 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 02-16-2024
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:The Schoolhouse looked amazing! The LPFA helped replace the roof in November 2023 and the new roof was beaming, great to see and thanks everyone who helped with that lengthy process!

Tons of water as you might expect during the middle of such an epic winter.

The new toilet platform remains un-attached, something we need to come back and complete. The toilet was full, so hopefully we can get in there sooner rather than later and wrap that up.

All camps looked good, a couple trees need bucking here/there but otherwise the Schoolhouse looks ready for action!
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Wet feet required at both the Manzana and Sisquoc crossings - TONS OF WATER winter 2024!
Weather Conditions:Terrific winter temps, cowboy camped around 35˚ with some dew.
Images:

The new roof, a shining beacon of forest volunteer awesomeness. Hopefully it'll help the Schoolhouse survive another few decades for people to enjoy and imagine how life was back when it was used.

The serene Manzana crossings at the Schoolhouse.


Toilet platform, waiting patiently to be completed.

No holes in the roof this go around - FANTASTIC to see!


No other wilderness signs like this one.....
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-31-2023 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-31-2023
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Flowing strong
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-25-2023 - by Jack Butler
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-25-2023
Surveyor Name:Jack Butler
Camp Description:Very nice camp, with all of the water flowing it was beautiful. Manzana Creek Trail was washed out beyond Horseshoe Bend, but you could just follow the creek and you'd get to where you needed to go. West Hurricane deck trail, on the other hand, was a nightmare; 5 hours of full bushwhacking through bushes and trees. Would recommend Manzana Creek Trail, would not recommend Hurricane Deck trail.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Flowing pretty strong, and has washed out the trail in some places
Weather Conditions:Sunny, mid-80 degree range
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-23-2023 - by Matt Inman - Ojai Valley School
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-23-2023
Surveyor Name:Matt Inman - Ojai Valley School
Camp Description:The schoolhouse still stands... please protect it. Sooo much water. Fences are down and the horse and donkeys are roaming wild now.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 11-19-2022 - by Benjamin Youngblood
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 11-19-2022
Surveyor Name:Benjamin Youngblood
Camp Description:There was no water at the school house but there were a few small pools along the trail. No water that you can count on. Bring all the water you need for the trip.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water at the school house
Weather Conditions:Low: 25 - High: 68
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-16-2022 - by Jason M. Tapia
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-16-2022
Surveyor Name:Jason M. Tapia
Camp Description:The Manzana fro Nira to Danby cabin has some pools trickles in some areas and flows gently in other areas. on 5/13th to 15th there was only 2 other water holes after the cabin. There was no water at the school house or in the Sisquac so BRING WATER. Also quite a few ticks, and LOTS of fox tails so watch the dogs we had to use tweezers to get several out
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:NO FLOW BEYOND DANBY CABIN
Weather Conditions:90 deg
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-14-2022 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-14-2022
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:The schoolhouse roof needs fixing to prevent additional deterioration of this historical landmark.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Dry at campsite but there is water at last creek crossing and downstream from toilet.
Weather Conditions:Sunny with day temps in 60s and night temps in 50s
Images:

Dry Manzana River at Camp.

