Category Archives: California Rivers

4x4 Camps OHV, Back Roads, Backpacking, Camping, Campsites, Creeks, Fishing, Hiking, Lakes & Reservoirs, Mountain Biking, Off Road, Off-Road Trail, Picnic Areas, Sightseeing, Trailheads, Wilderness

Sawmill Lake Sierra

primitive camp spots

Sawmill Lake, California


N of Donner Pass, Sierra Nevada

elevation 5800′ – Canyon Creek connects Lake Faucherie, Sawmill Lake and Bowman Reservoir in the Sierra, Tahoe National Forest. 20+ miles of backroad travel, off I-80.

While many consider Faucherie to be the most beautiful scenic lake, Sawmill Lake just downstream a couple of miles is still quite attractive – with dense forests and a granite mountain backdrop. Sawmill is especially nice for those who like to primitive camp, ouside of developed campgrounds. Way off the interstate @ Hwy 20, tucked in way back behind Bowman Lake a few miles, you can find Sawmill Lake.

Sawmill Lake California

Fishing and camping, kayaking and canoeing are all popular recreation around this lake. A trailhead on the northend of the lake leads out to even more alpine lakes (a day hike “lake loop” or backpacking option). The Pacific Crest Trail is also routed nearby.

No motorized boats or watercraft allowed. No boat ramps, no pavement, no picnic tables, no bathrooms, no fees.

4×4 Lake
Fishing Lake
Free Camping Lake

The north shoreline is abundant with dispersed campsites: metal fire rings and a clearing only; no picnic tables, no toilets. Self sufficient campers only. Campfire permits, a water bucket and a shovel are required. During extreme fire restrictions campfires may not be allowed. Check with local rangers for up to date info.

Tahoe National Forest
Truckee Ranger Station
530-587-3558

National Forest Lake & Forest Lake Fishing Kayak lake hiking lake

Most campsites are drive up and park, while others closer to the shoreline have only walk-in access. Hauling your gear down hill won’t seem unthinkable once you’ve seen the lakeside views. There is even a camp below the dam, next to the waterfall.

waterfallfromdam

The main access Road #843-037 is very rocky and 4x4s love to frequent the area. The backroads here are best suite for truck travel, high clearance vehicles, off-roaders and SUVs. No small RVs or trailers. Passenger cars are not recommended. The access roads around the lake and up to the lake are dusty and rugged. The road below the dam is quite rough w/ rocks.

For more driving details, please see entry on Canyon Creek Campground.

road at dam
The water at Sawmill Lake is crystal clear snowmelt. The lakes around here are managed by Nevada Irrigation District, so this is why there are no engines allowed on the lake. This canyon area closes to public entry during winter months (NOV-APRIL), due to deep snow.

clear water

4x4 Routes, Back Roads, Backpacking, California Waterfalls, Creeks, Fishing, Group Campgrounds, Hiking, Lakes & Reservoirs, Off-Road Trail, Trailheads, Wilderness

Faucherie Lake

Faucherie Kayak Camp

Faucherie Lake California

Lake Faucherie is set in spectacular scenery of granite mountains, with peaks and waterfalls all around. Many believe that you could only reach this kinda high elevation beauty by foot, with a backpack, but here it is – accessible by a very long, rough & rocky backroad.

No motorhomes, no camper trailers, no motorboats, no engine noises on the lake, no big families. Just well-deserved solitude, finally. Peace and quiet!

Perfect alpine lake for car-top boaters – those who carry their boats on top of a vehicle. But be warned very few ‘passenger cars’ make it back this far, due to the challenging roads.

BACKPACKING, CAMPING, CANOEING, FISHING, FLOATING, HIKING, KAYAKING, OFF-ROADING, SOAKING, STARGAZING, SWIMMING

No motorized boats or watercraft allowed. One public boat ramp; gravel parking area, vault toilets, gated entry for group campground. No more driving across dam (it is now gated).

NFS NFS NFS kayak camp hiking mountains NFS backroads snowmelt stars

Faucherie Lake Road – a spur road, off of the ‘843 Road’ leads up to both Sawmill & Faucherie Lakes, as well as the Canyon Creek Campground.

This primitive road forks off at Jackson Creek Campground, Tahoe NF, way, way back behind Bowman Lake. The rugged route is also known as Nevada County Rd #843-037. Conflicting numbers appear on USDA web site for this route, so don’t get confused.

The brown Forest Service signage is decent at Jackson Creek Campground – so if you get that far, you’re almost there. Sorta. Did I mention how crazy the road is? Any wet weather or snow will make this route “4×4 required”. This place is closed off about half the year, due to deep snow (NOV-MAY). Although on summer weekends, this area is busy for a remote high Sierra lakes region.

To reach this rugged Canyon Creek takes hours of driving with a good backcountry map and a reliable, high clearance rig. AWD Subies and mini SUVs beware, you’ll need a spotter on the bad sections of this road (or risk serious oil pan damage). Or perhaps maybe, we “shouldn’t be back on these kinda roads in that ‘lil sportwagon’ missy.”

See more details on driving directions for Canyon Creek Campground.

