Cotoni-Coast Dairies Near Davenport: BLM Rules for Trails, Bikes, Dogs and Overnight Access

DAVENPORT, Santa Cruz County — The Cotoni-Coast Dairies landscape stretches from coastal terraces toward the Santa Cruz Mountains near Davenport, bringing new opportunities to appreciate coastal habitat alongside restrictions designed to protect wildlife and cultural sites.

The Bureau of Land Management’s official visitor page describes Cotoni-Coast Dairies as part of the California Coastal National Monument. It encompasses roughly 5,843 acres of federal public land and includes streams, coastal prairie and habitat for coho salmon, steelhead, California red-legged frogs and other species.

Access is not unlimited

The BLM says recreation development uses a phased approach and places substantial portions of the landscape in core habitat with limited public access. Before setting out, visitors should obtain the current BLM map and opening notices. A monument designation does not mean every trail, hillside or gate is open to travel.

The posted rules prohibit hunting and target shooting, camping and overnight parking, and recreational vehicles. Only Class 1 electric bicycles are permitted under the agency’s stated e-bike policy. Dogs are not allowed on the Wildcat Trail’s third loop. Other areas may have additional posted restrictions.

Why the land is protected

The region includes long-standing Indigenous cultural landscapes. The BLM notes that the Cotoni people occupied the coastal prairie before European settlement. The bureau continues to work with tribal partners on cultural surveys and interpretive material.

Environmental protection is central to the project: six perennial streams cut across marine terraces, providing riparian vegetation and corridors used by fish and other wildlife. Trails and visitor infrastructure must account for these resources.

Plan your visit responsibly

Check BLM’s access notices and official map; do not infer access from roads shown by navigation apps.
Check weather, wind and trail conditions before a coast-to-mountains outing.
Follow signed dog and bike restrictions; do not enter closed habitat.
For access questions, contact the BLM Central Coast Field Office at 831-582-2200.

The bureau’s information describes land management and visitor rules, not a claim that every trail is available for use without restriction today.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Land Management Cotoni-Coast Dairies official monument information and access rules.

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