I loved this area and have been there twice. Have used the campsites once and they are very scenic and have what you need for primitive camping with being able to drive your car to it. The campsites also double as picnic areas when not used by campers and you can enjoy the wildlife, like chipmunks. The fire tower is a must!!!! Yes I hiked (fairly easy) up to it both times. And yes I went up the steps to the top both times too. The view is worth it and the Ranger makes it a great learning experience. Not sure if Billy is still there but he was great and there was a write up on him in People one year, which inspired me to go there on my next trip out there. This is truly a trip that needs to be on a bucket list!!!! (As a side note, lots of photos attached but I had to use the ones in my scrapbook since a computer crash wiped out the photos themselves, enjoy. Did find just a few that survived.)