Crystal Clear Faucherie

Faucherie Lake Group Campground
(25 people maximum per site)

• Elevation: 6135′
• Number of Sites: 2
• Vehicle Access: High Clearance Vehicle, no trailers
• Campsites Reservation: Yes
• Camp Fee: Yes
• Season: June – October
• Trailheads: Faucherie Lake Falls, Five Lakes Basin, French Lake, Haystack Mountain

camp
Faucherie Group Camping

Campground Reservations:
Nevada Irrigation District
530-265-5302

incoming flow

Faucherie Falls – Six waterfalls above lake:
Upper Faucherie Lake Falls #1: 39.4257 N, 120.5616 W
Upper Faucherie Lake Falls #2: 39.4257 N, 120.5606 W
Upper Faucherie Lake Falls #3: 39.4262 N, 120.5568 W
Upper Faucherie Lake Falls #4: 39.4268 N, 120.5550 W
Upper Faucherie Lake Falls #5: 39.4270 N, 120.5544 W
Upper Faucherie Lake Falls #6: 39.4272 N, 120.5538 W
USGS Topo: English Mountain

Granite Faucherie

California Rivers, Campsites, Sightseeing, Trailheads, Wilderness

Gold Country California

Gold Country Sierra Nevada

historic murphys hotel

1849:
California Gold Rush began

These foothill regions below are the rivers & mountains of the infamous California Gold Rush of the mid-1800’s. Many mountain dirt roads will lead to your secluded, private camp site, near a creek or river. Or plan on camping in a developed Campground near a recreation lake lined with amenities, pine trees & oaks. River rafting & kayaking can be found throughout this area, as well as backpacking, mountain biking and hiking trails. Fishing is very popular as well.

Waterfalls, back roads, granite features, historic mining camps, big fishing rivers all abound. Wilderness backpacking in the High Sierra can be accessed by Hwy 108 (Sonora Pass) Hwy 4 (Ebbetts Pass) Hwy 88 (Carson Pass), Sierra US Route Hwy 50 & Interstate 80. Numerous small towns populate Historic Highway 49 for every tourists need – meals, laundry, grocery, coffee, lodging & shopping.

waterfalls Sierra Nevada

Gold Country California forest & parks –

Hwy 4 Ebbetts Pass & Hwy 108 Sonora Pass

Stanislaus National Forest
Columbia State Park

Arnold, Columbia, Dardanelle, Jamestown, Long Barn, Mi-Wuk, Murphys, Pinecrest, Sonora, Strawberry, Twain Harte

Sierra Nevada

Hwy 4 Ebbetts Pass & Hwy 88 Carson Pass, US Hwy 50

El Dorado National Forest

Amador City, Bear Valley, Georgetown, Jackson, Kirkwood, Meyers, Placerville

Sierra Nevada

Interstate 80 Donner Pass

Tahoe National Forest

Alta, Colfax, Foresthill, Grass Valley, Norden, Sierraville, Soda Springs, Tahoe City, Tahoma, Truckee

Sierra Nevada

North Hwy 49 Yuba River

Malakoff Diggins State Park

Downieville, Nevada City

red brick alley

Backpacking, California Rivers, Equestrian, Fishing, Hiking, Lakes & Reservoirs, Snowmobiling, Trailheads, Wilderness

Bucks Lake Wilderness

DSCN0237

Bucks Lake Wilderness Area

Bucks Lake, California
Plumas National Forest

topo mapIn the hills and canyons above Chico many wonders can be found. North Sierra Nevada mountains, medium sized recreation lake surrounded by lush forest; N of Lake Oroville and S of Lake Almanor. North Fork Feather River canyon forms the northern boundary to this designated Wilderness Area. The area is popular with backpackers and PCT hikers, as well as equestrian and the region has over a dozen campgrounds. Backcountry terrain includes an impressive 6 mile long canyon wall.

camp Bucks Lake Campgrounds

hotels Bucks Lake Lodging

The popular boating destination, Bucks Lake reservoir, is just outside the wilderness boundary, which makes for an excellent destination for day hikes. Boating, fishing, backpacking, hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, snowmobiling and mountain biking are just some of the outdoor recreation in the area. This Wilderness region features a Silver Lake and Gold Lake, as well as numerous other small, unheard-of lakes. A few can be accessed by vehicle, but more than half are hike-in only lakes.

  • backpacking
  • boating
  • cabin rentals
  • camping
  • canoeing
  • fishing
  • floating
  • hiking
  • kayaking
  • sailing
  • swimming

    • Bucks Lake Wilderness
    23,958 acres
    5200′ elevation at Bucks Lake

    Alpine wilderness, mountain peaks, hiking trails, PCT trailheads, numerous small lakes, plus large recreational fishing lake

    Bald Eagle Mountain – 7183′
    Bucks Mountain Peak – 6819′
    Mount Pleasant – 7067′

    Small lakes around the Bucks Lake Wilderness Area

    Bald Eagle Lake
    Blue Lake
    Cape Lake
    Gold Lake
    Grassy Lakes
    Jacks Meadow Pond
    Kellogg Lake
    Lost Lake
    Mud Lake
    Rock Lake
    Silver Lake
    Snake Lake
    Smith Lake
    Thompson Lake
    Three Lakes
    Upper Mud Lake

    regional maps –

    nearby towns –
    Berry Creek, CA
    Meadow Valley, CA
    Quincy, CA
    Chico, CA
    Oroville, CA

    lodge and cabins
    historic lodge burnt down, but they rebuilt and are re-opened again

