Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking

Just far enough off the beaten path to keep the crowds away, Virginia Lakes is an oasis for anglers and those who wish to get away from it all.

A mere six miles off Highway 395 from Conway Summit (about halfway between Lee Vining and Bridgeport), Virginia Lakes consists of nearly a dozen alpine lakes located more at than 9,000 feet high in the Sierra. Three of the lakes are drive-to, with options to take anything from short strolls to long hikes to reach many others.

Trumbull, Little Virginia and Big Virginia Lakes are all accessible by vehicles and offer camping and solid fishing. The Virginia Lakes Resort includes cabins, a general store, but none of the usual distractions like television or internet access. It’s a little quieter, too, as gas-powered boats aren’t allowed.

The isolated location, hidden beneath Dunderberg Peak and Black Mountain, gives the Virginia Lakes Basin a cozy and quiet vibe, which helps keep the crowds away, making the Virginia Lakes even more appealing to many of us.