Schoolhouse


Pool located downstream
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 03-27-2022 - by Ryan Galusha
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 03-27-2022
Surveyor Name:Ryan Galusha
Camp Description:
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Manzana Creek was at a trickle and Sisquoc River completely dry before Manzana
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 02-04-2022 - by Stephen S
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 02-04-2022
Surveyor Name:Stephen S
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 02-02-2022 - by Stan A
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 02-02-2022
Surveyor Name:Stan A
Camp Description:Good water. Grass is tall and green throughout camp. Schoolhouse in good shape. Nobody in camp.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Flowing well. Accessible all around camp.
Weather Conditions:Mid 60's, Sunny.
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-24-2022 - by Nathan Seaford
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-24-2022
Surveyor Name:Nathan Seaford
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Manzana and Sisquoc flowing strong
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-10-2021 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-10-2021
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 03-20-2021 - by Sonia
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 03-20-2021
Surveyor Name:Sonia
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Manzana Flowing - Sisquoc Dry
Weather Conditions:Sunny and warm
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 03-18-2021 - by Jeremy K
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 03-18-2021
Surveyor Name:Jeremy K
Camp Description:It's beautiful out.  Everything is green. Plenty of water. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Good Water Flow
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 02-28-2021 - by Tom Maccianti
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 02-28-2021
Surveyor Name:Tom Maccianti
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Plenty of water in the Manzana and still some, though less flowing at that part of the Sisquoc
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-14-2021 - by colbycheesevta
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-14-2021
Surveyor Name:colbycheesevta
Camp Description:The schoolhouse was completely dry ... If you desire to camp here your last water source will be some stagnant water about 2 miles from the camp. 
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-13-2021 - by Easy-A
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-13-2021
Surveyor Name:Easy-A
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water at the campsite. Stagnant water near Dabney Cabin.
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-01-2021 - by Shaddus Maximus
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-01-2021
Surveyor Name:Shaddus Maximus
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Nearest water is up canyon around the Dabney Cabin.
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 10-28-2020 - by Tony G.
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 10-28-2020
Surveyor Name:Tony G.
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water in camp, fill up and carry extra water from near Dabney Cabin for the last 1 1/2 to 2 miles.
Weather Conditions:high 70, low 38, clear, no wind
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 07-02-2020 - by Sparta FC
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 07-02-2020
Surveyor Name:Sparta FC
Camp Description:We found water down stream beyond the privy but there was a rattlesnake in possession of the entry point.  Surprised the rattlesnake and he had no intention of leaving over next half hour. 

Hiked 3/8 miles back up trail to get water at last crossing with water.  Water was low there but was able to pump (expect water here will dry up soon and next spot would be 1/2 mile or further back).
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:The creek was completely dry
Weather Conditions:
Images:

Illustration of completely dry creek

Water downstream of School (with rattlesnake)


Rattle Snake
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 06-08-2020 - by Ryan Anderson
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 06-08-2020
Surveyor Name:Ryan Anderson
Camp Description:It can get pretty hot during the day. I went schoolhouse to white ledge via hurricane deck and would have been in trouble had I not packed extra water (6 liters). Schoolhouse camp can be deceiving as it is shady and cool and may coerce you to hike "the deck". If it is a warm day just know that it will be very harsh at the top.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Images:

Creek at Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-02-2020 - by Duane Waite
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-02-2020
Surveyor Name:Duane Waite
Camp Description:
Just quick note:

There is a busted floor board in the school house itself. Not sure who to report that to, but I figure someone here will know. It should be repaired to prevent further damage and to prevent someone stepping inside from twisting an ankle. It's a long walk back to the trailhead!

Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Ankle deep at crossing to Sisquoc Trail
Weather Conditions:75-80, sunny
Images:

Broken floor board just inside the school house door
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-02-2020 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-02-2020
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Camp sites are somewhat hard to pick as tall grass is present and the ground is very lumpy. One table is damaged. Creek is flowing. There’s a pool to dunk yourself. Lots of tadpoles. 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Images:







Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-20-2020 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-20-2020
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Campsite in great condition with plenty of flowing water. We returned to Nira by taking the trail along the ridge that connects to Potrero. It was very steep and there is no water along the way, but the trail is clear and there are some great views once you get to the top.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-04-2020 - by Jason Tapia
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-04-2020
Surveyor Name:Jason Tapia
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Water is flowing but if you are careful and have poles you can probably cross without getting your shoes wet. We did but also had to go up or down stream a bit to find rocks
Weather Conditions:Freezing or close to it at night. Mild during day high 50s low 60s
Images:




Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 11-26-2019 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 11-26-2019
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Several pines have fallen down. One of the two tables at the  creekside campsite needs to be relocated back to its original campsite. I dug out the toilet to extend its functional life. The register needs a new binder.  Let's consider restoring this famous landmark!
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:70s and Sunny
Images:

Schoolhouse Campground

Schoolhouse horse corral


Schoolhouse Riverside campsite

Schoolhouse history
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 06-17-2019 - by Louis Tremblay
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 06-17-2019
Surveyor Name:Louis Tremblay
Camp Description:Camps in nice condition, with all the amenities. Schoolhouse is looking great. Impressed by the number of condor trail hikers who logged in! 