    DSCN0242

    more info –

    Bucks Lake Trailheads (PDF)
    BucksLake.net
    Bucks Lake Fire Dept
    Bucks Lake Wilderness Wiki

     


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    Back Roads, Campsites, Campspots, Creeks

    23S64 – Sequoia NF

    Sequoia Creeks

    Bear Meadow: Forest Rd# 23S64 – Packsaddle Creek, Sequoia National Forest

    For the more adventurous & ones seeking some seclusion, Bear Meadow is located up the dirt road a bit from Thompson Camp Spring . From Forest Road #23S16 @ Thompson Camp Spring – continue straight on the dirt road #23S64, cross over the one lane wooden bridge; within a mile, turn left into a secluded creek side camping area. Note: Bears are common here (hence the name Bear Meadow)!

    Packsaddle Creek runs thru this forest. Very primitive area with rutted dirt roads & sometimes overgrown; there are several campsites back in here for the ones who seek the wild. (Yes, bears & wild animals are very common way back here). If you continue on straight on the main dirt road Packsaddle Meadow also has camping spots & small corral. The last time we were out this way (2002-ish), the dirt road does not connect with highway to the west, as indicated on the map; due to landslide.

    Sequoia National Forest

    Sequoia National Forest MAP

    Closest small towns are:

    Sierra Creeks

    Backpacking, California Rivers, Campgrounds, Camping, Campsites, Campspots, Creeks, Equestrian, Fishing, Hiking, Trailheads, Wilderness

    Trinity Alps Camping

    Trinity Alps Wilderness Campgrounds

    Northern California Camping
    Shasta Trinity National Forest

    Trinity Alps Wilderness

    camp

     

    • backpacking
    • camping
    • fishing spots
    • floating
    • hiking
    • hunting
    • kayaking
    • mountain biking
    • off-roading
    • soaking
    • swimming holes
    • tubing
    • stargazing

    trinitydetail

    campgrounds near Trinity trailheads –

    camping Highway 3
    (California State Route 3):

    • Horse Flat Campground, near Eagle Creek trailhead
    • Eagle Creek Campground @ Hwy, near Stoddard Lake & Eagle Creek trailhead
    • Goldfield Campground, near Boulder Creek trailhead
    • Big Flat Campground (via Coffee Creek Road #104)
    • Preacher Meadow Campground @ Hwy, near Swift Creek trailhead

    camping Highway 299
    (California State Route 299):

    • Ripstein Campground, near Canyon Creek trailhead
    • Hobo Gulch Campground, on Road #34N07
    • Hayden Flat Campground, near Big French Creek & Green Mountain
    • Denny Campground, near Jim Jam Ridge, East Fork & New River; Way out west
    • Groves Prairie Campground, near Grizzly Camp trailheadtrinityalps_lg
    • Happy Camp Campground, near Grizzly Camp trailhead

    camping Highway 96
    (California State Route 96):

    • Tish Tang Campground, near Tish Tang trailhead
    • Box Campground, near Red Cap Lake, Bear Hole & Mill Creek Lake
    • Klamath Riverside Campground @ Hwy, near Salmon Summit

    camping Salmon River (Cecilville Road #1C02):

    trinitysign
    Trinity Scenic Byway (CA SR 3)

    NorCal Topographic Maps – Trinity Map

    Shasta Trinity National Forest Map

    Pacific Crest Trail Map #6 (Shasta Cascades)

    Trinity Alps Wilderness Map

    outdoor destinations also nearby –


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    California Rivers, Hiking, Lakes & Reservoirs, Primitive Hot Springs, Sightseeing, Wilderness

    Kern River Canyon

    Kern Spring Wildflowers

    Kern River Valley is one of the all time favorite Sierra Nevada destinations for SoCal escapees. First, it is the southern most ‘big river’ action for the Sierra range. The drive up from Los Angeles is easy access; only a coupe of hours. California Highway 178 leads from Bakersfield up the mountain to Lake Isabella (exit at 155 for Kernville destinations). The 178 continues east past the rural communities of Onyx, Canebrake, Weldon, and then on to the Northern Mojave desert & US Highway 395

    Second, Kern has an abundance of outdoor recreation, from fishing to boating, river rafting to kayaking, backpacking, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, camping, & soaking. Kernville is the “recreation headquarters” for the region, where you can find rafting outfitters, camping supplies and rental equipment.

    Kern Rafting

    Third, the mountain scenery is very diverse – with the dry shores of Lake Isabella, the granite lined Kern River, or the ridges with towering cedar forests, plenty sugar pines, plus a few Sequoia groves; Tons of dirt back roads to explore, granite & gorges for the rock climbers, prime wilderness access & several primitive hot springs.

