Historic Creekside Cabin in Gated Forest Service Retreat – Hot Springs Canyon
This 1926 creekside cabin is part of a rare gated Forest Service retreat in the Santa Ana Mountains, just 12 miles from San Juan Capistrano along the scenic Ortega Highway. One of only 14,000 remaining in the U.S., it’s part of America’s first Recreation Residence Program—established by Congress and signed into law by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1915 to provide families with recreational experiences in our National Forests. The cabin and its improvements are privately owned, while the land is permitted through the U.S. Forest Service.
Set within the Trabuco District of the Cleveland National Forest and bordered by picturesque Hot Springs Creek, this unique retreat offers a tranquil, back-to-nature experience only minutes from downtown San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, and Dana Point.
Inside the approximately 1,100 sq. ft. cabin, vintage charm meets thoughtful updates. Features include an Oregon wood-burning stove, thermostat-controlled gas heat, in-wall air conditioning, skylights, and clerestory windows that fill the living spaces with natural light. The primary bedroom’s 16-foot bay window overlooks the creek in both directions, while a stained-glass window casts a warm glow across the smaller bathroom each morning. Three additional rooms provide flexible use as guest rooms, office, or storage.
Modern comforts include the availability of satellite internet, a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and a propane-powered backup generator—all while preserving the authentic 1920s cabin style. The current Forest Service permit is valid through 2028, with renewal approved through 2048.
Surrounded by pristine wilderness, this small community of just fourteen cabins enjoys privacy, shared stewardship, and an enduring connection to nature. No additional cabins will ever be built here—ensuring peace, quiet, and unobstructed forest views for generations to come.
Watch red-tailed hawks soar by day and listen to the owls hoot at night. Hike nearby trails, explore the creek, and experience a living piece of California’s natural and cultural history. Cash only sale. No financing currently available for Forest Service cabins. Listing has supplements. Please read.