Judge Davis Trailhead

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Judge Davis Trailhead is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and can be accessed via the Judge Davis Trail and Cache Creek Ride Trail. Judge Davis Trail has a total elevation gain of 12,800 feet and extends 10 miles to Cache Creek. Also, campers have the option to extend the trail for another 6 miles to get to the Red Bud Trailhead. The Cache Creek and Ride Trail and Judge Davis Trail provide an opportunity for hiking, mountain biking, equestrian riding, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Fiske Peak via Blue Ridge Trail

It is an out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet with great views of the surrounding area. There is no shade, but hikers and backpackers frequent it. The course is accessible year-round, and dogs are allowed only when on a leash. Some areas of the track provide an opportunity for birding.

Length: 7.5 miles

Intensity: Hard

Redbud Trail to Baton Flat

It is also an out-and-back trail, but near Clear Lake, California. The track is child-friendly, with an elevation gain of 938 feet, making it recommendable for hiking, walking, and horseback riding. Visitors can watch birds and other wildlife and bring dogs but on leashes.

Length: 5.3 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Cache Creek Trail

It is a loop trail with an elevation gain of 26 feet, common for hiking and birding. Dogs are not allowed on this trail, but you get a chance to view wildlife and watch birds. Some areas have shade, although most of it is open, allowing you to view the beautiful vegetation and a river.

Length: 2.6 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

The nearest place to fish is Cache Creek, home to the northern pike, rainbow trout, black bullhead catfish, and carp. The creek has rapid currents making it a favorite of many kayakers during the summer. If you prefer a more prominent spot to fish or go for a boat tour, try Clear Lake, 31.8 miles west of Cache Creek. The popular fish inhabiting the lake are crappie, bluegill, carp, and catfish. A fishing license is required and can be applied online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Wildlife Viewing

Judge Davis Trail should also lead you into the Cache Creek Wilderness, where you will get a chance to observe different wildlife. There are deer, elk, rabbits, wild pigs, pigeons, doves, wild turkeys, and black bears. Some campers have also observed racoons, quails, tule, gray squirrels, and mountain lions.

Hunting

The Cache Creek Wilderness Area doesn't require any hunting permit to enter, which makes it easy for hunting enthusiasts to access. Observing the California Fish and Wildlife recommendations would be essential to ensure you are hunting in the appropriate season. Animals available for hunting include wild pigs, deer, pronghorn, wild turkey, and elk. Also, you may hunt birds like quails, pigeons, and wild turkeys or head to the creek for ducks and geese.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Search BLM camping near me to find a campsite to reserve near Judge Davis Trailhead or around Cache Creek. A common finding for RV camping should be the Clear Lake campground which charges $52 per night per site for full hookups, showers, flush restrooms, laundry facilities, fire rings, and picnic tables. Middle Creek campground is another consideration with low charges at $8 per night and a recommended RV length of 38 feet (fifth wheel). It offers 23 campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, vault restrooms, water, and trash bins. Also, pets are welcome. A campground close enough to Cache Creek is the Deer Valley campground, which sits at an elevation of 3,700 feet. The nightly charge is $6 for each of its 13 campsites, offering vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, but there is no water. Campers can bring dogs but are advised to keep them on a leash.

Free Camping

Free BLM RV camping is possible around Judge Davis Trailhead, but there aren’t any amenities in the area, and you might need a valid permit to light any fires. More Bureau of Land Management free camping is possible at the Blue Oaks, Walker Ridgetop, and Mayacamas campground. Blue Oaks and Walker Ridgetop offer fire rings and vault toilets, but Mayacamas doesn’t provide any amenities.

RV Rentals Near Judge Davis Trailhead Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Judge Davis Trailhead BLM trip

Planning your meals is crucial for any BLM trip. For example, consider backpacking meals if you plan to go for longer hikes. It means packing ready-to-eat meals and possibly a folding stove to warm your food. Carry a stove if you must; otherwise, leave it in your RV and settle for meals that can be served cold. The next thing should be testing your gear before you travel. The best way to do this is by creating a checklist for equipment, so you don't miss anything. For example, if your camping stove is working and has enough fuel, mark it on the checklist. If your first aid kit is not adequately stocked, mark it with a cross if you can’t restock it immediately. Review your list one last time the night before your travel. Before leaving, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds must be left in the best condition after you finish camping. If you cannot find a formal camping area, it’s best to pick harder ground to protect fragile vegetation and soft soil. If you cook outside, clean the site, including where you eat once you are done. Also, put out the fire with water to guarantee the area is safe from wildfires. Don't pour water collected after cleaning utensils or laundry in a single location; spread it out in a larger area. By following the BLM camping policies and guidelines, you help preserve the environment of its best quality.

Judge Davis Trailhead Location

Judge Davis Trailhead is easily accessible from Clearlake Oaks, California. Once you are in Clearlake Oaks, drive about 17 miles east using Highway 20 until you see the trailhead on your right; if you are approaching from Williams, California, it's best to go west on Highway 20 for approximately 21.5 miles. It should get you to mile marker 40.67, and the Judge Davis Trailhead will be on your left.

Address: Bureau of Land Management Ukiah Field Office Ukiah, CA 95482

Ready to visit Judge Davis Trailhead? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, enjoying a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.