Slow going on the dirt road but boy is it worth it. There are a couple of water spigots. Pack your trash out when you leave. Do not need 4WD to get there but it’s sure fun on all the truck trails if you do! Lots of trees and shade, 26 sites that are usually pretty full on the weekends. Vault toilets. Fire rings, bear boxes and picnic tables provide the basics. The drive out to the lake is also worth it if kids want to play in the water. Kayak and small boat rentals, fishing with stocked waters. All in all a great way to spend a weekend in the mountains.

There’s 21 sites spread out amongst Jeffrey pines as well as others. Tent pads and fire pits and bear boxes. Vault toilets and a water spigot. Trails to multiple peaks and passes all from this alpine valley. Coyotes, fox, deer and if you hike high enough you might see some bighorn sheep. The night sky splashed with the Milky Way visible most nights. Mainly a thru hikers stop or base camp for those venturing into the higher elevations for a few days. Beautiful meadows and streams running through it with marmots popping up from the rocks. It’s a gem of a spot. Day hike to Chicken Spring Lake for an icy dip when temperatures climb.

I’ve used this spot for more 2-5 day jaunts than I can remember. My kids have been treated to this place for weekends off the grid since they’ve been toddlers. Peaceful. Beautiful. Accessible.