Category Archives: Trailheads

30N16 – Lassen NF

Nanny Creek Trail
Lassen Road 30N16

30N16 entrance

Lassen Back Roads
Lassen Rd #30N16 – Lassen National Forest
Nanny Creek / McGowan XC
E of Mineral, CA

Narrow dirt road thru dense forest, connects Highway 36 to Lassen Route #29N22 (Dry Lake Trail) and then heads west to meet with Lassen Road 17 (aka #31N45)

McGowan at SR 36

McGowan Cross Country Ski Area (USFS link)

The McGowan Lake Cross-Country Ski Area has been in existence since 1982 and offers 10 miles of trails, 5 miles of which are periodically groomed.

Literally in the shadow of Lassen Peak, McGowan area trails wander through mixed conifer forest and are popular with beginning to advanced skiers. Elevations range from 5,020 to 6,200 feet. McGowan cross-country ski trails are closed to all motorized vehicles.

snow

XC Ski McGowan
click to enlarge map

NOTE: No OHV riding, nor snowmobiling on this route!

WINTER – snow fall begins as early as November and lasts thru May. Road can be muddy in late spring.

SUMMER – this dirt road is accessible by automobiles during warmer months only and is not gated.

campfire

A few dispersed campsites along route 30N16, within the first mile from the pavement (Hwy 32). These precious few camps are usually in high demand during summer months! Head up hill a few more miles, deeper into the forest and find a real secluded site, dispersed style.  Campfire Permits are always required for back country fires; found at nearest ranger station USFS in Mineral, CA

camp

boondock lassen

The first portion is a 2.1 mile long dirt road follows Nanny Creek about a mile, then it banks left, uphill to meet with 29N22. Sugar Pine Trailhead is located on this upper section of 30N16; a small wooden sign in a dense thicket can be seen on right side of road.

Sugar Pine Trail on GoogleMaps

gravel road summer

Junction with 29N22
#30N16 @ wide intersection w/ #29N22 – right turn for McGowan Lake, Christie Hill and the Volcanic National Park.

Road 30N16 continues westbound – Left turn for Heart Lake Trailhead, secluded boondock campsites and eventually, this dirt road ends @ Lassen Road 17 (#31N45) which is also a dirt road (and locally known as the Viola-Mineral Road), connecting Hwy 44 to Hwy 36.

DEEP SNOW can keep these dirt roads closed well into summer months, depending on the snow year. Keep this in mind when planning any early season recreation.

hiker

Broke Off Trail Lane intersects this 30N16 road right at the highway (36). It is the hard left that heads steeply up the rocky incline and skirts the highway headed west; Connects to the White Fir Lane road system above the small town of Mineral, CA.

30N16 sign

locations nearby:

Algoma Campground

Free campground, east of McCloud, CA

NFS Campground Algoma >>> McCloud Creek becomes McCloud River a few miles downstream from this small camp. Aspen grove, one lane bridge, dirt back roads, river hiking trail, fishing, creek wildflowers.

NOTE: This campground is NOT near the waterfalls, and it’s a 10 mile long hike to reach them.

algomacamp

  • autumn colors/aspens
  • camping
  • creek/river
  • hiking
  • hunting
  • fishing
  • mountain biking
  • off-roading
  • wildflowers
    camp

alldaylong

Park that chair in the creek and relax all day long.

lastalgoma

dirtroad39N06

Grizzly Peak Road #39N06,
aka Grizzly Peak Lookout Road

vanlifenorcal
Van Life, on McCloud Creek @ Algoma

Algoma Campground NFS

• Elevation: 3,800′
• Number of Sites: 8
• Vehicle Accessibility: RV 24′ max
(trailers not advised)
• Toilet: Vault
• Piped Water: No
• Campsites Reservation: No
• Length of Stay: 14 Days
• Season: May – October
• Trailheads: McCloud River Trail
• Operated By: NFS
• Closest Town: McCloud, CA

hiker

From McCloud @ Highway 89: Drive 13+ miles (east), past CalTrans warehouse.

TIP: The turn-off for Algoma (Stouts Meadow) is NOT SIGNED from the highway. Rangers recommend turning at the cross country skier sign, but that sign is so small and faded, you can barely even see it. The paved road intersection is the only one around, so it is hard to miss if driving slow, under 50 mph. Turn right off the highway, and drive 1 mile to the campground at bridge.

rangerOnly two campsites on north side of bridge, and the rest are on the other side of the river. Algoma Bridge may be closed, so you can park and walk across to reach the campsites. Call ahead to find out current conditions.

McCloud Ranger Station
530-964-2184

Algoma Bridge
Algoma Bridge over McCloud Creek, California

fish

Rock Creek California

rockycreek

Rock Creek, CA
California Rock Creeks

Due the nature of gravity, erosion and heavy rocks, creek beds tend to be rocky ravines near mountains – which collect rocks as they slide downhill. Creeks work as water drainage off the mountains. Inside California we have plenty of mountain ranges and plenty of movement, as the Pacific plate plows into North America, tectonically speaking.

How many Rock Creeks are inside the golden state of California? Heck, I dunno. Let’s try to find them all.

winterlodge

Probably the best known, is the one near Mammoth Lakes, CA

Eastern Sierra

Small Beach at Rock Creek Lake

Rock Creek @ Mammoth

Rock Creek Road, Eastern Sierra
Inyo National Forest
Road #4S12
ROCK CREEK LAKE
NFS CAMPGROUND (9600′ elev w/ 66 sites)
GROUP CAMPGROUND (reservations required)
RESORTS
CABIN RENTALS
Road #6S05
WILDERNESS TRAILHEADS – Mosquito Flat, Little Lakes Valley Trailhead, Mono Pass, Morgan Pass, John Muir Trail (JMT), Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)

US395

US 395 @ Rock Creek exit is Toms Place, CA

rockcreeklakeresort

fallflames
Eastern Sierra Rock Creek Rd
ruggedwalls
Rock Creek Canyon, Eastern Sierra

driftwood

Northern Sierra

camp

Plumas National Forest – west of QUINCY, CA

Dirt road campground

NFS Rock Creek Campground @ Plumas, located on a dirt road #24N28, off of paved Bucks Lake Road

NFSlogo

DIRT ROADS
MEADOW
CREEK

nearby WILDFIRE BURN SCAR

hiker

Feather River Canyon

Rock Creek, Highway 70
North fork Feather River

Large feeder creek from the north side of highway (California SR 70), in Plumas National Forest. Located in the popular railroad canyon known as the Feather River Canyon. Right here Rock Creek even has a reservoir.

