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.
Days on market: 64
Listing updated: December 29, 2025 - 10:54:12
Listed by: Greg Cruse DRE #02192281 949-492-5413, CENTURY 21 Affiliated - Orange County
Source: Orange County, MLS#: S319 Originating MLS: CRMLS
Make an offer
The multiple listing data appearing on this website, or contained in reports produced therefrom, is owned and copyrighted by California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. ("CRMLS") and is protected by all applicable copyright laws. Information provided is for viewer's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties the viewer may be interested in purchasing. All listing data, including but not limited to square footage and lot size is believed to be accurate, but the listing Agent, listing Broker and CRMLS and its affiliates do not warrant or guarantee such accuracy. The viewer should independently verify the listed data prior to making any decisions based on such information by personal inspection and/or contacting a real estate professional. Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of 2026-02-28 10:58:54 PST and /or other sources. All data, including all measurements and calculations of area, is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.