Lots of flies but not too many mosquitoes. 

What's with the Grand Cheroke?! 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:ankle deep flow across whole river.
Weather Conditions:80s
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 06-09-2019 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 06-09-2019
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:Packers staged at Manzana Schoolhouse in support of LPFA Working Vacation.  Good water, camp was clean.  While we were there we fixed the horse corral and repositioned the wilderness sign, which had been knocked over by a downed tree.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Great water along both the Sisquoc and the Manzana
Weather Conditions:
Images:

Kristi Finishing Touches on Wilderness Sign
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-04-2019 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-04-2019
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Lots of great creek crossings to get here (we counted 34) all easy. Very busy camp site. Easy mostly level trail, plenty of greenery and shade throughout.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:ankle to knee deep
Weather Conditions:Low 70's during day, high 40's evenings
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-15-2019 - by Bastien
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-15-2019
Surveyor Name:Bastien
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-01-2019 - by M Schless
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-01-2019
Surveyor Name:M Schless
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Both Manzana and Sisquoc flowing
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-04-2019 - by Anthony V
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-04-2019
Surveyor Name:Anthony V
Camp Description:Pool past first green gate is last water source before the schoolhouse camp. Sisquoc river is dry. If you walk west in the riverbed about 1/4 mile you will also find another pool for water. Stick close to the bottom of south ridge where it meets riverbed.  
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:dry riverbed
Weather Conditions:clear 40-50
Images:

Manzana Schoolhouse


Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 12-27-2018 - by Norman S
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 12-27-2018
Surveyor Name:Norman S
Camp Description:
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 11-20-2018 - by Arlen Van Draanen
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 11-20-2018
Surveyor Name:Arlen Van Draanen
Camp Description:
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 10-14-2018 - by Dave H
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 10-14-2018
Surveyor Name:Dave H
Camp Description:
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 07-02-2018 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 07-02-2018
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Some escaped Sisquoc Ranch cattle were responsible for the cow pads in the river bed.
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:Mossy pool with cow pads 100 yards down river from the toilet
Weather Conditions:Sunny, low 90's
Images:

Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 06-17-2018 - by Brad Marston
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 06-17-2018
Surveyor Name:Brad Marston
Camp Description:
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:Disgusting cow-contaminated pool of water along left back of riverbed below schoolhouse.
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-23-2018 - by Spencer Plante
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-23-2018
Surveyor Name:Spencer Plante
Camp Description:
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-18-2018 - by IGTOFT
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-18-2018
Surveyor Name:IGTOFT
Camp Description:
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:warm, low flow
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-04-2018 - by Matt Inman-Ojai Valley School
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-04-2018
Surveyor Name:Matt Inman-Ojai Valley School
Camp Description:Big open campsites capable of handling multiple groups. Horse facilities.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Good flow in front of the campground.
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-23-2018 - by D. Robertson
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-23-2018
Surveyor Name:D. Robertson
Camp Description:Nice campsite. We had turkeys roost in the trees above our tent. Then in the morning a big Tom and two Jakes came into came and woke us up.  LOL 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Good quality and plentiful.
Weather Conditions:Temps were in the mid 70's with lows in the 50's
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-07-2018 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-07-2018
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:Lots of green grass from the recent rain.  Water flow doesn't taper off from Nira all the way to Schoolhouse.  I suspect the water will still be flowing into late May this year.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Good amount of water from both Manzana Creek and Sisquoc River
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 03-31-2018 - by Brandyn Gibson
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 03-31-2018
Surveyor Name:Brandyn Gibson
Camp Description:Beautiful weekend back in Manzana Schoolhouse camp. Everything is green, water is flowing, and the weather couldn't have been any better (mid 70s). Hope we get more rain so it doesn't turn brown and dry out in a month! 
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Plenty of clear flowing water after the rains
Weather Conditions:Clear and Sunny, ~74* F
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 02-27-2018 - by Mark Williams
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 02-27-2018
Surveyor Name:Mark Williams
Camp Description:There was no water at the Schoolhouse.  There was some water Stagnant after Dabney Cabin, and a Trickle before it.  We hiked from the Schoolhouse back about 1.3 miles to fill up on water.  We then hiked back to spend the night.  Rain was in the forecast the following days, so water may have increased slightly. 
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:Cold. High 60 / Low 28
Images:

Schoolhouse at sunset. 2/27/18

Dry Sisquoc riverbed. 2/27/18
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 02-17-2018 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 02-17-2018
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:LPFA Trail Project based at the Schoolhouse.  Over the course of 4 days we cleared portions of both the Manzana and Sisquoc Trails.  See those trails for specific reports.

We also repaired, re-painted and re-installed the San Rafael Wilderness Sign at the Schoolhouse.
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:Water could be found in pools along the Manzana but no water at the Schoolhouse or in the Sisquoc
Weather Conditions:60's by day, freezing by night
Images:

Before and after of the wilderness sign at the Schoolhouse
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-14-2018 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-14-2018
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:Camp looked good, one hazard oak needed to be cleared.  One group of campers.  
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Nearest water was up the Manzana near Dabney Cabin.
Weather Conditions:
Images:

View of the Schoolhouse Camp from across the bone dry Manzana.
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 11-27-2017 - by Dan Hughley
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 11-27-2017
Surveyor Name:Dan Hughley
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water to be found at the Schoolhouse. There is flowing water just before and after Dabney cabin in both directions.
Weather Conditions:Mostly Sunny 80s/50s
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-24-2017 - by Ryan Cheney
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-24-2017
Surveyor Name:Ryan Cheney
Camp Description:Lots of good camp spots. Manzana Creek is flowing well.
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:Manzana Creek flowing with algae.
Weather Conditions:75 sunny
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 12-17-2016 - by Matt Daily
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 12-17-2016
Surveyor Name:Matt Daily
Camp Description:
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:Trickling (nearly stagnant) near large gate just past Dabney cabin. Stagnant at crossing at Dabney. No water at schoolhouse camp itself.
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-28-2016 - by Cameron D
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-28-2016
Surveyor Name:Cameron D
Camp Description:River and creek near schoolhouse are dry. The crossing before the schoolhouse is also dry, save a small puddle which will be dry within days. Fill up at creek crossing a little ways (.5 mile?) before the last gate (or there's a small trickle just ~75 yards before the gate next to small campsite).

The trail to the Hurricane Deck is near impassible, see trail page. The trail up the Sisquoc river looked bad as well and I saw one group turn back.

There is however a seemingly brand new trail that forks from the trail to Sluice Box canyon right under the trees on the far side of wash that holds the Sisquoc. It heads steeply up the side of the valley before traversing to a couple of small oak trees and a great overlook up the Sisquoc valley and convergence with Manzana creek.
Water Source:Stagnant
Water Source Details:Near Dry Puddle
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-21-2016 - by James
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-21-2016
Surveyor Name:James
Camp Description:Fill up at the final crossing before reaching schoolhouse.  There is no other water.

A large oak tree is blocking the trail into camp.  Hikers can fit under it easily, but I do not think stock could get around it.
Water Source:Trickle
Water Source Details:Sisquoc Dry, Manzana dry after final crossing before schoolhouse
Weather Conditions:70s & sunny.
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-13-2016 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-13-2016
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:The Sisquoc is dry below Water Cyn but Manzana is flowing through to the Schoolhouse.