    The whole area is encompassed by the Sequoia National Forest with wilderness areas to the North & East. Giant Sequoia National Monument is located along the Western Divide Hwy in the northern portion of the National Forest.

    campingFIND CAMPING along the Kern River

    camping Sequoia National ForestFIND ALL Campgrounds in the Kern River Canyon

    Kern River Valley communities include:

    Whether you’re an RVer wanting a developed campground near town, a fisherman needing a primitive site right on the river, or a backpacker seeking the high country, the Kern has a little bit of everything. High elevations beyond 8000′ ridge lines, or the lush Lower Kern under 2000′ with granite boulders lining, Kern has it. 4 wheelers will love the extensive network of dirt back roads, or maybe the OHV areas of Keysville. Lake Isabella has numerous oak lined campgrounds & boat rentals available too. Summer is not the best time to visit as the temperatures soar to 100 degrees & the city crowds come in full force to the Kern Valley. Springtime, the best season to visit runs from March to May, or Autumn cools for September to December.

  • SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST MAP
  • DOME LAND WILDERNESS MAP
  • GOLDEN TROUT WILDERNESS MAP
  • SOUTH SIERRA WILDERNESS MAP

    • KernWildflowers

    HoboCampground
    Hobo Campground in the Lower Kern Canyon
    California Coast, California Rivers, Campsites, Groves, Sightseeing, Trailheads, Wilderness

    California North Coast

    Northern CA Coast / Northern Coast of California

    The redwood north coast of California is very forested region with many rivers & streams running throughout. Fishing, kayaking, rafting, camping & backpacking are all superb here. The wilderness rules, as the majority of the landscape is wild & untouched by development. Mountain ranges near the north California coast span in elevation from 1000′ to 8000′. The Klamath River, Eel River & Trinity River are the predominate waterways in this region, with designated National Forest lining their canyons. There are over 10 parks along the coast that feature the redwood trees as the main attraction. The ones listed below are the inland, mountainous areas of Northern California.

    klamath river

    Mendocino National Forest

    Clear Lake, Kelseyville, Ukiah

    north coast CA

    Redwood National Park

    Klamath, Orick

    north coast CA

    Six Rivers National Forests

    north coast CA

    Smith River Recreation Area

    Crescent City, Orleans

    4x4 Camps OHV, 4x4 Routes, Back Roads, California Deserts, California Maps, California Rivers, Campsites, Campspots, Creeks, Mountain Biking, Off Road, Off-Road Trail, OHV Parks & SVRA, Palm Oasis, Slot Canyons, Trailheads, Washes, Wilderness, Wind Caves

    SUV Trail

    Baker Creek
    Baker Creek, Inyo NF

    Since sport utility vehicles were invented for California yuppies, it makes perfect sense that this California market also has the awesome terrain to use these rugged rigs. After the first shopping cart door ding or windshield crack, most folks are open to taking their utilitarian vehicles on dirt roads, but some will only dream about it.

    big bear joshua trees

    Here at Total Escape, we are here to change all that. The fear of outdoors, the unknown, the capability, the driving skill. Your SUV is a good reason to be outdoors in the golden state, at bare minimum. No excuses. Enjoy the California you never knew – and sometimes that means getting off the pavement. Yes, more than 2 miles.

    SUV trail – any path, dirt road or route that can be driven on; high clearance vehicle are often necessary, 4×4 needed on occasion. National Forests, canyons, deserts, mountains, country lane style drives, some classic routes skirt the wilderness boundaries. We have it all for ya here. Rock crawling Rubicon adventures, all the way down to the leisurely ‘Sunday drive’ thru a forest to a meadow for a picnic. 

    Jeep trails, forest roads, graded roads, gravel roads, back roads, dirt roads, 4×4 routes, OHV (off highway vehicle) trails.

    MAPS will get you out there!
    suv road trip
    Dust, dirt, mud, snow. Beyond the county line, way back there, where you can discover ghost towns, old mines in the desert, hot springs, historic lodges, petroglyphs, river gorges, fire lookouts, waterfalls, and so much more.

    Get motivated and travel in your SUV:

    cattle roads

    SUV camping

    sierra roads

    Creeks, Historic Site, October, Picnic Areas, Sightseeing

    Joss House Weaverville

    joss_house_interior

    The Joss House

    Historic Chinese Taoist Temple

    A small but impressive State Historic Park located in downtown Weaverville, a small Northern California town located near the Trinity Alps Wilderness and the Trinity River. State Park

    DSCN8505This darling park is only open Thursday through Sundays (mid day) and tours can be arranged. A one room museum tells the story of the Chinese miners who came to the Trinity River region in search of gold. The neighboring temple is a historic masterpiece and has been preserved for all to enjoy. The wooden building has withstood deep snow falls and logging trucks rumbling by on the highway a block away. Neighboring museums, outdoor displays and lush creek side parks make for ideal picnic spots.

    parks.ca.gov/?page_id=457

    Moon Festival, Weaverville, CA

    Annual “Moon Festival” at this park location in October.

    joss_decore

    Weaverville Joss House.
    Not to be confused w/ the Chinese Josh House in San Francisco.

    Back Roads, Camping, Campspots, Creeks

    Camping Inyo

    Primitive Camping Inyo National Forest – Eastern Sierra Car Camping

    395 Sign

    The mighty US Highway 395 runs from the Mojave Desert north through the eastern side of California, where the state line of Nevada meets. Mount Whitney and the tallest peaks run on the western range @ 14,000’+ the highest in elevation.

