Tag Archives: topo

4x4 Camps OHV, 4x4 Routes, California Deserts, California Rivers, Campgrounds, Camping, Campsites, Campspots, Fishing, Hiking, Lakes & Reservoirs, Marinas, Mines, Off Road, Off-Road Trail, Picnic Areas, RV Parks, Trailheads, Viewpoints, Washes, Wilderness

Lake Mohave

viewpoint mohave

Lake Mohave NRA

Lake Mohave National Recreation Area

Mojave Reservoir @ Colorado River: AZ / NV / CA
@ the V, bottom of Nevada state = Arizona – Nevada – California, all merge together

National Park Service

The Colorado River travels through the southwest desert, splitting the Grand Canyon and further south, separating California from Arizona at the southern tip of Nevada. Agriculture lines the big river down to Baja, Sea of Cortez, Mexico.

Up near Las Vegas and down to Searchlight, NV

Above Hoover Dam is Lake Mead, sediment from Utah National Parks. Red dirt and silt shorelines. South of Hoover dam is a super deep rock gorge w/ hike-in hot springs. Beyond that, this beauty called Lake Mohave – with the super clear water, secluded coves and abundant fishing. fish

Lake Mohave: elevation 647′

Desert peaks in this region are around 2000-3000′ elevation. Mohave Lake is actually a wide section of the Colorado River, spanning the region from massive Black Canyon south to busy Laughlin w/ river casinos. This lake is long and skinny in spots with lots of shoreline cliffs, canyons and coves. Minimal vegetation, so please bring your own firewood and don’t chop down the few trees trying to survive. Summer temps exceed 100 degrees, so plan your visit for the winter time.

boatrampLake Mohave Ranger Stations
Cottonwood Cove
Katherine Landing

boating, camping, fishing, hiking, hot springs, kayaking, off-road, picnics, viewpoints

camping areas below listed from north to south

Willow Beach RV Park & Campground
Arizona side, off Hwy 93
928-767-4747

car camp mohave

El DORADO CANYON

El Dorado Canyon Road, main paved route can be accessed near California’s state border. North of Searchlight, Nevada – off main highway 95, on side route 165 to Nelson, NV

Secluded dirt roads up and down canyons near El Dorado Canyon Rd. Minimal vegetation, maximum open scenery and dark skies. Kayak rentals @ El Dorado Canyon.

desert badlands erosion

deep washes
Ireteba Peaks Wilderness

4×4 camping routes: 15 day camping limit

Find your own route with many to choose from, drive the soft sandy washes (with a few boulders to dodge) and camp for free, right at the waters edge. Adventurers: Only for the self-contained campers. Some routes marked 4WD only, so pay attention to signs. AWD (all wheel drive) vehicles should fare well on the sandy roads; but standard passenger cars and vans will need to keep their speed up in the soft sand areas.

No garbage collection. Pack it in, pack it out.
No facilities, no fees. No buildings. No campfire rings, no picnic tables, very few vault toilets. Bring your shovel!

Driving off the roads is strictly prohibited. Primitive camp sites can be found both at numerous coves and also inland inside the canyons. The ridges get windy in the deserts, but are favorable for night sky views and self contained camper vans.

Always know the weather forecast, cuz flash floods are possible and these dirt roads will be impassible during big rain. This is the main drainage to the big river!

Dogs Allowed

DRIVING TIPS

Most desert washes here are signed routes 4×4, but mini vans, AWD sport-wagons, trucks, SUVs, small RVs can all be found camping near Lake Mohave. That is – if you know how to ‘drive off road’, which is not fast, but not too slow either.

Avoid getting stuck in the deep sand: keep speed up, do not turn sharply and do not brake hard. Carry tow strap in case you need an emergency pull. Be nice to strangers and you may find help.

Campfires are allowed, but you need to bring firewood. Dogs are allowed. Party animals tend to trash these desert coves, so be warned that there is a fair amount of litter. Bring a black trash bag and take some out! This trash problem could get the area closed off to vehicles so keep that in mind.

The canyons here have giant power lines that cross @ Aztec Wash; they can easily be avoided.

montana wash

primitive camping 4x4 camping boat camping

4×4 recommended @ MOHAVE:

Eagle Wash Road #46 – popular spot
Montana Wash #45 – camping ok
Placer Wash #47 – no camping

The rangers don’t wanna be pulling your ass out of the sand, which is why they post the 4×4 signs. Don’t expect to find help without walking a few miles first, or waiting several hours.

 

desert wilderness

Several wilderness areas are located along the west side of this lake & river. Often dirt roads will parallel a portion of the wilderness boundary, providing excellent access to secluded coves and beaches. Emergency CALL boxes are placed in remote parts of these shores.

