About Clear Creek
Click here for more information on fire restrictions and the permitting process Overview of Clear Creek Management Area Clear Creek Management Area (CCMA) encompasses approximately 75,000 acres, of which 63,000 acres are public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management Central Coast Field Office. Topography is rugged with elevations ranging from 1,830 feet at Pine Canyon to 5,241 feet on San Benito Mountain. The Mediterranean climate is punctuated by cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Annual precipitation occurs primarily as winter rain with some snow occurring most years at the highest elevations on San Benito Mountain. Recreational opportunities include hunting, camping, hobby gem/mineral collecting, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking/backpacking, and sightseeing. Hobby gem and mineral collectors are drawn to the Clear Creek area, one of the most highly mineralized areas in California, by the presence of over 150 semi-precious minerals and gemstones. Among these are serpentine, jadeite, cinnabar, tremolite, topazite, neptunite, and the extremely rare California state gem, benitoite. There are two developed campgrounds in the CCMA, Oak Flat and Jade Mill, both with picnic tables, shade structures, fire rings, and pit toilets. You will find great views of the Central Valley and the Sierras in some areas, and you'll find yourself deep in the forest at others. Many places show evidence of past human activity, while others are so remote you might wonder if you are the first to travel there. Please be aware that there are many parcels of private land interspersed with the public land. Tread lightly and be courteous of the interests of others. Visiting Clear Creek Management Area Permits are required when visiting the CCMA. Please note that you may need multiple permits to access areas within the CCMA. Carefully read each permit description and use this chart to help you decide which permit(s) you may need. The following permits are available for advance