    The Inyo Mountain range sits @ 11,000′ to the east side of the Sierra Nevada. Major elevations but little vegetation, when compared to it’s neighboring Sierra range. The Inyos lay in the rain shadow of the taller western mountains – but still get snow. Plenty of primitive SUV camping on the dirt roads throughout this desert area north of Death Valley.

    camp sitesA more forested part of the Inyo National Forest is the Eastern Sierra region. Encompassing Mount Whitney & Mammoth Mountain area, plus the entire Hwy 395 corridor. This side of the Inyo National Forest is quite different that the desert range of Inyo.

    Eastern Sierra back roads lead all over the place & may require 4WD. A high clearance 2WD can still get you to some awesome viewpoints & scenery. No picnic tables or toilets are available out in the boonies, but plenty of seclusion & vast open space wilderness. INYO Forest Service Map is highly advised for this area. There are many dirt roads for dispersed primitive camping w/ no fees. See the Camping Checklist to make sure you’ll have what you need.

    Open (free) Camping along Hwy 395

    Monache Meadows – This high elevation (8000′) south Sierra Meadow is accessible by 4WD truck or SUV. Near Kennedy Meadows CA

    Walker Creek Rd – quick camp in the lowlands; an easy in route camping near oaks & creek. Southside of Olancha CA, look for turn off & follow dirt road up into the tight canyon. No RVs whatsoever.

    Fish Slough Road – open desert camping w/ popular bouldering & rock climbing areas; near Indian Petroglyphs. N of Bishop, CA

    Road# 6S16 – Pine Creek Road – Camp on creek, no facilities. NW of Bishop behind Rovana.

    Lower Rock Creek Road – signed turn off US Hwy 395. Only a couple good camp spots tucked away in the trees. Small creek, very overgrown, traffic noise minimal. Nearby Round Valley @ Sherwin Pass had a big wildfire in wintertime (dry) FEB 2015!

    crowley camps

    Road# 4S02 – Owens Gorge Road – N of Bishop behind Lake Crowley. Free RV camping w/ boulders & pines

    Road# 4S86 – Laurel Lakes Road – Camp in aspens @ small lakes, high elevation; no facilities. SE of Mammoth

    Road# 2S05 – Deadman Creek – Camp in pine forest on creek; no facilities. N of Mammoth

    Road# 2S07 – Owens River Road – Camp in pine forest, near hot springs; no facilities. N of Mammoth

    Parker Lake Road – Camp along aspen creeks or in pine forest, near lakes; no facilities. E of Grant Lake on June Lake Loop (Hwy 158)

    Coyote Flat 4×4 Bishop – just west of Bishop CA is a 4 wheel drive paradise, Coyote Creek – This steep dirt road is quite a climb. A true off-roaders dream of open space, great views, large meadows, & alpine lakes. Great primitive camping along creeks, in pine or aspen forest or near small secluded lakes. Real remote Sierra high country, usually only reached by backpackers, is accessible to those who dare to venture off the beaten path of Highway 395.

    At the golf course keep your eyes peeled — from the highway take Schober Ln. / Underwood Ln. due west through a residential neighborhood to the backside of the town. Find the electrical power station to the left at the base of the hills. Veer onto the slightly paved /dirt road to the right of the station & continue straight up the sandy wash. 4×4 is recommended, since the lowest gears are needed for the careful climb. The road will begin to get steep & gain in elevation fast. The area up here changes with the mileage: passing pinyon pines on cliffs, topping off to high meadows & aspen lined creeks, finally reaching large towering pines & small alpine lakes with snow melt still visible. Basically TREE LINE. This region is most likely open only half the year, due to its high elevation of 8000’+ and winter snow.

  • BISHOP PASS TRAIL MAP
  • INYO Forest Service Map
  • PALISADES TRAIL MAP
  • WHITNEY MAPS

    • Campgrounds, Creeks

    Small Campgrounds on Creek

    Road 10S69

    California Small Campgrounds on Creeks

    campground region town
    Beaver Creek Klamath NF Happy Camp
    Grider Creek Klamath NF Happy Camp
    Trout Creek Shasta NF McCloud, CA
    Bear Creek Mendocino Ukiah, CA
    Mokelumne Eldorado NF Jackson, CA
    Dark Canyon SanBerdu Idyllwild
    Grays Meadow Inyo NF Independence
    Limekiln SP Los Padres NF Big Sur, CA
    Patrick Creek 6 Rivers NF Crescent City
    Rock Creek Sierra NF Bass Lake
    McGee Creek Inyo NF Tom’s Place
    Camp Wishon Sequoia NF Springville

    Creekside Camping in California

    HIdden Falls
    creekside cabins

    Wanna do day-trips to this kinda place, fishing or sightseeing, but sleep indoors? Then check out lodging in these fine California river towns.

    Campgrounds, Campsites, Creeks, Mountain Biking

    Cold Creek Campground

    Cold Creek Camp

    Truckee Campgrounds, Tahoe NF

    Cold Creek Campground: N of Truckee, CA

    DSCN0046

    A small developed campground along forested Highway 89, with raging creek, fishing spots, and hiking trails and mountain biking trails nearby. Paved, level camp sites, small RVs okay w/ access to the numerous Sierra Nevada destinations with several lakes and reservoirs nearby.

