West Kaiser Campground

This is a free dispersed type camping area with vault toilets that is near a small creek. No water is available other than the creek.

The best access is through the small town of Big Creek which has a small store/ deli. Be aware that the road out of Big Creek is extremely steep and narrow but scenic. Please watch out for oncoming traffic. Other access routes include from the West end of Huntington Lake and from Kaiser Pass.

After the climb out of Big creek is a long two lane paved road that goes along the San Joaquin Canyon. This an area that was severely burned by the creek fire so there are many hazards present such as mud slides, boulders, and fallen trees. The road is not regularly cleared so conditions can vary greatly. In October 2021 the road was down to one lane in many places due to piles of mud that built up on the inside lane during a rain storm. Please be careful and check with the Prather ranger station, especially early or late in the season, to confirm that the road is passable. Also do not rely on the road if heavy rain is possibly, it has a history of huge mudslides that have destroyed portions of it.

In May through July expect abundant wildflowers along the road.

If you have a capable vehicle I recommend visiting Mt. Tom for a 360 degree view from a former fire lookout. Making a loop over Kaiser Pass and/or visiting Florence Lake is also recommended.

There are many OHV opportunities but be aware that only street legal vehicles are allowed on the main road through the area.