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Vasquez Rocks was one of my favorite places to visit as a kid because of the huge and unique rock formations and its close proximity to LA. It is named after Tiburco Vasquez, a Mexican bandit leader who used it as a hiding place during the 19th century. The place is huge – about 500 acres – and has been used by Hollywood to film countless TV shows and films, including Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, Star Trek episodes, and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back. It is not uncommon to come across production crews filming in the area. I recommend staying a safe distance, or you’ll get shooed away.
There are about 30 marked climbs, due to the huge formations of rock and the size of the park. The park service that runs it requires you to get a permit for groups of more than ten and climbing is allowed only in designated areas. Last I checked, they don’t allow climbers to insert any type of gear into the rock or cracks due to past abuse, which pretty much limits you to top roping. I have heard from several different sources that you can get a permit to use trad or aid gear, but I have not tried this so your mileage may vary.
Access and parking is easy and there are a good number of campsites but restrooms are few and far between.
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