  • Ireteba Peaks Wilderness (northwest, next to El Dorado Canyon)
  • Nellis Wash Wilderness (western side)
  • Spirit Mountain Wilderness (southwest)
  • Bridge Canyon Wilderness (southwest, near Laughlin)

mohave2011

RV camp campground marina

COTTONWOOD COVE
developed campground, boat launch, marina, lodging, hiking, picnic areas

Cottonwood Cove Resort
near Searchlight, NV
702-297-1464

primitive camping boat camping RV camp campground marina

LAUGHLIN, NV
Nevada, California and Arizona states join down in this part of the world. Katherine Landing, full service marina, slip rentals, lodging, city services and casinos.

Lake Mohave Resort
928-754-3245

katherine landing camping
Katherine Landing offers back roads camping, via rough dirt roads.
Laughlin Marina
Laughlin Marina @ Katherine

Lake Mohave NRA
NPS Headquartersnevada_atlas
601 Nevada Way
Boulder City, NV 89005
Visitor Center open daily
702-293-8990

maps of the region:

covecamps

Mojave Desert – This river-created lake is located on the Colorado River, in between Las Vegas, Nevada and Needles, California. The river water here is crystal clear, very swimmable and the fishing is decent.  No paved boat rampsclearest water

nearby towns: (with elevation)

Avi Casino
Bullhead City, AZ (540′)
Laughlin, NV (535′)
Kingman, AZ (3340′)
Needles, CA
Nelson, NV (2954′)
Nipton, CA (3042′)
Oatman, AZ
Searchlight, NV (3470′)


Back Roads, California Maps, Off Road, Trailheads

Dirt Roads Map

California back roads are plentiful, beautiful and exquisitely wonderful – if you know where to look.

Off Road typically means “off the pavement”

graded dirt road

PLUMAS_i

While many argue the phrase “off-road” means only hard core 4×4 routes, rock crawling or rally racing, here at Total Escape, any road that is not paved is a dirt road and “off road” to us, and always well worth exploring. Graded dirt roads, gravel roads, access roads, washboard routes, forest roads, fire roads, secondary roads, desert washes, one laners, single tracks, OHV trails – can all be dirt roads.

Whether or not your vehicle can handle them is your decision, but believe me, you do NOT need a modified Jeep to start your adventuring. Most dirt roads can easily be accessed with a normal passenger car – if you pay close attention to terrain, deep mud ruts and the rocks in the road.

stuck

Vehicle clearance is usually the first thing that will have you hesitating. If you own a truck or SUV – this is enough to be considered a “high clearance vehicle” and good to go on 90% of dirt roads in Cali. Many dirt roads will become 4×4 required or recommended when mud or snow are present, and no signs to warn you, so always check the weather forecast in advance. And most importantly, BRING A REAL MAP.

Paper Maps vs. Online Maps

Driving on Interstates and state highways is one thing, exploring and discovering new routes and real sightseeing is another animal all together. Go prepared to be delayed: to stop and sit, to listen to the wind, to picnic outside, to watch the weather change, photograph the clouds forming above your head, enjoy the process. Remember the journey: Half the fun is getting there!

ELDORADO_iIf you’ve ever tried to travel across the state with a GoogleMap, YahooMap or MapQuest one page printout, you will soon realize the limitations. Stuck in a small town called Julian, at night, on Christmas Eve, arguing with your partner, trying to find your way over to Interstate 10. Not a good plan! A statewide atlas will save you from many unexpected route changes, as well as prove to be an invaluable tool while traveling. Free as a bird, ready to explore the open road and well prepared is the key to less stress in route.

Exploring California

Know your vehicle limitations, and if in doubt, pull over, get out and look. Examine the ruts, the mud depth, the height of the rocks. Sometimes a good camp site is dependent on how far up that dirt road you can drive. RV campers like to stick to the wider, graded dirt roads and plenty can be found on typical topo maps. Tom Harrison, National Geographic & National Forest maps all have dirt roads as well as trails, trailheads, campgrounds listed.