    This is a popular overnight stop “in route” for many campers and bikers traveling further on to the Northern Sierra Nevada mountains. You can exit off Interstate 80 @ Truckee, and be at this camp in minutes. Car camp, tent camping, a few spaces for small motorhomes. Plenty hiking and mountain biking trails.

    Cold Creek Campground, California

    on the Cold Stream;
    Campground open May-October
    (depending on snow)

    High Sierra / Tahoe Truckee Camping

    13 camp sites on Cold Stream @ 5800′ elevation; vault toilets, river and piped water, bear boxes; first come, first served camping

    Max Camper Length: 22′

    Rangers Office: 530-265-4531

    The highway traffic noise makes this place a ‘short and sweet’ one nighter top pick, great for those camping in route to another destination. Another developed camp is on the opposite side of the highway, less than a mile north called Cottonwood Campground.

    Free Camping nearby.
    If you are seeking primitive camping near this area, start with Little Truckee Summit at the lakes turn off road on SR 89 – about 2 miles south of the Cold Creek Campground.

    Tahioe USDA MapTake Tahoe Forest Road #5, a major paved road, approximately 12 miles back to the big meadows. Look for the unsigned dirt roads on left side of road nearing Webber Lake. The largest lake in the region, Independence Lake, is a paved side route off to the south. Further back on Road #5 the pavement ends at Jackson Meadows Reservoir. Very rough rocky road out to Bowman Lake w/ several developed campgrounds in the vicinity.

     

    Tahoe trailheads lead out to –
    alpine fishing lakes
    mountain peaks
    Treasure Mountain 7085′
    Tahoe National Forest 
    OHV Area @ Prosser Reservoir

    NEARBY TOWNS:

    ROAD CONDITIONS:

    Tahoe and Truckee are known for their brutal winters and deep snows pack. Call CalTrans ahead of your departure if you are even slightly expecting any kind of precipitation. Truckee – winter road conditions

     


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    Back Roads, Backpacking, California Maps, Campgrounds, Creeks, Equestrian, Fishing, Hiking, Historic Site, Indian Site, Native American, Trailheads, Wilderness

    Ishi Wilderness

    Bridge and Chute from top of Black Rock

    NorCal Ishi Wilderness

    41,840 acres
    20 miles N of Chico, CA
    Lassen National Forest

    • Barkley Mountain (elev. 4488′)
    • Black Rock Campground
    • Deer Creek
    • Flat Iron Mountain (elev. 4400′)
    • Iron Mountain (elev. 3274′)
    • Indian Ridge Campground
    • Mill Creek
    • Peligreen Place
    • Pine Creek
    • Pinnacle Peak (elev. 3293′)
    • South Antelope Campground
    • Twentymile Hollow

    Up in the mountains behind Chico sits a rugged landscape of deep canyons lined with bizarre rock formations and roaring mountain creeks. Wilderness encompasses lower elevations – ranging from 1500′ – 3500′  – making this outdoor destination a winter haven, when the rest of the backcountry is covered in several feet of snow. One of the most historic wilderness areas in the state, as the aboriginal existence of the Native Americans came to an end in this area.

    COHASSET ROAD climbs up the volcanic fin of Cohasset Ridge into the pine forests high above the valley floor. The paved road becomes dirt and the road name changes to Ponderosa Way (Lassen Road# 28N29). The Ishi Wilderness can also be accessed from the north side via Highway 32, near the Tehama State Game Refuge.


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    • backpacking trails
    • hiking trails
    • fishing creeks
    • horseback trails
    • wildlife viewing

     

    Ishi Wilderness mapIshi Wilderness Map

    Ishi Wilderness


    California Rivers, Fishing, Gardens, Hiking, Hot Springs, Indian Site, Mountain Biking, Primitive Hot Springs, Trailheads, Wildflowers

    Kern River Hot Springs

    Kern Hot Springs

    Kern River Hot Tub

    From Lake Isabella down to Bako, along Hwy 178, numerous natural hot springs can be found in this lower Kern river canyon. Old Kern Canyon Road has plenty of primitive spots to camp along the road, way above the Kern River. This Southern Sierra Nevada scenic route, a 20 mi winding narrow paved road, is the old highway that leads up to Bodfish CA.

    At least a dozen dispersed camp sites can be found along the Old Kern Cyn Rd, some spots with views over canyon, some hidden & shady, many spots are level & large – suitable for RVs. No facilities, no fees, just a flat, dispersed site. Campfire permits are required for fires outside of developed Campgrounds & fire restrictions are often high, so no fires are allowed much of the year. Most of the gates on the Lower Kern are now locked & only accessible by Forest Service personnel, ranchers or local rafting companies with permits.

    2 developed Lower Kern Campgrounds are located on the Old Kern Canyon Road, which parallels the 4 lane portion of the highway: Hobo Campground & Sandy Flat Campgrounds, if you really need a picnic table & bathroom. You can reserve camps by clicking the links.

    Miracle Hot Springs – next to Hobo Campground. This hot tub park is closed for good. A few portable bathrooms, picnic tables & trash bins, the hiking trails clear; 2 shallow pools partially filled. Maybe enough room to soak your butt, but not fully submerse yourself. Someone really needs to renovate this place! Update 2012 – the signs for Miracle are now completely gone.