Sugar Loaf Mountain elev 3553′ with Tobin Ridge line each side of Rock Creek as it descends the mountain tops. The junction where the creek meets the big river is just south of Bucks Creek Power Station @ STORRIE, CA. The overall location is half way in between OROVILLE, CA and QUINCY, CA

driftwood

Western Sierra

Off Road Gold Country, Sierra foothills

Rock Creek, Western Sierra4x4
Eldorado National Forest
HIKING & HORSEBACK
OHV TRAILS
4×4 CAMPS
Georgetown, CA
RUBICON TRAIL @ LOON LAKE

RockCreekOHV

 

driftwood

Southern Sierra

How can we forget creek camping & trail access south of Shaver?

bald mtn
Jeepers on granite @ Bald Mountain, above Shaver Lake, CA

Shaver Lake, Sierra National Forest

Rock Creek Road, Southern Sierra
Dinkey Creek Area
Sierra National Forest
PRIMITIVE, DISPERSED CAMPING
4×4 TRAILS
BALD MOUNTAIN elev 7832′
DINKEY DOME elev 7697′
DUSY IRSHIM TRAIL
Shaver Lake, CA

driftwood

But wait, we have more California Campgrounds named Rock Creek

camp

Mammoth Reservoir
Mammoth Pool Reservoir

Rock Creek Campground – Mammoth Pool Reservoir, south of Yosemite National Park, behind Bass Lake, CA Sierra National Forest (18 camp sites)

Rock Creek Campground – US Hwy 101 NorCal Redwood forests, north of Leggett, CA. Camp located on the Eel River, in the Standish Hickey State Recreation Area. (36 camp sites)

Also the is a small ROCK LAKE located inside Lakes Basin Recreation Area, northern Gold Country @ Yuba River headwaters. Hike-in access only.

Rock Front OHV

Similarly named ROCK FRONT RANCH is 4×4 trails & 4WD camping area. Cool wind caves, super steep driving terrain (Granny low anyone?) and of course, wildflowers.

Los Padres National Forest 

Off Highway 166, east of the city of Santa Maria & US 101 – on the Central Coast of California. Way back there, at the edge of the forest, behind the wineries!

Rock Front Los Padres
Rock Front Ranch in Los Padres NF

dirtbikes

 

Carrizo Gorge Goat Trestle

,Carizzo Gorge

Carrizo Gorge Goat Trestle – via Mortero Wash. Near the south end of Anza Borrego State Park is the infamous ‘goat trestle’, one of the largest wooden rail road trestles in the US.

giant trestle desert

This hike can be reached by driving N on San Diego County Road S2 (from I-8) into Anza Borrego Desert State Park. Near the park boundary keep your eyes peeled for Mortero Canyon Rd (signed) on the left side. This is a sandy, one-lane, dirt road, accessible by passenger car, that leads out to the train tracks & then past to the Mortero Big Boulder campsites. Park at rail road tracks near water tank & start hike from here.

NOTE: Do not be alarmed if you happen to see NUDE hikers coming from the opposite end of this railway, where a nudist resort is located along Interstate 8, called De Anza Springs.

hike bike primitive camp sites

Carrizo Gorge Trestle
Railroad Tunnels, near Anza Borrego Desert

rail road history

San Diego & Arizona Eastern Railroad ­ SD&A/SD&AE

Ground was broken on September 7, 1907 by San Diego’s Mayor, John Forward and the construction of the 140 mile route was completed on November 15, 1919. The first through train was the called the “Golden Spike Limited”, named after the $286 golden spike, which John D Speckels drove into the ground near tunnel #8.

  • The Goat Canyon Trestle was built in 1932 to re-route tracks due to a landslide.
  • Passenger Cars Ran until 1951.
  • The route through Carriso Gorge was closed temporarily by Tropical Storm Kathleen in September of 1976.
  • And was reopened 1981, and then closed again by recurring storms.
  • Kyle Railways ran freight cars until mid 1984.

train

The Carriso Gorge section has fallen into disrepair with two trestles being burned and the collapse of two tunnels as the result of fires. The trestles have been rebuilt and one of the tunnels has been repaired – however,  this scenic section of track is used mostly by hikers and mountain bikers.

Goat Trestle Anza Borrego Desert

Other Facts: Derailed cars are from 1984 and were filled with bags of cement. Laborers were brought in to unload the cement but the cars were left. The Goat Canyon Trestle is 185″ tall and 600″ long. During its use it was the tallest wooden structure in daily use. Hence, this trestle was designated a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1986. Carrizo means “reed grass” in Spanish. Total cost of construction was $18 million.

In 1979 the SD & AE west of Plaster City was sold to the Metropolitan Transit Development Board for $18.1 million. SD&A was said to stand for “Slow, Dirty and Aggravating” generally because of the high temperatures, smoke and open windowed trains cars.

South end of Anza Borrego State Park
Dispersed camping
Dispersed camping (for free) in the Boulders

califrepublic

see more
RailRoads & Historic Train Towns in California

Eastern Sierra Lakes

Camping Lakes – Campground Lakes
Lake Eastern Sierra California

There is not enough room on this web site to list every single alpine lake in the majestic Eastern Sierra range, since there are hundreds, but we highlight a few of the hike-in accessible ones & the more popular camping lakes below.

DSCN0100

June Lake Loop is a paved, scenic drive highway that has multiple lakes with cabin rentals, camping, fishing, boat rentals. One of the best places to spend autumn looking for fall colors among the aspens.

