California · natural crag

Shady Rock

natural crag in California. Check officially sourced parking.

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Essential crag checks

Access, closures, permits & safety

Access

Use the uphill branch from the Chew Tooth junction and identify Shady Rock separately from Platypus. Use the sector guide to identify the correct cliff or boulder and stay on established access paths.

Parking

Use the signed Kirkwood day-use parking; California State Parks lists a vehicle day-use fee and 6 a.m. to sunset day-use hours.

Permits & access rules

The park currently lists climbing as open, but measurable rain can close climbing for up to three days. Stay out of San Lorenzo Headwaters Natural Preserve and check the entrance bulletin board.

Safety

Castle Rock sandstone is fragile when wet. Avoid climbing after rain, use existing access trails, and check fixed protection and anchors.

Closures and permit rules can change without notice. Recheck the official land manager before departure.

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Visit information and facilities

Editorially reviewedVerification sources 4Last checked 2026-10-03

Available facilities

  • ✓ Parking

Access, permits, seasonal closures and parking conditions can change.

Address
California, United States
Climbing styles
natural crag

About this crag

Shady Rock is a shaded Western Addition sandstone cliff near Platypus.

Recommended equipment

Bring equipment appropriate to the climbing style and local conditions. A helmet is strongly recommended.

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