Boondocking, get Cleveland National forest yearly pass for 30 bucks.
There are signs saying something about having to pay for an Explorer pass but the dirt parking lot was empty & appeared there was construction work on part of it... We parked there (no signs indicating not to or a cost, etc.) & had no issues; The trailhead is across the street next to the guard rail where it ends on the left. We would have been baffled if we didn't know that...
No charge, no facilities except a dirt parking lot with a picnic table
Thanks! Your answer is awaiting moderation.