Nearly every map sold on Total Escape has dirt roads noted:

  • US National Forest Maps have all the main routes, the dirt roads and some main hiking trails. Trailheads, ranger stations and campgrounds are well marked.
  • CA Wilderness Map collection have the topographical features you will need to hike the region, peaks, streams, and all dirt roads leading up to the trail heads. Nearby campgrounds will be shown. Equestrian (horse back riding) is okay, but no mountain biking is allowed inside these Wilderness Areas.
  • OHV Routes & Maps will display the “off highway vehicle” routes, which include single tracks for dirt bikes/motorcycles, wider routes for quads and all roads rated for 4×4 only use. Several selected maps will also show hiking biking and equestrian routes.
  • Recreation Maps can feature various types of activities all on one map, from off-roading to snowmobiling, river rafting to waterfalls. These maps cover a smaller area or popular region to enjoy.

dirtroad primtive

dirt roads lead to:

canyons
caves
creeks
dirt bike trails
fire lookouts
fishing holes
forests
groves
hiking trails
horseback trails
hot springs
meadows
mountain biking trails
mountain peaks
off-road trails
petroglyphs
picnic sites
ranches
rafting spots
rivers
scenic viewpoints
secluded campsites
small campgrounds
swimming holes
trailheads
waterfalls
wildflowers

log cabin mine road

‘FROADERS: see also –

California Off Road Areas

California 4×4 Trails

California Off Road Maps

Off-Road Maps PDF

Backpacking, California Waterfalls, Campgrounds, Creeks, Equestrian, Fishing, Hiking, Trailheads

Horse Meadow Campground

Kern Meadows Camping

Horse Meadow Campground

Salmon Creek, Kern Plateau –
Sequoia National Forest

horse camping National Forest Camps Mountain Biking Kern Hikes fish Trailer access camping
Looking to stay away from the masses camping at the Kern River?

Horse Meadow Campground can be found on the east side of the Kern River, up on the Kern Plateau. Up the infamous, steep and rugged Shermans Pass Road. How exciting!

Steep Grades

Climb the hill slowly and cautiously, no guardrails. Up the grade, Shermans eastbound – out of the dryness of the Kern canyon. Find Cherry Hill Road, that is also the Big Meadow turn off: Forest Road# 22S12, a long, narrow dirt road leads from paved Shermans Pass Road, 10 miles out to this ideal campground. Far enough off the main road, so you won’t see much of a crowd out here.

22s05 sherman pass

Hunters, horse campers and hikers really like this spot. Mountain bikers are known to frequent the region as well. Forest, meadows, trails, creeks, nature, all around. Dome Land Wilderness is close by; Waterfalls hikes, swimming holes, viewpoints. Fishing, hunting, horseback trails. Dirt roads and single track trails all over – all within the vicinity of Big Meadow.

Kern Meadows Camping

From the main Rd #22S12, the camp access road #23S08 will lead out to the NFS Campground – HORSE MEADOW. Located at higher elevation forests – 3000′ feet higher than the Kern River!

Nice forested, high country camp spots in a developed campground. The long, access road is worth it for all the scenery and seclusion. Vault toilets, piped water, maybe a small fee. Open summer into autumn, closes for winter months.

Horse Meadow Campground

• Elevation: 7600′
• Number of Sites: 41
• Vehicle Access: RV 23′ max
• Campsites Reservation: No
• Camp Fee: Yes
• Length of Stay: 14 Days
• Season: June – November
• Trailheads: Salmon Creek

33e36trailhead
Developed Campground @ Salmon Creek Trail #33E36. Hiking trailheads lead off to various destinations like, Salmon Creek Falls, Big Meadow, Cannel Meadows and Dome Lands.

Sequoia Kern Map

Sunny Campsite

SUMMERTIME: If you are coming in from Kennedy Meadows on the EAST (or the Mojave desert US 395) – first verify that the Sherman Pass is OPEN for through traffic. Ask road conditions with local rangers ahead of time. ANY amount of snow will close this whole paved route for the winter season, up until June sometimes.

Over 30 miles (one way) to the nearest general store for supplies. Pack ‘block ice’ in the cooler, instead of cubes.

nearby towns:
Fairview
Kennedy Meadows
Kernville
Lake Isabella
Mojave

Big Meadow is closeby. Check it out!

Big Meadow Kern

4x4 Camps OHV, 4x4 Routes, Back Roads, California Motorcycle, Off-Road Trail, OHV Parks & SVRA

Sequoia National Forest OHV

Off-Roading Sequoia

Sequoia OHV Trails & Off-Road Areas

Rincon Camp
Rincon Camp & Rincon Trail @ Sherman’s Pass turnoff

Sequoia National Forest covers a large portion of the Southern Sierra, surrounding the Kern River canyon. This trail list is NOT for off-roading in the Sequoia groves!

The regions here are further south, below the Western Divide & Trail of 100 Giants.

If you are looking for more than a leisurely Sunday drive or a self guided back road tour, listed below are areas to “tear it up” on dirt w/ your motor bikes, machines & off road toys. Camping is common in certain spots.