DanaMite also knows a picture is worth 1000 words, so just click links for photos & enjoy!!!

convict lake Eastern SierraLone Pine Lakes include –

  • Diaz Lake (on US Hwy 395)
  • Cottonwood Lakes camping (hike in)
  • Lone Pine Lake (hike in)

Onion Valley camping
@ Independence, CA
Kearsarge Lakes include –

(all are hike-in lakes)

 

mountains

Bishop Lakes include – (Hwy 168)

ROCK CREEK CANYON
US 395

Paved road dead ends at over 9000′ elevation
Wilderness Access w/ Trailheads & Parking
NFS Campgrounds
Remote Cabin Resorts

hiker

LAKE CROWLEY CA

CONVICT LAKE CA

Mammoth Lakes include – (Hwy 203)

Walker Lake @ June Lake Loop
Walker Lake @ June Lake CA

June Lake Loop includes – (Hwy 158)

MONO LAKE CA

US 395 @ LEE VINING, CA
Yosemite NP [EAST ENTRANCE]
Tioga Pass Lakes include –
(Hwy 120)

califrepublic

LUNDY LAKE CA

Bridgeport, CA

NatGeo Mammoth MapEastern Sierra topographic trail maps to lakes

Mono Maloy

Mortero Wash

Anza Borrego Desert State Park / Mortero Wash

San Diego Desert Camping

south anzaxterrayellow

Primitive desert car camping close to SD

fireboulders

Interstate 8 EAST from SD / exit Ocotillo. SD county road # S2, the south end near the State Park boundary. Gorgeous every season but summer. Great winter camping close to SoCal.

This  dirt road is located in a desert wash area, which starts west – off the paved road S2. The signed white desert wash is a suitable drive for passenger cars (most years). But you best have 4×4 if the rain gets going good. Low riders should watch for the ridge lines – as they are naturally rockier places and could take out an oil pan of a mini SUV (at a high rate of speed).

mortero campsThe giant boulders garden at the far end of this route have nice views of the Imperial desert floor. Better from the top of the boulders too; numerous primitive camp sites are tucked into the coves, surrounding the big boulders.

No toilets; no shade; no water; minimal vegetation. At night the stars are heavenly, but you can see city lights from Calexico and Mexicali.

train

GOAT TRESTLE?

From this area you can hike or mountain bike up to the “old goat trestle” and numerous historic train tunnels @ Carrizo Gorge Goat Trestle (not to be confused w/ the wildflower destination called Carizo Plains in Kern Co). BRING A HARD COPY topographic MAP of this area, if you wish to explore past camp. Moderate hike, an all day adventure. Bring lunch and water!

bike on railroad

Tom Harrison Anza MAPSAN DIEGO Backcountry Map
this waterproof map has the entire State Park covered with all back roads, trailheads, campgrounds and railroad tracks

artistsview

bouldertents

When you decide to stop the car, look around for the best spot. Park off the road way and preferably in a turn out or camp spot. Turn off the engine, get out of the automobile, stretch your legs, breathe, look, close your eyes – tight and breathe deeply, then open and look around you again. This particular place is special, you can just feel it. Walking around the boulder area, be cautious of snakes.

On the boulders – closely examine them, climb on them, get to the top; you will find (Native American) Indian grinding holes called mortars or morteros.

gethigher

great side trip option: Across the paved road (SD County Road S2) on the opposite side of the valley is a nice hike to Sand Dollar Hill. (I’m sure this isn’t the real name). Dirt road leads up to a dirt parking area for hikers. Busy lil place sometimes. These desert dirt hills have wind caves and chunks of sand dollars scattered all over them. The real ocean floor way out here, east in the Anza SD desert… how cool is that?

great side trip option: Canon Sin Nombre is just up the road a piece, N on S2, on the EAST side of the road. Amazing viewpoint turn out, right on the highway, overlooking the impressive topography and badlands. If you have a high clearance SUV or any truck you can drive down into the sandy tight, rocky wash. It meets back up with another main wash way back there.

Tons to explore back here. Off roader should think Tread Lightly on this turf and primitive car campers should use a Leave No Trace approach. White sand, deep sand, caves, smoke trees, and the best slot canyon climbing & hiking this side of the Anza Borrego State Park.

desert views

Trinity Alps Wilderness

NorCal Mountains – Trinity Alps Wilderness

Sapphire Lake -- Suicide Ridge -- Trinity Alps

525,627 acres

North of Weaverville & Lewiston, about 10 miles
West of Trinity Lake & Redding, CA
Headwaters of the Trinity River & the Salmon River

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Thompson Peak – 9002′ elevation
Trinity Mountain – 6094′
Granite Peak – 8091′

Trinity is NorCal’s jewel of alpine lakes and granite peaks – many above 8000′ elevation, about 40 miles inland from the ocean. Trinity is located in between the infamous redwood coast and the I-5 corridor. Rivers, creeks, lakes, and trails into the high elevations regions, bqckpackers and equestrian campers alike.

trinityalps_lgHiking trailheads are accessed from all sides -On the east side you have Trinity Lake & Trinity River w/ Highway 3 running lengthwise in a north-south direction. Hwy 299 runs east-west along the south side of the wilderness. Klamath River Hwy 96 lies on the west side of the wilderness. Salmon River, Scott Mountains and Cecilville are north of the alps.

Both the small Russian Wilderness & the larger Marble Mountain Wilderness are located to the north of Trinity Alps, along with rural towns near the Scott Mountains and the Salmon River. Castle Crags Wilderness is to the eastern side, near Interstate 5.

towns nearby –

camp

Campgrounds near Trinity Alps Wilderness

hike

Trinity Alps Trailheads

lake

Waterfalls & Lakes near Trinity

NFS


View Larger Map

The mountainous area is quite unique, as exposed granite mountain peaks and alpine lakes are pretty rare in the coastal Cascade ranges. The only other spot in California that has an 8000′ peak nearing the coast is just north of Los Angeles – Los Padres’s Mount Abel & Mount Pinos peaks, both over 8000′ in elevation.

TRINITY ALPS TOPO MAP

camp

The USDA map for Trinity Alps Wilderness was outta print for nearly 2 years and it has recently been updated and reprinted. New edition released in 2013 and now available at the Total Escape map store. Printed on waterproof map paper and updated in 2012.

California Aspens

AspenGroves

Aspen Groves are easy to recognize with their thick stands. White trunks with dark knots, slender, with oval shaped leaves. Growing in a network of roots, which are found lining creeks, alpine lakes, or spilling out from higher elevations, along  scenic canyons.