    Remington Hot Springs

    This one is by far the most popular now that Miracle is gone. The hike-in only access doesn’t deter people much and many choose to set camp overnight close by. The local authorities are always making the rounds to double check on the area – which is good for security and bad for the 2 AM party animals.

    Kern recreation

    Democrat Hot Springs

    private resort now open? Heck, I dunno. (2017, democrathotsprings.com is down. They might be trying to promote a River Festival held in May.)

    The hotel and cottages were constructed to accommodate guests that came in stage coaches to dine and relax during the early 1900’s. Five springs on the property flow at 115 degrees into large soaking tubs and a swimming pool. Closed to the public for more than thirty years, the resort is once again ready to be brought to life for groups and private events only.

    Kern recreation

    The hot springs listed below are Private Property, so don’t get caught – and don’t get shot:

    Delonegha Hot Springs

    Concrete tubs were built by homesteaders, later a hotel and boarding house were constructed. Stage coaches from the San Joaquin Valley took 2 days to get visitors to this area. The hotel closed in 1912, when more accessible areas of Democrat and Hobo were built. Remaining cement tubs run along a rock peninsula overlooking the Kern River; water temperatures average 112 degrees. This private property is fenced.

    Scovern Hot Springs

    Also known as the Hot Springs House. 1902 mud baths were being offered and the wooden tubs were replaced by galvanized tubs. A swimming pool and bath houses were added when the Scoverns bought the property in 1929. Bath house burned to the ground in 1971 and only a vacant lot remains. Steam can still be seen in the fields across from the springs, where water runs at 140 gallons a minute @ 115 degrees.


    NEARBY TOWNS –

    ALTA SIERRA CA

    KERNVILLE CA

    LAKE ISABELLA CA

    WOFFORD HEIGHTS CA

    MAP OF THE KERN RIVER –

    Sequoia National Forest Map

    Kern Hot Springs

    4x4 Camps OHV, 4x4 Routes, Back Roads, Backpacking, California Rivers, Equestrian, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Off Road, Off-Road Trail, Trailheads, Wilderness, Wildflowers

    Garcia Wilderness

    Garcia Wilderness, Los Padres NF

    14,100 acres
    Garcia Peak – 3146′ elevation
    Los Padres National Forest
    Huasna River
    Pozo Creek

    himtncampgroundcampgrounds nearby –

    American Canyon Campground
    Hi Mountain Campground
    La Panza Campground
    Lake Lopez Campground
    Navajo Campground

    trailheads for Garcia Wilderness

    • Hi Mtn
    • Santa Lucia
    • Garcia OHV

    POZO ROAD is also known as

    • Pozo La Panza Rd
    • Hi Mountain Rd
    • Pozo Arroyo Grande Rd

    San Luis Obispo’s Los Padres Pozo Rd is a 4×4 route that accesses the Garcia Wilderness; the dirt route connects Lake Lopez to Pozo Saloon, out near Santa Margarita. Los Padres National Forest 

    Located inland from the Pismo Coast in south San Luis Obispo county.
    Garcia Peak OHV Route, off Pozo Road behind Lake Lopez, Arroyo Grande, CA

    • backpackingLupine on Pozo Rd
    • camping
    • hiking
    • mountain biking
    • off roading
    • waterfalls
    • wildflowers

    Steep lush coastal mountains, rugged, remote landscapes close to Central Coast San Luis Obispo.

    Garcia Ridge Road #30S18

    Garcia Ridge Trail #15E11

    Hi Mountain Road #30S11

     

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    also nearby – Machesna Mountains Wilderness and Santa Lucia Wilderness

    California Rivers, Campgrounds

    Douglas City Campground

    Trinity River Campground

    Douglas Steiner Flat Camping

    douglasbeach

    Northern California river camping. Douglas City is hardly even a town much less a city. A post office and a general store is the majority of what makes up this riverfront locale.

    Tucked away on the scenic Trinity River, this small campground is perfect for those wanting to explore the Trinity River, Trinity Lake or the Trinity Alps region. Region is well known for fishing, hiking, kayaking and rafting. A small beach allows for river access. Group picnic area, picnic tables, telephone, beach, paved loop road are just a few amenities.

    From Douglas City, drive half mile west on Hwy 299 to Steiner Flat Road. Follow signs to the developed camp. Numerous dirt roads lead to river edge, so there are primitive camping options available along Steiner Flat Road for those seeking free overnight stays.