CAMPS: Please be respectful of other campers and hikers; do not ride circles around camp sites, stir up dust or rev up engines at night. Choose a camp away from main roadways and access trails for a more enjoyable experience. Equestrian campers often use these same areas for meadow camping and horseback riding. A campfire permit is required.

sequoia OHV routes

ATV offroad trails, OHV routes & 4×4 Jeep Roads

Mojave OHV Sequoia 4x4

DIRT ROADS in KERN CYN & SEQUOIA

Just looking for some dirt roads to explore – at a more leisurely pace?
Check out DanaMite’s Sequoia Back Roads list, where you can find awesome unpaved roads throughout the Sequoia Forest & Kern Canyon region. Some of these secluded routes lead to great primitive camping sites, waterfalls, fishing holes, or amazing view points, but are not necessarily popular ATV routes.

DSCN0049

DSCN0061

4x4 Routes, Backpacking, Equestrian, Hiking, Lakes & Reservoirs, Off-Road Trail, Rock Climbing, Trailheads, Wilderness

Maxson Trailhead

If you are a backpacker wanting to easily access the John Muir Wilderness, the paved parking area of Maxson is the trail head for you. The Courtright Reservoir is located at over 8000′ elevation, w/ granite domes & alpine scenery all around. This place is way back behind Dinkey Creek, past the McKinley Sequoia Grove inside a deep granite gorge. The Sierra National Forest is the region, which is south of Yosemite National Park. The paved route is a long one from Shaver Lake, via Dinkey Creek Road, but the rewards are great. An all day adventure and a side trip not to be rushed.

Warning: You could spend a whole day just driving & sightseeing in this area! Meadows, wildflowers, dirt roads, trails, Big Creek, McKinley Grove of Sequoias, Wishon Reservoir, the list goes on. All the way out to the Wilderness boundary, Courtright Lake is not a quick or easy drive.

The hikers trailhead is located at the end of Courtright Rd. Cross over the big dam to the right & drive approx one mile; look for signs on the right side of the road. There are minimal areas to set camp at this granite , windswept face. Good luck getting a tent stake in the ground. Rock rules here. There are a few developed Campgrounds on the opposite side of the lake which may be a better choice for car camping. This Maxson parking lot is primarily for backpackers.john muir maps

nearby locales –

maps of this Sierra region –


View Larger Map

Dusy Ershim 4×4 route start right here too – on the opposite side of the road. It’s second only to the Rubicon Trail, as far as High Sierra rocks & terrain.

Rock Climbers also love this spot for the granite domes & walls. Hiking all the way around this lake is a full day trip, with lunch and sightseeing stops. A pleasure not to be rushed.

dusy ershim

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 –


View Larger Map

Hiking

Hiking Sequoia National Forest

Kern River Trails & Kernville Hiking

Sequoia National Forest Trails

Hiking Trails
Hundreds of trails meandering throughout this forest. Granite domes to huge Sequoia trees. Most secluded areas are found in the Eastern Section in the Dome Land Wilderness.

Dome Land Wilderness

Golden Trout Wilderness

South Sierra Wilderness

Sequoia Hiking Maps, Wilderness Maps, OHV Maps

Sequoia National Forest Hiking

lower kern river
the lush Lower Kern River on a misty Spring day

Upper Kern Hiking

Lower Kern River Hikes

Sequoia National Forest & the Lower Sierra Nevada Mountains extend from the Tehachapi ranges to the Kings River Canyon; from the Great Central Valley to the Mojave desert.

Sequoia National Forest MAP

Dome Land Wilderness MAP

Golden Trout Wilderness MAPS

Kern River Valley communities include:

Sequoia Mountain communities include:

Lower Kern Camp

Campgrounds, Campsites

California Campground Maps

California topo mapsWhen you go camping, you wanna explore the area. That’s why you are camping there, right? Hiking & biking trails, equestrian trails, off road routes, river, streams, waterfalls & the closest trail heads. If you prefer primitive camping, outside of developed campgrounds without all the amenities, topographic maps of the back roads give you a perfect overview on where to begin your search. The ultimate creek side camp spot awaits.

The California maps we carry have developed Campgrounds featured for that region. These camps could be managed by any government agency, BLM, NPS, NFS, SP or perhaps a private campground. Below is a list of gorgeous regions that have excellent Campgrounds:

CA National Forest Maps

grover hot springs

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

California Maps

USGS California Maps

USGS topographical maps

USGA topo maps California

The United States Geological Survey team has been working hard since 1897 to research and create the maps you might need to enjoy the great outdoors. Government produced maps include – USDA, NFS, USGS

California Mountains Maps
Topo Maps CA
River Maps California

California National Forest maps, Wilderness maps, Topographical

The USGS is an agency of the United States government. The scientists study the landscape of the United States, its natural resources, and the natural hazards that threaten it. The organization has four major science disciplines, concerning biology, geography, geology, and hydrology.