The unique round leaves which can turn spectacular colors in the fall season. The fluttering and flapping of the oval-shaped, thick, green leaf is a sure sign of summer. When breezes get cooler, Autumn is only a few weeks away and as quick as the cold comes in, what a short and special show they put on.

autumncabin
Green Creek historic cabin, on the Eastern Sierra

California Fall Colors

Aspen trees can be found at higher mountain elevations in California, usually above 4000′ – all the way up to about 10,000′ or higher, depending on the mountain range and local water flows. Groves have an extensive root systems underground, so they often withstand wildfires and can come back after the rest of the forest is gone.

Beavers build dams in creeks around aspen trees, fishermen and campers love to camp next to aspens, and lovers carve their initials into their white bark. These trees do indeed take a beating, from all angles, winter weather included… so stop from cutting them!

carvings

fishing creeks mountain biking stargaze Picnic Camp Hiking horseback back roads mountains

  • BIKE
  • CAMP
  • FISH
  • HIKE
  • KAYAK
  • PICNIC

summer and autumn

These deciduous trees are naked half the year, typically from November to April, as winter buries them in snow and ice. Time is of the essence, limited to Summer and Autumn – to enjoy their shade and the beauty of the groves. Scenic meadows and fishing creeks are just an added bonus for searching out the aspen.

Aspens can be found in hidden canyons, primarily along the Eastern Sierra US Hwy 395 and surrounding mountain lakes. Some Sierra Passes have decent displays of color as well – like Carson Pass Hwy 88 and Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Hwy 120.

Below is a list of Total Escape’s favorite aspen areas of California

ASPENDELL
BAKER CREEK (4×4)
BIG PINE CANYON – NORTH FORK TRAIL

BISHOP CREEK
BLUE LAKES, CARSON PASS
BLUE LAKE, MODOC

CONVICT LAKE, US 395
COTTONWOOD CREEK @ ANCIENT BRISTLECONES
COYOTE FLAT (4×4)

CROCKER @ LAKE DAVIS
CROWLEY LAKE, US 395

DUNDERBERG MEADOW

EAGLE LAKE @
ASPEN GROVE CAMPGROUND

GREEN CREEK ROAD, US 395
HASKINS VALLEY @ BUCKS LAKE
HILTON CREEK, US 395
HOPE VALLEY
JUNE LAKE LOOP

LAKE SABRINA
LAKE TAHOE
LAUREL LAKES ROAD, US 395
LEE VINING CANYON
LUNDY LAKE, US 395

MAMMOTH LAKES, US 395

MCCLOUD CREEK @ ALGOMA
MCGEE CREEK, US 395

MILL CREEK to MINERAL, CA
HWY 172 LOOP aspensofmineral1000

MODOC NF @ BLUE LAKE
NORTH LAKE, ASPENDELL @ BISHOP

ONION VALLEY @ INDEPENDENCE
PARKER LAKE RD @ JUNE LAKE LOOP
PINE CREEK ROAD, BISHOP

PLUMAS-EUREKA STATE PARK
@ UPPER JAMISON CREEK CAMPGROUND

PLUMAS EUREKA

QUAKING ASPEN CAMP, GIANT SEQUOIA

RED’S MEADOW, MAMMOTH
ROCK CREEK ROAD @ US HWY 395

ROSS CAMPGROUND, PLUMAS NF

SPALDING, CA @ EAGLE LAKE

TOM’S PLACE, US 395
TWIN LAKES @ BRIDGEPORT
VIRGINIA LAKES, US 395

WISHON RESERVOIR

aspentips
Aspen Tips @ Eagle Lake California

 

aspenwall
Green Creek Camping

Autumn Camping in California

 

amigoaspens
Laurel Lake Road @ 9000′ – Eastern Sierra, California

 

aspensplit

Fouts Springs

fout springsFouts Springs California

dirtbikes

2018 Mendo Complex Wildfire has affected this area. Expect some closures on trails and roads.

Stonyford Recreation Area
USFS Grindstone Ranger District
Mendocino National Forest

roadtofouts
Paved Road M10, Mendo National Forest

Fouts Campground NFS

Lat – 39° 21′ 35.05307″
Long – 122° 39′ 07.87442″

4x4

OHV

off highway vehicle use is abundant

Fouts Springs is multi-use recreation area on the east side of Mendocino National Forest. Located near the Snow Mountain Wilderness trailhead, this region is popular with the off-roaders and dirt bikers. Expect some noise if camping overnight on a weekend.

Excellent picnic spots along creek in springtime. Wildflowers bloom March-May. Campfire restrictions may begin as early as July, so know current fire conditions.

fouts water

fouts camp

camp

campground elev spots veg toilet water notes
Davis Flat Campground 1700′ 20 mixed vault no OHV + RV trailers
Fouts Campground 1700′ 11 mixed vault piped OHV trails
Little Stony Campground 1500′ 8 pines vault no OHV trails
Mill Creek Campground 1700′ 5 mixed yes no OHV trails
South Fork Campground 1700′ 4 mixed vault creek Stony Creek

Spring Fouts MendoFouts campgrounds are located on the EAST SIDE of Mendo NF on paved road M10. Situated below 2000′ elevation and open year round.

Road M10 Mendo
Road M10 Mendocino

TRAVELERS NOTE: Tent campers, RV and truck campers can easily access this area, all paved roads. Exit Williams or Willows on I-5 and head west. A decent back country map or Mendocino National Forest Map is advised; Numerous canyons, forested creeks and campgrounds. Always check with Mendocino National Forest for road closures and conditions.

dirt bike crossing

OFF-ROADERS NOTE: Use caution on paved access road M10, especially when driving with trailers or large RVs. Narrow road, long and winding with blind curves and no guard rails. Always check with Mendocino National Forest for road closures and trail conditions.

4x4

Mendocino Ranger Stations can be found on link below

NFSMendocino National Forest

foutspicnic

picnic

wildflower

Vallecito – Anza Borrego

Vallecito Park, San Diego Desert

Anza Borrego Desert

Great Overland Stagecoach Route of 1849

East San Diego County Road S2 winds thru the lower passes & washes of Anza Borrego Desert State Park. On the edge of the State Park boundary Vallecito is a small campground & park, but it was a stage coach route in the 1800’s.

