CENTRAL COAST BLM FIELD OFFICE LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS 11/18/2025.

[OLD-skool454#3]

Not sure anyone ever goes target shooting out to Panoche Hills, but thought I'd share just in case

[TAS]

Much appreciated!

[C.G.]

Haven't been there in a while, time to visit again. Thanks for the info.

[OLD-skool454#3]

I'm hoping for a day off sometime this week so I can campout up there, but if not then this weekend. Last time I went I brought along my mobile reloading kit and shot, reloaded, shot, reloaded. Forgot the battery for the chrono so I just plinked around. I wanted to get a fire permit now that the nytes are getting cold, but with the government shutdown that may not be possible... I've run out of excuses for why I can't go so I gots to go now.

[Wicked K5]

But still no vehicle access beyond the gate at Panoche, right?

[OLD-skool454#3]

To be honest, I do not know about that...they didn't mention it on the BLM site. In the past, once fire restrictions are lifted vehicle access is open also. I am casting and reloading right now so I can go shoot tomorrow so I guess I'll find out then.

[OLD-skool454#3]

Ok, well I got a hold of a human at the Central Coast BLM office that covers Panoche Hills and NO, there is no vehicle access currently. The gate is closed at the county road due to conservation efforts underway. That sucks, I was about to drive 100 miles just to go see a closed gate lol. Well, now I have a bunch of loaded ammo...

[Jel]

Ok, well I got a hold of a human at the Central Coast BLM office that covers Panoche Hills and NO, there is no vehicle access currently. The gate is closed at the county road due to conservation efforts underway. That sucks, I was about to drive 100 miles just to go see a closed gate lol. Well, now I have a bunch of loaded ammo...

Still closed? We tried going there pre pandemic and it was closed due to some endangered reptile or amphibian they spotted in the area.

Glad we still have Tumey Hills which is a few miles away.

[OLD-skool454#3]

I've never been to, is Tumey Hills open to target shooting currently? Is 4x4 required, I wouldn't mind driving a few extra miles if so.

[Jel]

I've never been to, is Tumey Hills open to target shooting currently? Is 4x4 required, I wouldn't mind driving a few extra miles if so.

Tumey Hills should be open already, but I would call the same BLM office to make sure. Depending on where you shoot you MIGHT need a 4x4 especially if it has rained recently. If you stay within a few hundred yards of either gate almost any car can make it. If you want to head deeper into the area a higher clearance vehicle and 4x4 would be ideal.

YMMV. If you've ever watched Matts Offroad recovery on Youtube you'll be surprised how deep into the back country some people get with 2wd cars.

[OLD-skool454#3]

Cool! I called the Central Coast BLM field office earlier today at lunch and the gentleman I spoke with confirmed that fire restrictions were lifted for both Panoche Hills and Tumey Hills, however, only Tumey Hills is open to vehicle access so Tumey Hills it is.