Dome Lands Wilderness
Dome Lands Wilderness

Interesting California map links –
Recent Earthquakes
USGS.gov
Science In Your Backyard: California
UCSB Topographic Maps of California
Broer Map Library – California

Sequoia Map, #1 seller on Total Escape
Sequoia Map, #1 seller on Total Escape
Backpacking, Hiking, Trailheads, Wilderness

Silver Peak Wilderness

Hiking the Southern Big Sur Coastline

faded public lands
Sun-bleached, wooden Los Padres sign – near Salmon Creek trailhead.

Silver Peak Wilderness, Big Sur Coast

Central California Coast

31,555 acres

8 miles South of Gorda, CA
along Pacific Coast Hwy 1
near Big Sur, CA
Los Padres National ForestBig Sur Wilderness Map

Backpacking and hiking trails on the Pacific Coast, steep terrain next to ocean. Coastal redwood canyons, oaks hills, great views. The neighboring Ventana Wilderness is located just north of Silver Peak hiking trails.

Southern Redwood Botanical Area

Silver Peak –3,590′ elevation
Alder Peak –3,744′

trailheads

  • Salmon Creek Trail #5E09
  • Hwy 1 @ connection Trail #5E10
  • Alder Creek Trail #5E09

mm

mile markers along Pacific Coast Highway 1
 (Monterey County)

  • Cruickshank Trailhead – 6.5 mm
  • Soda Springs Trailhead – 3.8 mm
  • Buckeye Trailhead – 2.4 mm
  • Salmon Creek Trailhead – 2.2 mm

developed campgrounds nearby –

nearby towns –

Ocean View Hikes Big Sur


View Larger Map

Oak Foothills

Back Roads, California Deserts, Washes

Old Kane Spring Road

Kane Spring California

Quartz Wash Anza

Old Kane Spring Road parallels California SR Highway 78 a few miles from Ocotillo Wells, in east Anza Borrego Desert. A graded dirt road that can often gets sandy and you might need to keep you speed up certain soft spots. A few dead end canyons lead southward; hidden camp sites can be found out this way if you have the time to look. Harper Canyon, perhaps. See below for more on camp sites.

San Diego Desert Map

Anza Borrego Desert State Park Map

San Diego Backcountry Map

Spring Wildflowers can be quite spectacular out along this desert trail. Towering red-tipped ocotillo in some canyons serve as great backdrops to a perfect picnic lunch.

Ocotillo California

The Kane dirt route peels off the highway about a mile east of an area known as The Narrows. Marked on the highway as a small hiking trail, the highway curves at a narrow section of the canyon, as San Felipe Creek wash carves its way through the harsh landscape.

primitive campThe best primitive camping in this area is actually west of The Narrows. You might need a high clearance vehicle to reach some spots and a good map with the creek/wash names. Make sure to look for these – Free Camping

  • Nolina Wash
  • Pinyon Wash
  • Quartz Vein Wash

pinyonoco vcampoutpinyonwsh

On the opposite the highway is Ocotillo Wells SVRA, where off road enthusiasts can get their kicks. Wind caves can be found in Butte Canyon, where the 4×4 trails abound. Kane Springs intersects Split Mountain Road. The Elephant Trees, Split Mountain and more wind caves are south of the railroad tracks.

Anza Borrego Desert Map


View Larger Map

Camping

Where to Camp

Where to set Camp in California?
Camping Spots
Small campgrounds have fewer facilities than the larger developed campgrounds, but less sites means more nature and less people. Roughing it on the back roads with dispersed camping is by far the best experience for seclusion and privacy

real peace and quiet.

Primitive, free camping requires more thought and planning than just pitching a tent in a flat spot at a developed campground.

First off, you will need a decent topo map to find the dirt back roads, the trailheads and the creeks with the best camp sites; a dependable and capable rig to get you out there, plus your camping gear.

Campfire permits are usually required for camp stoves, BBQs and any open fires. (bucket & shovel needed).

And most importantly, since California is known for its super dry climate and seasonal wildfires, make sure to check with local rangers to find out about any current campfire restrictions.