California Historic Marker #304

Vallecito

VALLECITO STAGE STOP – A 1934 reconstruction of Vallecito Stage Station (originally built in 1852) on the eastern slopes of the mountains in the high desert. A super important stop on the first official transcontinental route, serving ‘The Jackass Mail‘, the Butterfield Overland Stage Line, and the southern emigrant caravans.

backpacking, birdwatching, camping, cycling, hiking, mountain biking, off roading, stargazing, wildflowers

camp

 

Vallecito Campground
elev. 1555′
camp sites: 44
overnight fee
first come, first serve
reservations accepted
Campfire pits, picnic tables, bathrooms, & historic buildings; 22 sites are tents only. RV 40′ limit; Additional 8 equestrian campsites w/ corrals. No RV hookups, no dump station. No piped water. No gasoline, no store, no amenities. No firewood, no collecting of firewood. No shade trees, just tall desert brush. Arrive adequately prepared for real desert roughin it.

RV

Vallecito Stage Station County Park
760-765-1188
37349 Great Southern Overland Stage Route
County Road S2 @ mile marker 34.7
About 3.5 mi NW of Agua Caliente Hot Springs

Closed during the hottest months of summer: JUNE-AUG. Open seasonally: Labor Day weekend through the fall, winter and spring, up until the last week in May. 

camptruck

see also – Oriflamme Canyon / Mason Valley Truck Trail

muck to stagecoachA neighboring and very rural stage coach stop is further down a long wash, to the south east. Getting there usually requires 4×4, since you must ford a muddy desert wash w/ creek & deep holes. There are no signs out in this sandy desert wash, so you best have a good map and a compass.

The Old Carrizo Stage Station site is accessible by 4 different dirt roads (desert washes) way off the paved highway. None of these are well signed at the highway: Vallecito Creek, Willow Creek near Mountain Palm Springs, Carrizo Creek near Bow Willow, and Canyon sin Nombre.

Agua Caliente, Bow Willow Campground, Canebrake, Sweeney Pass,  the badlands overlook, mud caves and slot canyons are all located south of Vallecito. California SR 78 and Blair Valley are north of Vallecito.

Vallecito Creek

San Diego Desert MapVallecito is located at the apex of the gap in the Carrizo Badlands created by Carrizo Creek and its wash in its lower reach, to which Vallecito Creek is a tributary. Once a seasonal village of the native Kumeyaay people, on a trail across the desert from the Colorado River, this oasis, became a crucial stopping place for Spanish and then Mexican travelers to recover from the desert crossing between Sonora and New Mexico to California. The non native settlement of the site began in 1850, as a camp with a one room sod warehouse as the U.S. Army Depot Vallecito for the supply of Fort Yuma. It was later increased in size and became a store, a stage station, and a ranch house. read more on wiki

find maps for this desert region –

Anza Borrego Desert Map

San Diego Backcountry Map

Cleveland National Forest Atlas

dark skies anza

califrepublic

Another Vallecito, California?

Yep! Small community of about 400 folks in the western Sierra Nevada  foothills. Gold Rush Country, mining region. Up off the Historic 49 and it used to be called Murphy’s Old Diggings.

see Gold Country Maps

Kaiser Wilderness

China Peak Hiking
Hiking near China Peak – summer 2002

22,700 acres
Kaiser Pass Road
Sierra National Forest

2020 wildfire: CREEK FIRE
has burnt the majority of this wilderness, roads, trails, lake shores and most campgrounds

Central Sierra Nevada Mountains/ Kaiser Pass & Kaiser Peak / Highway 168

One of the best cell phone coverage areas for any California Wilderness location, this central Sierra region is located south of Yosemite National Park and known primarily for Shaver Lake.

California Hwy 168, along with Dinkey Creek Road (southward) and Kaiser Pass Road (northward) leads off in all splintered directions to secluded campsites, rivers, creeks, lakes, developed campgrounds and amazing forest scenery. Off road trails and hiking trails, everywhere back here! But it is best to have several good maps for cross reference.

This Sierra National Forest region includes all hydroelectric dams and lakes surrounding Shaver and Huntington Lake, including Florence Lake, Ward Lake, Edison Lake, Mammoth Pool, Courtright Reservoir and Wishon Reservoir.

Dusy Ershim Trail 4×4 travels past Kaiser Peak and the cell phone towers. Several primitive camp sites with views on ridge. Numerous developed NFS Campgrounds out this way along Kaiser Pass Road.

Trailheads for horseback, hiking, backpackers, mountaineers, rock climbers. Snowmobiles love this amazing route when the snow is deep; some west coast winters can be better than others. Know before you go!

Kaiser Wilderness are granite mountain peaks, near Huntington Lake & the China Peak ski resort, formerly called Sierra Summit Ski;  One lane narrow backcountry paved roads: Kaiser Pass Road 80 (east of Huntington Lake) and Stump Springs Road 5 is West Kaiser (west of Huntington Lake)

Views in 2002
Sierra Views in 2002
WhiteFir Camp
White Fir Campsite
China Peak Hike Map
China Peak Hike w/ Map

hiker

Sierra National Forest

Kaiser Pass Road, elevation 9184′

25 mph – pothole paved, barely maintained one lane road, 20+ miles. Kaiser Pass is closed in winter months, but accessible by snow-mobile.

snowmo

recreation –
sierra National Forest map

  • backpacking
  • camping
  • creeks
  • cross country ski
  • fishing
  • hiking
  • lakes
  • mountain biking
  • mountaineering
  • picnicking
  • rock climbing
  • rivers
  • snow mobiling
  • snow skiing

Sierra Topo Maps

Sierra Map Tom Harrison
Sierra NF Map USDA
Kaiser Wilderness Map
Ansel Adams Wilderness USDA
Ansel Adams Trail Map
Dinkey Lakes Wilderness USDA
Dinkey Lakes Trail Map
John Muir Trail Maps
Mono Divide High Country
NatGeo Mono / Mammoth Map

surrounding wilderness and forest lands –

Ansel Adams Wilderness
Dinkey Lakes Wilderness
Inyo National Forest
John Muir Wilderness
Kings Canyon NP
Sierra National Forest
Yosemite National Park

National Forest & Wilderness Permits –

USDA Sierra NF

More Kaiser Wilderness Info & Links –

sierrawild.gov/wilderness/kaiser
summitpost.org/kaiser-peak
Kaiser Wilderness Wiki
San Joaquin River
Don’t Tell Anyone Campsites
Mono Hot Springs

kaiserpass
View from Kaiser Pass Trail – Huntington Lake in far back left

 

Samuel P Taylor Campground

San Francisco Redwoods Camping

Samuel P Taylor State Park
Samuel P Taylor Campground

San Francisco Redwood State Park

SamP is one of the large redwood parks north of San Francisco, CA. Coastal redwoods can be found in the mountains above Santa Cruz, as well as on the Point Reyes peninsula in Marin County. Hiking in the region is amazing w/ enchanted forests, dramatic fog, waterfalls, numerous trails in every direction.

califrepublic

One of the best developed campgrounds in the region for car camping and RV campers.