    • Elevation: 1,500′
    • Number of Sites: 20
    • Camping Reservations: No
    • Sites Available: First come, First serve
    • Vehicle Accessibility: Vehicle limit 28 ft. max.
    • Length of Stay: 14 Days
    • Water: Piped; river nearby
    • Toilet: Flush & Vault
    • Season: Closed for winter, Nov-April
    • Fee: Yes
    • Operated By: Bureau of Land Management
    • Closest Town: Douglas City, CA

    BLM Redding Ranger Station
    530-224-2100

    dscn0001
    nearby destinations –
    Chanchelulla Wilderness
    Chappie Shasta OHV Area
    Douglas City, CA
    Lewiston Lake
    Shasta Trinity National Forest
    Trinity Alps Wilderness
    Trinity Lake
    Weaverville, CA
    Whiskeytown Lake NRA

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    dscn0003

    Backpacking, California Maps, California Rivers, Fishing, Hiking, Trailheads, Wilderness

    Mokelumne Wilderness

    Central Sierra Nevada Mountains, California

    Mokelumne Wilderness Area

    topo mapsMokelumne Map

    Mokelumne (pronounced moo-ka-la-mi)
    Backpacking, Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking Mokelumne River / Mokelumne Fishing / Mokelumne Trail / Mokelumne Wilderness Topographic Map

    Vast alpine ranges located in the middle of the Sierra Nevada, between Highway 88 (Carson Pass) & Highway 4 (Ebbetts Pass). The Mokelumne Wilderness is a 105,165-acre federally designated wilderness area located 70 miles east of Sacramento, California. It is within the boundaries of three national forests: Stanislaus, Eldorado and Toiyabe. First protected under the Wilderness Act of 1964, the Mokelumne’s borders were expanded under the California Wilderness Act of 1984 with the addition of 55,000 acres. The wilderness takes its name from the Mokelumne River, which was named after a Mi-wok Indian village located on the riverbank in California’s Central Valley.

    The wilderness encompasses an area of the Sierra Nevada mountain range between Ebbetts Pass to Carson Pass. There are two sections separated by the Blue Lakes Road and an Off-Road Vehicle corridor. Elevations range from 4,000′ to 10,381′. The highest point is Round Top 10,364′, a remnant volcano from which the wilderness area’s volcanic soils are derived from and is located on the east side of the Sierra crest.

    recreation –

    • backpacking
    • camping
    • creeks
    • fishing
    • hiking
    • ice climbing
    • kayaking
    • lakes
    • mountaineering
    • rivers
    • wildflowers

    surrounding forest lands –

    National Forest & Wilderness Permits –

    USDA Stanislaus
    Lake Tahoe Basin Management

    More Mokelumne Wilderness Info & Links –

    sierrawild.gov/wilderness/mokelumne
    summitpost.org/mokelumne-wilderness
    Mokelumne Wiki
    Mokelumne River

    Sunset at Mosquito Lakes

    Backpacking, California Rivers, Campgrounds, Equestrian, Fishing, Groves, Hiking, Trailheads, Wilderness

    Atwell Mill Campground

    Atwell Mill Campground
    Mineral King Camping, Sequoia National Park

    Atwell Mill is near the East Fork of the Kaweah River, situated in an old logged sequoia grove with the southern Sequoia National Parks impressive Mineral King Canyon. Located 19 mi from Highway 198 near Three Rivers, CA. About 1 mi West of Silver City and 6 miles before the end of road at Mineral King.

    mill_i
    Meadows with pines at this campground

    • Elevation: 6,650′
    • Number of Sites: 21
    • Camping Reservations: No
    • Sites Available: First come, First serve
    • Vehicle Accessibility: No RVs; tents only
    • Length of Stay: 14 Days
    • Toilet: Pit
    • Water: Piped
    • Season: Closed in Winter Snow
    • Fee: Yes

    site4

    Bear Box in Mineral King Campground
    Bear Box in Mineral King Campground

    Bear lockers for food storage are required in this region. Nice shady camp spots spaced out well at this small developed campground. Hikers parking lot is located at one end of the campground. Big bonus for hiking trails nearby.

    FOOTBRIDGE HIKE: Great half day hike down to the Kaweah River. Small wooden bridge down at the river crossing and numerous trails lead off into plenty backpacking destinations around Mineral King.


    View Larger Map

    California Rivers, Events, May, Wildflowers

    Memorial Day California

    Memorial Day Trips


    Late May is a fine time to be in California. Spring is warming up, rains are fading and school is finally out. This 3 day holiday weekend known as Memorial Day weekend, unofficially kicks off the start to the summer season and launches us into warmer weather. Most folks wanna be outside and having fun on their days off. BBQs, family picnics and street fair traditions are quite common. The Sierra snows are melting fast, rivers are raging, wildflowers blooming and all the lakes are full. The coastal areas may have some clouds and fog as the June Gloom announces its presence.

    Memorial Day Weekend

    Camping in California is one of the most popular things to do over the busy holiday weekend, making any well-known outdoor destination congested and unpleasant. Campgrounds are usually full up and reservations are required. The first come, first serve camp spots are best secured on the Thursday night, before the weekend.

    You should try to have a secondary Plan B ready, if your favorite campsite (A) is already taken. Free camp fire permits and primitive camping can often mean more responsibility, but the rewards of peace and tranquility as neighbors are well worth it. Drive a bit further down the road for more secluded spots. This year, a 4×4 might be recommended on snowy dirt back roads in the backcountry. A good snow pack in the High Country means that all rivers, creeks and lakes are maxed out. Use extreme caution around all waterways, wear life vests and make your weekend a pleasant and safe one.

    RIVER CAMPING
    LAKE CAMPING
    GOLD COUNTRY
    SEQUOIA CAMPING
    CA BACK ROADS
    CREEKSIDE CAMPS

    Memorial Day California

    day trips for the weekend

    Stanislaus River