Streamside Camping
some tips for a good camping experience – without scoldings or citations from Mr. Ranger:

  • Choose existing campsite in a used area – rather than creating another rock ring & trampling a fresh spot.
  • Always know fire conditions; get a fire permit if you have a campfire outside of a developed campground.
  • Set up camp away from other people. The majority of people go to the wilderness to experience quiet, peace, & solitude. There is plenty space for everyone, so spread out.

mountains

  • Never set camp in a meadow. It is a very fragile ecosystem.
  • Use an existing camp site when possible. Rebuilding and cleaning campfire pits is part of the job!
  • Camping right on the a creek bed or lake shore is damaging to the vegetation and wildlife areas. Place tent at least 20+ feet away from waters edge. Many camp site already exist in prime areas on creek front, so seek out those first. The deeper you go into the wood, the more you will find. Seclusion is possible, if you want to drive beyond the pavement.
  • Do not camp beneath large dead trees. Check tent spots for old overhanging branches too.
  • Do not camp near a mine shaft; Toxic heavy metals or radioactive debris could be present in the dirt.
  • Camping next to a lake, wetlands or a meadow can often result in abundant mosquitoes & insects overall.
  • Snow is possible anytime from October to May above 5000′ elevation. Chilly nights are common in summer.

deserts

  • Avoid camping inside desert canyons when the threat of rain is approaching: possible flash floods.
  • Consider the benefits of potential windbreaks in desert terrain. Large rocks, bushes, trees, your vehicle & even a hillside.
  • Picking a camp spot on a ridge line means sun exposure and windy conditions. Breezes will keep the bugs away and you can’t beat the better view, but wind can pick up at any time especially in desert regions.
  • Low elevation in late spring and fall means very warm temps; summer is triple digit heat most days.
  • Do not camp near a mine shaft; Toxic heavy metals or radioactive debris could be present in the dirt.

coastal

  • Avoid camping on fragile coastal cliffs; unstable, which can give way, caving in, resulting in danger to you.
  • Camping on the beach means watching the tides. Know where high water mark is before you set camp up.
  • Beach camping in early summer means low clouds and fog are likely. June Gloom can last months.

countryside

  • Avoid building campfires up against a large boulders or against a rock face.
  • Rivers controlled by hydroelectric dam systems mean that the water levels can change at any time without warning.
  • Never set camp in a wildflower meadow. It’s too fragile of an ecosystem.
  • Lower elevations in summer time means potential triple digit heat during mid-day.
  • Do not camp near a mine shaft; Toxic heavy metals or radioactive debris could be present in the dirt.
National Parks National Forests State Parks California BLM OHV routes California Wilderness
Beach Camping
 		California Forests
 		Wineries
 		Desert Parks
 		California Back Roads California Lakes
Wilderness

Jennie Lakes Wilderness

horse meadow trails

Sequoia / Kings Canyon / Mitchell Peak

outta print

USDA MAP may be out of print 2017

Jennie Lakes Wilderness is located in between two popular National Parks, via the paved back roads off Sequoia Generals Highway 198. Monarch Wilderness is north of Jennie Lakes, bordering Kings Canyon.

10,500 acres
26 miles of trail

Two lakes, Jennie Ellis Lake and Weaver Lake, set among granite outcroppings. Majority of the wWilderness is above 7,000 feet w/ red fir, lodgepole pine, and western white pine forest near treeline; abundance of spring wildflowers fill meadows. The two main lakes and Rowell Meadow are primary destinations for most backpackers wanting to camp overnight.

 

Sequoia National Park

Kings Canyon National Park

Monarch Wilderness

Impressive granite canyons, super steep. LOts of rugged rocky terrain, lower elevation to peaks of 11,000′. KINGS RIVER – Longest raging river in the Sierra, headwaters originating near Mount Whitney.

Road#14S11 – Big Meadows Road

National Forest & Wilderness Permits –

USDA Sequoia NF

More Wilderness Info & Links –

sierrawild.gov/wilderness/jennie-lakes
summitpost.org/jennie-lakes
Jennie Lakes Wilderness Wiki

Marvin Pass trailhead
Marvin Pass trailhead, 12 miles down Rd#14S11

Another Big Meadows?
Indeed, southern SEQ NF, on the East Kern Plateau.

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, Equestrian, Fishing, Hiking, Lakes & Reservoirs, Trailheads, Volcano, Wilderness

Thousand Lakes Wilderness

NorCal hiking & backpacking

Thousand Lakes California

Although the name suggests more, the number of lakes in this region is approximately seven: Eiler Lake and Box Lake are the 2 largest lakes within the Wilderness boundary. Logan Lake and North Battle Creek Reservoir are on the outskirts. Trout fishing is a popular recreation sport all around Lassen. Thousand Lakes Wilderness is part of the Cascade Range in northern California. 16,335 acres and 21 miles of trails, all managed by Lassen National Forest. The area lies midway between the mountain town of Burney and Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Volcanic activity and glaciers have combined to create the Lassen topography. Dominated by Crater Peak 8677′, which is the highest point in Lassen National Forest, this area is a reminder of the glacial action that eroded the original, much larger Thousand Lakes Volcano and created the many small lakes and ponds scattered throughout the region. Wildlife includes black-tailed deer, black bear, pika, pine marten, northern goshawk, spotted owl, pileated woodpecker, and Clark’s nutcracker. Even elk have been known to visit occasionally.