Consisting of several camp loops, a group camp site, a horse camp and hike-in or bike-in camp sites. There are even cabin rentals in the park. This park has several camp sites that can accommodate visitors with disabilities. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer months. Be prepared to pay hefty fees for overnight use.

RVMax RV Camper Length: 31′
Max Trailer Length: 27′

  • Creekside Loop
  • Orchard Hill Loop
  • Madrone Group Site
  • Madrone Cabins
  • Horse Camp
  • Hike & Bike in Sites
    (8 person max)

Marin Redwoods
CA State Park

Samuel P Taylor State Park
59 developed campsites
+ cabin rentals
Sir Francis Drake Boulevard
415-488-9897

15 miles W of San Rafael, CA

Samuel P Taylor

camp

hiker

nearby towns:

State Park link

nearby parks:

  • Mount Tamalpais State Park
  • Point Reyes National Seashore
  • Tomales Bay State Park

Bridge

21S94 – Sequoia NF

sequoia groves

Sequoia Groves: Forest Rd# 21S94
Sequoia National Forest

Windy Gap

SEPT 2021: Closed due to the Windy Fire

This impressive backcountry route is inside the newly formed Giant Sequoia National Monument. From the Western Divide Highway this graded route leads from an area North of the Trail of 100 Giants to the back edge of the Tule Indian Reservation. The 20 mile route turns north towards Coy Flat Campground (20 spots @ 5000′) & then meets up with Camp Nelson, California.

The Summit National Recreation Trail cuts right thru this region & there are many dirt roads meandering off of the main route# 21S94.

There are a few hidden Sequoia groves back here, great for day trips & picnic spots:

  • Peyrone Grove (via road# 22S91)
  • South Peyrone Grove (via road# 22S03 & trail #31E41)
  • Red Hill Grove

hiker

pinetree

nearby towns:

14S11 – Sequoia NF

trails to meadow

Big Meadows Road: Sequoia Forest Rd# 14S11

SEPT 2021: Closed due to the KNP Complex Fire

GIANT SEQUOIA: in between Sequoia & Kings Canyon, inside Sequoia NF

Sequoia Meadows

This chunk of National Forest land is perfectly located in between 2 very popular National Parks – Kings Canyon and Sequoia. This primary paved road leads to some great camping, a perfect option for NOT camping inside the crowed National Parks.

Turn east off of Sequoia ‘Generals Highway’ 198, on to the well signed Big Meadow Rd. There is primitive camping all over this area & a few developed campgrounds along this route. Motorhomes be warned: the road narrows to one lane with no “turn outs” or U turn spots for the last 10 miles (on a steep cliff w/ large overhanging rocks)

SEE CAMPING PHOTOS

campIn the first few miles, the dispersed camp sites on the right side have great views & some situated on fairly flat granite slabs, perfect for astronomer campers or adventurous RVs. To the left side of the road is more primitive style campsites in wooded areas. The whole area is also a very popular cross country ski & snowmobiling spot for winter recreation. Hunters also like these camps during hunting season (in September).

horseback

There is a developed Horse Camp on the left side of the road for equestrian campers. This camp is located across from the biggest meadow and may be the first place you notice on this drive.


Buck Rock Campground
(7600′ elevation, 5 spots) & Big Meadows Campground (7600′ elevation, 25 spots) are both family style camps, perfect for those who want picnic tables, plus bathroom nearby. Sorry no flush toilets out here, only pit toilets.

 

Sequoia maps

Buck Rock Fire Lookout Tower @ 8500′ elevation – is located to the north on Forest Rd # 14S02. It’s a great spot for some impressive views – if you aren’t afraid of heights. To reach the tower you must climb several flights of steel steps. This place is worth a stop if planning a sightseeing day.

Big Meadows Guard Station @ 7500′ elevation (also known as Big Meadows Cabin), is located next to the BIG MEADOW and is available for rent on a weekend basis from the NFS. Hiking Jennie Lakes Wilderness and fly fishing Big Meadows Creek are favorite activities to be enjoyed.

Big Meadows Road is long & narrow – 12+ miles. RVs are not recommended beyond the Big Meadow Campground, as the road is one lane in some spots & it skirts a cliff edge. The views are incredible the farther you go & many creeks feed the region.

The narrow, long paved road eventually forks off into several smaller dirt roads back near Horse Corral Meadow. Way back here, the dirt roads lead out to trail heads for backpacking, horse packing or day hiking in Jennie Lakes & Monarch Wilderness. Backcountry access to either Sequoia or Kings Canyon National Park! Have a good map if you plan to venture out this far. Pay attention & don’t get lost.

GPS would be helpful in this area. Some of the smaller of the dirt roads are not even on the NFS maps. Make sure to GPS way-point your favorite camp site, so you can find in next time…. in the dark.

Sequoia National Forest

Sequoia National Forest MAP

nearby services:

Sequoia Groves

see all – Big Meadows in California 

Marvin Pass Trailhead

Coy Flat Campground

Coy Flat Camping
Giant Sequoia National Monument

Camp Nelson California

se Campground

Southern Sierra mountains and the Giant Sequoias, inside Sequoia National Forest. In the Camp Nelson area, south of the busy National Parks.

SEPT 2021: Closed due to the Windy Fire

GIANT SEQUOIA HWY 190 – Western Divide Highway is the 7000′ ridge line that separates the Upper Kern River from the great Central Valley to the west.

From the San Joaquin Valley – get to Porterville or Springville, continue up the mountain on the main highway, to the paved road turn off (Road #22S94) on the right side of the highway;

After Pierpoint Springs and before Camp Nelson. This quiet campground is located off the highway more than a mile, so traffic noise will not be an issue for the light sleepers. (Unless of course, a loud 4×4 rig screams by at midnight headed to the backwoods, or a horse trailer cruises by at 5am). This camp does border the Tule River Indian Reservation.

