Tumey Hills
The Tumey Hills, located in the interior California Coast Ranges within western Fresno County and southeastern San Benito County, offer visitors a serene escape into rolling hills and valleys dotted with saltbush and seasonal wildflowers.
Known for its striking landscapes and unique geology, the area was once covered by an inland sea, leaving behind diatom-rich porous rocks as evidence of its aquatic past. Tumey Hills is also home to rare and federally protected wildlife, making it a valuable destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the area features day-use facilities and serves as a haven for hiking, picnicking, and springtime wildflower displays.
Destination Details
| Season | Best visited October to mid-April (Fire Season Restrictions in place mid-April to mid-October) |
| Location | Fresno County and San Benito County, California |
| General GPS Coordinates | 36.625851, -120.971358 |
| Trailhead GPS | 36.625851, -120.971358 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Size | Approximately 40,000 acres |
| State | California |
| Nearest Major City | Fresno, CA (approximately 50 miles northeast) |
Getting to Tumey Hills
Tumey Hills is accessible via Panoche Road, south of Panoche Hills. The area features two pedestrian walk-through gates for visitors when the main gates are closed during fire season. From Fresno, head west on Highway 180 and connect to Interstate 5 South. Take the Panoche Road exit and continue for approximately 15 miles to reach the area entrances. Visitors are advised to check the BLM website for seasonal restrictions and road conditions before traveling.
Destination Overview
Tumey Hills offers a unique combination of natural beauty, wildlife habitats, and fascinating geological features.
During spring, the grasslands come alive with vibrant wildflowers, including native species such as forked fiddleneck and miner’s lettuce. Visitors can explore the interpretive kiosk, enjoy a picnic under shaded structures, or hike the trails to discover the area’s rare wildlife, such as the San Joaquin kit fox, blunt-nosed leopard lizard, and giant kangaroo rat.
The terrain, characterized by bare rolling hills, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and a connection to nature. The porous diatomite rocks scattered across the hills are a reminder of the area’s ancient inland sea. While Tumey Hills offers a peaceful retreat for visitors, it is important to plan your trip outside the fire season, as motorized access is restricted during this time.
Whether you’re drawn by the chance to see rare wildlife, explore geological remnants, or simply immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of rolling hills and wildflowers, Tumey Hills is a hidden gem worth visiting in California’s Coast Ranges.