Lassen National Forest
Lassen Volcanic National Park


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Thousand Lakes Wilderness

Roads and trailheads surrounding Thousand Lakes Wilderness and the Wild Woods

Lassen Forest Road #16 – Ashpan Winter Recreation Area @ Hwy 44, leads to hikes on the west side of the Wilderness. Bunchgrass trailhead and Magee trailhead. LaTour State Forest, Ashpan Butte, Huckleberry Mountain, Fredonyer Peak, Crater Peak, and Whittington Butte. Lassen Route 16 is a graded dirt road that connects to Tamarack Road #4M001 at Burney Creek, near the north side of the Wilderness.

Road #32N17 – access to North Battle Creek Reservoir
Road #32N16
Road #32N24

Thousand Lakes Wilderness Map
Road #32N31 – access to North Battle Creek Reservoir

Road #32N18 leads to PG&E North Battle Creek Reservoir
North Battle Creek Campground: elevation 5600? / 15 camp sites / open Apr-Oct

Road #26 on the north side of the Wilderness, connects Hwy 89 @ Hat Creek, west to Road #32N22. Cypress trailhead is located on a side route nearby.

Road #32N23 is up on Burney Mountain elev. 7863′, another hang glider launch site.

Road #33N25 leads to the Tamarack trailhead
Road #34N78 off Hwy 44, near Logan Lake and route leads to McElroy Flat

Road #32N35 behind Burney connects to Hat Creek (the back way).

 

LASSEN AREA MAPS –

Lassen National Forest Map
Thousand Lakes Wilderness Map

 

List of Thousand Lakes Wilderness trailheads:

Bunchgrass Trailhead
Magee Trailhead
Cypress Trailhead
Tamarack Trailhead

 

List of nearby towns:

California Deserts, Hot Springs, Palm Oasis, Primitive Hot Springs

Guadalupe Canyon Hot Springs

Guadalupe Canyon Baja Hot Springs

Canon de Guadalupe

Baja Hot Springs Camping Resort

 

Baja California Hot Tub

40 miles SW of Mexicali – Laguna Salada off Mexican Highway 2

Guadalupe Canyon Oasis
Palm Canyon Hot Spring Camping Resort
619-639-7597

 

Off road destination, palm canyon in Baja California Norte
East of San Diego
SW of El Centro / Mexicali

Imagine a palm oasis canyon in a remote area of the Baja desert; Cool springs that feed the lush landscape with huge boulders & cliff diving waterfalls. With each campsite featuring it’s very own custom hot springs tub. This place was a paradise 20 years ago, but is now over-developed w/ large groups, parties and camping families. If you can handle the 30+ miles of unimproved dirt roads, this spot is worth a visit mid-week. Winter months are prime time to visit the desert. Temperatures are moderate, days are pleasant & midweek has minimal tourists. Avoid holiday weekends as crowds a can get rowdy and disrupt the peaceful setting. Summer is triple digit heat for months. This canyon is hard to reach and inside a third world country, but well worth the distant journey.

Baja MapsPlenty of great hiking and petroglyph canyons, cool pools and waterfalls, granite boulders, soothing warm waters & gorgeous desert scenery. Summers are usually roasting out here, so plan your vacation accordingly. Palalpas (built for shade) add to the charm & unique look. Each campsite is unique & has a different lay out. Reservations are recommended.

A family run set of campgrounds within a steep palm canyon. Hot Springs are piped to individual pools at each campsite for a maximum of privacy. A cold creek runs through the canyon as well, feeding the palm grove below & waterfalls way up canyon. A desert oasis set upon the slopes of the Sierra Juarez Mountains in Baja.

getting there is a journey –

Recommended high clearance vehicle, sport utility vehicle, or truck. The last 35 miles of the trip is through rough & rugged sandy roads.

nearest towns –

Guided tours to Guadalupe Canyon can be booked thru Baja Trek. We are no longer offering Baja California trips with Total Escape Adventures

Baja hot spring photos from Total Escape Adventures trips –
FEB 2000
NOV 2000
APR 2001
NOV 2001
NOV 2002

Lazy Afternoon in Baja

Pool Reflections 5

Wilderness

Desolation Wilderness

Desolation Wilderness Area

63,690 acres, a federally protected wilderness area located along the crest of the Sierra Nevada mountain range – in between Lake Tahoe and the Gold Country, on the western slopes. This is back country Tahoe @ tree-line, where big, bare granite rock of the High Sierra meets the snow melt in 80 alpine lakes; several streams; hiking, fishing horseback riding, and backpacking. Elevation range approx. 6000′ – 9,985′

El Dorado National Forest

916-573-2600

The Tahoe Rim Trail and Pacific Crest Trail pass through the wilderness.