Western Divide Campground
Western Divide Highway 190
Giant Sequoia Campground

Sequoia Road #22S94 is a loop road leading to many forest meadows, groves, primitive camps and trailhead destinations. Bear Creek and Coy Creek flow near CoyFlat Campground, which both merge north into the Middle Fork of the Tule River @ the highway.

Belknap Grove is nearby, with Black Mountain Grove a few miles further on the dirt back road (Road #22S94) as it continues to Bateman Ridge and Road #21S12, near the Tule Indian lands. Mountain biking, rock climbing, backpacking and hiking all great in this region.

22S94 continues in forest to 8500′ elevation @ Windy Gap, where the Summit National Recreation Trail intersects road. Popular trail among horse riders. 22S94 connects back to Western Divide Highway, in between Ponderosa and Trail of 100 Giants. Awesome loop drive for those seeking seclusion on the dirt roads, away from the tourists and RVs. Call ahead to make sure that the dirt roads and gates are open, before you plan a weekend vacation around it.

COY FLAT CAMPGROUND camping

Elevation: 5,000′
Number of Sites: 19
Reservations: YesCoyFlat Campground Sequoia NF
Sites Available: First come, First serve
Vehicle Accessibility: Vehicle 22 ft. max.
Length of Stay: 14 Days
Water: Piped; Seasonal creek nearby
Toilet: Vault
Season: Closed for winter months
Fee: Yes
Operated By: National Forest Service
Closest Town: Camp Nelson, Califronia

Sequoia National Forest
Giant Sequoia Ranger Station
559-539-5230

Due to the spread of invasive insects, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect our forests by purchasing or collecting firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site.

CoyFlat Sequoia
CoyFlat Campground – Giant Sequoia


Closed Indefinitely

UPDATE SEPT 20, 2021
California National Forests, most have re-opened.
See Sequoia Wildfires & Closures

pinetree

Twenty five years ago, when I began this outdoor web site for California, did I ever imagine ‘times like these’ – where we would be held up inside our homes during summer, as annual wildfires destroyed our vast and beautiful forests. Frightened to breathe the toxic, smokey air outside. Saddened by news of yet another town or historic structure burning to the ground. Checking the destruction daily online, in hopes of more containment, fresh photos or any good report.

Now I fear Total Escape  may become photographic documentation of how beautiful California once was.

burnt forest

wildfire closures

Most California National Forest are currently closed!

Lassen Volcanic National Park is CLOSED due to damages from the Dixie Fire.

In case you missed it: 2020 was the worst year for wildland fires in California history, but 2021 is shaping up to be just as bad. Many forests, roads, trails, campgrounds and parks listed below have been closed to the public for the 2021 season, and possibly longer.

BIG SUR COAST
Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP
Prewitt Ridge
Nacimiento Road
Lucia Restaurant
Tassajara Canyon

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS
Big Basin Redwoods SP
Butano Redwoods SP
Boulder Creek, CA

NORTHERN CALIF
Armstrong Redwoods SP
Austin Creek SRA
Mendocino National Forest
Lake Berryessa
Mad River / Ruth Lake
Forest Glen, CA
Salmon River
Six River National Forest
Snow Mountain Wilderness
Yolla Bolly Wilderness
Lassen National Forest
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Caribou Wilderness
Lake Almanor
Feather River (North Fork)
Susan River (near Caribou)
Trinity Alps Wilderness
Trinity River (W of Weaverville)

SIERRA NEVADA
Alta Sierra
Balch Park

Berry Creek, CA
Bucks Lake, CA
Butte Meadows
Caldor
Consumnes River
Dinkey Creek
Eldorado National Forest
Feather River (Middle Fork)
Huntington Lake, CA
Indian Valley
Greenville, CA
Mammoth Pool Reservoir
Mountain Home Sequoia
Plumas National Forest
Sequoia National Forest
Sierra National Forest
Shaver Lake, CA
Shirley Meadows
Silver Fork
Western Divide Highway
22N82 Forks of the Kern

aftermath
Camp Okizu

camp

Expect that campfire rules will be tighter in the future, overall. Campfires will likely be restricted to ‘only inside developed campgrounds’. Or only allowed during the wet season on the backroads or in the backcountry.

campfire

hazmat
My Front Yard (literally)

*Unfortunately, this is not a complete list of all the closures inside California parks and forests. I am adding more to this list, as more places burn. This page is a work in progress for autumn 2021

58 counties
58 Counties in Calif

Trail of 100 Giants Sequoia Grove

seqAmigos

The Western Divide Highway, at 6000 feet elevation, connects the Kern River Valley w/ granite peaks, dome rock, aspen groves & the Giant Sequoia trees! This is one of the southernmost Sequoia groves in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The easy hike is more of a nature trail, wheel chair accessible & approximately 1 mile long. Large Sequoia trees, picnic grounds, near campground.

SEPT 2021: Closed due to the Windy Fire

On busy weekends and holidays the rangers charge a “day use” parking fee, for those wishing to park in the paved parking lots. Avoid this fee by finding additional parking along the highway. Only a few good free parking spots along this busy 3 mile stretch of highway, and don’t forget to park all the way off the pavement.

SOUTHERN SIERRA: Great destination for camping families & sightseers traveling through the Southern Sierra Nevada mountains.

Western Divide Campgrounds

The USDA National Forest Campground across the road from the Trail of One Hundred Giants is called Redwood Meadow Campground. There is also a separate parking lot for the picnic grounds w/ a similar name.

Also nearby is Long Meadow, Long Meadow Group Camp, Peppermint Campground, Holey Meadow Group Camp and past Ponderosa. Quaking Aspen Campground and Quaking Aspen has a NFS Cabin Rental too.

Down near Camp Nelson, CA is the Coy Flat Campground.

Giant Sequoia National Monument has numerous dirt back roads for free, primitive, car camping. You’ll need a good topo map to find the best ones. Some roads may be muddy, overgrown or extremely rocky, depending on recent weather. Know you vehicles limitations. There is no tow truck service available way back here in the boonies.

