If you go in on camp bird rd. this will take you to an area above the upper blue lakes. Unless you want to hike down into the lakes don’t go this route.

Go in through Ridgeway to 62 and take East Dallas Road. 5 miles or so up this gravel road will get you to the official campground for Lower Blue Lakes. There are a ton of walk in tent spots and roughly 10 drive in sites with a lot more dispersed areas. From previous reviews we thought we needed to get here early to grab a spot but there are so many options! Spots have a stone firepit at each.

The hike up to lower blue lakes is 3.4 miles with roughly 1,600 elevation gain. We got caught in a hail storm after we reached the lake. It rained every afternoon we were there. Make sure to bring a rain jacket, it gets chilly! Hike is mostly shaded with amazing views, but it is uphill.

Camping at the lakes is free and dispersed.
Dogs are welcome and must be on leash or under voice command.

There is another trailhead at the base for mount Blaine, great hike if you’re staying in the area and want an easier hike.