Desolation Wilderness Map
Desolation Wilderness Map
(National Forest Service USDA)

Desolation Wilderness Topo Map
Desolation Trail Map
(Tom Harrison Maps)

List of Desolation Wilderness trailheads:

  • Loon Lake Trailhead
  • Buck Island Trailhead
  • Van Vleck Trailhead
  • Rockbound Trailhead
  • Twin Lakes Trailhead
  • Lyons Trailhead
  • Twin Bridges Trailhead
  • Ralston Trailhead
  • Echo Trailhead
  • Echo Lakes Trailhead
  • Glen Alpine Trailhead
  • Mount Tallac Trailhead
  • Bayview Trailhead
  • Eagle Falls Trailhead
  • Meeks Bay Trailhead
  • Horsetail Falls Trailhead

List of nearby towns:


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Campsites, Lakes & Reservoirs

San Diego Lakes

San Diego county has numerous recreational lakes, but only a few that allow overnight camping. Oak filled valleys and pine forests are nearby, but if you are seeking alpine lakes, surrounded by granite peaks and towering forests – then look to north for the Sierra Nevada mountains. Southern California landscape is nearly a desert terrain, with seasonal creeks and minimal rivers, so you won’t find lush greenery with natural lakes down here.

lakes San Diego

cleveland National Forest map

Campgrounds

Angeles Campgrounds

Camping Los Angeles – Angeles Crest Camping

Angeles Crest Hwy CA 2

campground elev spots veg toilet water notes
Appletree Campground 6,200′ 8 pines vault piped Big Pines Hwy
Basin Campground 3,400′ 15 – – – CLOSED
Bear Campground 5,200′ 15 – vault no –
Big Rock Campground 5,000′ 8 – vault crk sm RV, 4WD
Blue Ridge Campground 8,000′ 8 pines vault no May-Nov, sm RV
Buckhorn Campground 6300′ 40 pines vault no May-Nov, sm RV
Cabin Flat Campground 5,300′ 12 – vault no CLOSED
Cienaga Campground 2,100′ 12 oaks vault no May-Dec
Coldbrook Campground 3,350′ 22 – vault piped sm RV
Cottonwood Campground 2,600′ 22 – vault no –
Guffy Campground 8,300′ 6 – vault no May-Nov, 4WD
Horse Flats Campground 5,700′ 25 pines vault no April-Nov
Jackson Lake Campgr 6,100′ 8 pines vault summer May-Dec
Live Oak Campground 2,000′ 7 oak – – CLOSED
Manker Flats Campground 6,000′ 21 – flush piped sm RV
Messenger Flats Camp 5,500′ 10 pines vault no Corrals, April-Nov
Millard Campground 1,900′ 5 oaks vault no Altadena, Chaney Trail
Monte Cristo Camp 3,600′ 19 oaks vault piped RV, Hwy 2, N3
Mount Pacifico 7,100′ 7 pines vault no May-Nov
Mountain Oak 6,200′ 17 oak flush piped May-Nov
Peavine Campground 6,100′ 4 – vault piped Big Pines Hwy
Prospect Campground 2,100′ 22 – – – CLOSED
Rocky Point Camp 3,400′ 3 – vault summer –
Sage Campground 3,400′ 4 – vault no Cheseboro Rd
Sawmill Campground 5,200′ 8 – vault no sm RV
Soledad Campground 2,000′ 6 – – – CLOSED
South Fork 4,500′ 21 oaks vault no May-Nov, sm RV
Spring Camp 4,700′ 3 – vault no Rincon-Shortcut Route
Spunky Campground 3,300′ 10 – vault no –
Streamside Campground 2,500′ 9 – vault no poison oak
Sycamore Flats 4,200′ 11 – vault summer sm RV
Upper Shake 4,400′ 18 – vault no May-Dec.
Zuni Campground 1,700′ 10 – vault no –

Chilao Campground

tunnel angeles crest

nearby towns –

Angeles Maps – hiking, OHV & mountain biking –