Trail of 100 Giants Photos

All Redwood Groves in California

 

nearby towns –

Sequoia National Forest Map
Sequoia National Forest Map
Golden Trout Wilderness Trail Map
Golden Trout Wilderness Trail Map

Hidden Groves near Ponderosa CA

22S82 – Sequoia NF

Forks of the Kern: Forest Rd# 22S82 – Lloyds Meadow Road
Jerky Meadow Trailhead, Sequoia National Forest

SEPT 2021: Closed due to the Windy Fire

Driving north on Sierra Hwy N of Kernville, California; Passing Fairview & the Johnsondale bridge; After the R Ranch @ Johnsondale, take the right fork off the main highway, which goes deep into Kern River Gorge. This narrow & winding paved road skirts the Upper Kern River Gorge & the impressive Rincon Fault. Numerous primitive camp site can be found on dirt roads off this paved route. The pavement dead ends at Jerky Meadow trail head, which accesses the Golden Trout Wilderness & the Great Western Divide. Backpackers can get to the high country Sierra Nevada & Mineral King in Sequoia National Park from these trails.

Forks of the Kern

Boy Scout Camp Whitsett is one of the first places you pass, near Sentinel Peak.

The Western Divide Hwy runs parallel to road 22S82; way up above it @ 7000′ elevation – with destinations like Dome Rock & the Needles (2 very cool granite features) that overlook this Kern Gorge. The small community of Ponderosa, CA is also up there, along with the quaking aspen groves & the Trail of 100 Giants. Forest Rd# 22S02 connects paved route 22S82 to the Giant Sequoia highway above.

There are many primitive camp areas way above Kern River Gorge – all located on the right side of this road 22S82. Look for small signs for CAMP AREA #1-6. Camps 1-3 are great for RV campers with creeks & dense forests. Long Meadow Creek is one of the first of many streams, you will cross as driving this paved, winding, canyon route. Camp areas #4, 5, & 6 are the best bet for seclusion, plus awesome hiking trails to falls, granite pools & the impressive Kern gorge. Swimming holes are plentiful. Fishing can be decent at times. Many waterfalls can be found in this region as the tributary streams fall towards the deep granite gorge in the Sierra Nevada range. All roads off of 22S82 are dirt roads & most are passenger car accessible. Wetter months could be challenging. Some routes back here are considered to be 4×4 routes tho, so know your vehicles limitations. High clearance is needed to reach some camp sites. Summers can be busy.

This area was burnt from recent wildfires in 2002-2005, but the primitive, dispersed campsites near the streams are full of vegetation & making a nice comeback. Alder Creek runs down from the Sequoias, into Dry Meadow Creek nearby.

Lower Peppermint Campground @ 5300′ elevation, on the west side of the road, is the only developed camp ground on this main forest road. Lower Peppermint has 17 spots, piped water, & picnic tables. Peppermint Meadows & Peppermint Creek are adjacent to the camp area.

Lloyd Meadows @ Sequoia Forest Road# 20S67 – is the Forks of the Kern Trailhead & the dirt road that accesses it, is very popular among equestrian campers. Freeman Creek joins Lloyd Meadows Creek near Pyles Camp. There is a small developed campground called “Forks of the Kern”. Steep trail leads down to the granite gorge where Little Kern River meets the main Kern River; Rattlesnake Creek & Ninemile Creek also join the Kern River in this 10 mile stretch. Kern Hot Springs requires a backpacking trip.

Sequoia National Forest

Sequoia National Forest MAP

GOLDEN TROUT Wilderness MAP USDA
GOLDEN TROUT MAP (Tom Harrison)

Closest small towns are:

Los Coyotes

los coyotes SD

Los Coyotes Camping
Los Coyotes Reservation Campground

North County San Diego
Camping SD

Way out there, on your way to the Borrego desert, past Warner Springs somewhere is this little gem of a location. Near the southern slopes of Palomar Mountain, on the edge of Cleveland National Forest.

Los Coyotes Band of Indians Tribal Campground

open to the public

Great rural location, in-route to many destinations in Southern Cal. Temecula wine country, Warner Springs, Culp Valley, Anza Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs.

Campground is a popular spot with locals, so note that some weekends can get rowdy. Ask about a more secluded camp site option if needed. There is plenty of primitive land out here.

Oak trees and boulder hills, dirt roads, near Hot Springs Mountain. North San Diego County.

Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla & Cupeño Indians

Warner Springs, CA 92086
RECREATIONAL# 760-782-0712
ADMIN# 760-782-0711

payherebooth

snowx
Hot Springs Mountain SD

Silver Lake @ Lassen

Lassen Camp Site

AUG 2021

both lakes listed below CLOSED, due to wildfire 

Lassen Volcanic National Park is CLOSED also.

Silver Lake @ Lassen

(Lassen Co)

6400′ elev. inside Lassen National Forest
East of Lassen National Park

Silver Lake Road #10
20 miles off Highway 89. Northbound, outside of Westwood @ Lake Almanor, take County Road A21 to County Road 110 (Silver Lake Rd)

a21sign

Dirt road boat ramp @ southern end of lake. Winter weather & snow closes this area annually, so this lake is mainly a summertime destination. Mid-week tends to be less popular for those seeking seclusion.

  • backpacking
  • fishing
  • camping
  • canoe
  • hiking
  • kayaking

Hiking trails lead to Caribou Lake, Emerald Lake, Betty Lake, Trail Lake, Shotoverin Lake & Caribou Wilderness.

campground

Silver Bowl Campground NFS

• Elevation: 6400′
• Number of Sites: 18
• Vehicle Accessibility: small RV
• Campsites Reservation: No
• Camp Fee: Yes
• Toilet: Vault
• Water: piped/potable
• Length of Stay: 14 Days
• Season: May – October
• Trailheads: Caribou Wilderness

Lassen National Forest
Lassen National Forest
Almanor Ranger District
900 East Highway 36
Chester, CA 96020
530-258-2141

silverlassen

2 Silver Lake in East Lassen? Surely.

Only 12 miles apart. As the crow flies.

Largest is Silver Lake, south of Caribou Lake, Lassen National Forest. East of the National Park, accessible by vehicle. The popular one that is mentioned above.

camp

Small Silver Lake at 6600′ elevation, is a hike-in only lake. Inside Lassen National Park, west of Snag Lake and the Fantastic Lava Beds.

hiker

See all Silver Lakes in California