Report from FROG the Condor Trail thru-hiker
Water Source:Flowing
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 12-27-2015 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 12-27-2015
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water in Manzana or Sisquoc
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 12-27-2015 - by James
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 12-27-2015
Surveyor Name:James
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Last water at Dabney Cabin
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 09-25-2015 - by Serhiy Petryshak
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 09-25-2015
Surveyor Name:Serhiy Petryshak
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:High 90'
Images:

Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-22-2015 - by Paul Cronshaw
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-22-2015
Surveyor Name:Paul Cronshaw
Camp Description:Camp has multiple table sites. Not advisable to stay in the campsite with the two tables and dead oak tree (potential widow maker). 
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Last water source is two crossings below Dabney Cabin.
Weather Conditions:Sunny, Temp mid 70s
Images:

Dead oak tree at main campsite
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-11-2015 - by Tim Molloy
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-11-2015
Surveyor Name:Tim Molloy
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water at camp, but some water further up Manzana Creek.
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-11-2015 - by M. Jones
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-11-2015
Surveyor Name:M. Jones
Camp Description:

Historic Notes:

The Manazana School was organized in 1894. A flat at the confluence of the Sisquoc River and Manazana Creek was selected for the school site. Alvis Davis erected a building which measured 16’x 20’, sat on a river boulder foundation, and was constructed from vertical 11’x12’s. When enrollment increased, he enlarged the building 10' feet to the west and added six windows. The entire exterior was covered with shiplap cut from local Digger pines at the Davis-Spaulding sawmill. The school building was reroofed in 1990 by the Los Padres Interpretive Association. (Ontiverous, Erlinda P. pg. 342, 1990)

The Manzana School, was as a community project, founded by 11 families led by Hiram Preserved Wheat, a pioneer from Wisconsin supposedly gifted with the power to heal with his hands. This ability so impressed hostile Indians that they marked his wagon with a sign indicating that he was not to be harmed. The remains of Hiram Wells’ (Wheat’s son-in-law) homestead can be seen about a half mile below camp, on a hill above the Sisquoc. The ruins include a stone chimney and a grave of “Bessie” who was born in 1902 and died 3 months later. (Burtness, Robert 1981)

Hiram also started a homestead on the South Fork of the Sisquoc River near the present Lonnie Davis Campground—he later lived in Garey (Ontiveros, Erlinda. pg. 354 1990).



Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Manzana creek has low flow from Dabney cabin to trail head at Sunset Valley Road
Weather Conditions:Sunny and min-70's
Images:







Old Wells homestead
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 03-07-2015 - by Curt Cragg
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 03-07-2015
Surveyor Name:Curt Cragg
Camp Description:Camp is in good condition with abundant green grass in meadow.  Cleared large oak tree that had fallen in front of toilet area.  Worked on the Hurricane Deck trail above the switchbacks from junction at Sisquoc.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Closest water is currently one mile before the camp between Dabney Cabin and Cody propety
Weather Conditions:Clear, 70 degrees days, 40's at night
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 02-15-2015 - by Will
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 02-15-2015
Surveyor Name:Will
Camp Description:Great camp - lots of space, great views, fire rings, and benches.  Trail is in great condition.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Last water is at Dabney Cabin
Weather Conditions:Clear, mid-70s. Perfect weather.
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 01-01-2015 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 01-01-2015
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:No water at Manzana schoolhouse. Some flowing water at creek crossings over the first ~4 miles on the way to the schoolhouse from Nira campground.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:Weather was sunny and cold with temperature in high 20s at night
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 10-27-2014 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 10-27-2014
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:James Wapotich wrote about a recent trip to the Schoolhouse:
http://songsofthewilderness.wordpress.com/2014/11/02/trail-quest-manzana-creek-part-2/

No water at the Schoolhouse but there was water in the crossings around Dabney Cabin, which is a mile+ above along the Manzana.
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 05-04-2014 - by Los Padres Forest Association
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 05-04-2014
Surveyor Name:Los Padres Forest Association
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:Nearest water at Cody property
Weather Conditions:
Manzana Schoolhouse Camp Survey - 04-20-2014 - by Anonymous Surveyor
Link: Manzana Schoolhouse Camp
Date: 04-20-2014
Surveyor Name:Anonymous Surveyor
Camp Description:
Water Source:Dry
Water Source Details:No water at the Schoolhouse either in the Manzana or the Sisquoc.
Weather Conditions:

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Last Updated: Friday, March 27, 2015

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