February 2008 Archives

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Tioga Lake

Road condition:   Paved   Elevation: 9,500  

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120 / Just outside Yosemite National Park

Description: A beautiful lake surrounded by towering mountain tops, Tioga Lake is a popular camping and fishing spot just outside the park

Lake size: 73 acres   Species: Planted Rainbow trout

Closest town or supplies: Tioga Pass Resort, Lee Vining

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Nearest campground: Tioga Lake Campground

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: 35,000 annually

Nearby fishing: Ellery Lake, Saddlebag Lake

Additional information: The lake does not have a boat launch, although small prams and canoes may be carried to the water.  The best chance to catch a carry-over trout is at the Glacier Creek inlet.  Glacier Creek also has some small Brook trout in the area just above the lake.

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 11 miles just past Ellery Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Ellery Lake 

Elevation: 9,477

Road condition:   Paved       

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120   Area/description: Eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park

Lake size: 68 acres    Species: Planted Rainbow trout

Closest town or supplies: Tioga Lake Resort, Lee Vining / Bell’s Sporting Goods (760) 647-6406

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Facilities:

Nearest campground: Ellery Lake Campground

Boating:

Fishing season: General        Best times:

Fishing Tips:  Be sure to fish Lee Vining Creek inlet, especially during ice-out.

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: 20,000 + annually

Additional information: The lake has no boat launch, although small boats may be carried to the water.

Nearby fishing: Tioga Lake

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately nine miles to the lake.

Saddleback Creek

Road condition:   Paved       

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120 / outside the Yosemite Park entrance

Description: Saddlebag Creek is a small 2.75 mile, open water creek that follows the road to Saddlebag Lake and campground

Species: Planted Rainbow trout and small wild Brook trout closer to the lake

Closest town or supplies:

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Nearest campground: Saddlebag Lake Campground and Junction Campground

Fishing Tips:  Utilize stealth and a low profile before you cast upstream.

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: 2,000 + annually

Nearby fishing: Saddlebag Lake, Twenty Lakes Basin, Ellery Lake, Gardisky Lake, Tioga Lake

Additional information:

Directions: From the junction of Highway 120 and Highway 395 just outside Lee Vining, take Highway 120 approximately eleven miles to the Saddlebag Lake Road on the right. Look for parking spots along the creek.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Gardisky Lake

Elevation: 10,500

Day hike fishing: The trail is an arduous, steep climb for a little over a mile. The trail climbs 720 feet in a series of switch-backs for three-quarters of a mile.  The lake does not typically thaw until late June or early July.

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120   Area/description: Eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park

Lake sizes: 24 acres   Species: Brook trout, 9 to 12-inches

Closest town or supplies: Tioga Pass Resort; Lee Vining / Bell’s Sporting Goods (760) 647-6406

Nearest campground: Saddlebag Campground, Ellery Lake Campground, Tioga Lake Campground

Fishing season: General        Best times: Early summer until Fall

Fishing Tips:  (Hopefully, I can report back the summer of 2008, but the lake is highly touted by author John Barbier in his Eastern Sierra Fishing Guide for Day Hikers)

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information:

Additional information: It is not uncommon for hikers living at lower elevations to experience aching lungs, headaches and nausea due to altitude sickness.  Be sure to drink plenty of purified or filtered water all day on the trail whether you are thirsty or not.  Bring along sun screen, sun glasses, a hat and an outer garment.  Additionally, I always recommend carrying in your day pack a first aid kit, a plastic rain coat and a mosquito net just in case.

Nearby fishing: Tuolumne Meadows

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately eleven miles to Saddlebag Lake Road.  Turn right on Saddlebag Lake Road and look for the trailhead sign and parking area for Gardisky Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Saddlebag Lake / 20 Lakes Basin  

Photo courtesy of Saddlebag Lake Resort

Elevation: 10,086

Road condition:   Paved  Note: This is the highest paved road ending in California.

Day hikes to fishing: Twenty Lakes Basin  Note: For a map and listing of the lakes visit the web site of Saddlebag Lake Resort.

Region: Tioga Pass /
Highway 120   Area/description: Eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park

Closest town or supplies: Lee Vining / Bell’s Sporting Goods

Contacts: Saddlebag Lake Resort, Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Facilities: Small store and café, boat launch, boat taxi to wilderness lakes

Nearest campground: Saddlebag Campground, Junction Campground and Sawmill Campground, a walk-in campground close to the lake.

Boating: Boat launch

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: 29,000+ annually

Additional information: The resort owners, Carmen and Richard Ernst, provide a boat taxi service to the back side of the lake and the 20 Lakes Basin.  The cost is $10 per adult for the 2008 season. The first shuttle is at 7am and the last shuttle is at 6:45 pm.  During the busy season, shuttles run on the half hour.  The shuttle is restricted to ten people so if you want an early start, it is best to make arrangements the day before for the earliest shuttles.  The wilderness loop trail is approximately five miles, but since there is only a 500 feet elevation gain, a continuous non-stop hike would take roughly three hours.  The resort typically opens mid June and always closes September 30.  Richard Ernst said that the resort is usually buried in 25 feet of snow during the winter months so the opening date is subject to snow removal.  Mr. Ernst asked me to remind readers that if they plan on staying over night in the wilderness area they need to pick up an over-night pass at the visitor center in Lee Vining.  Many back-packers are disappointed when they have to drive 24 miles round trip when they discover that the resort owners can not issue a permit.

Photo courtesy of Saddlebag Lake Resort

Nearby fishing: Saddlebag Creek, Gardisky Lake, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake

Directions: From the junction of Highway 120 and Highway 395 just outside Lee Vining, take Highway 120 approximately eleven miles to the Saddlebag Lake Road on the right. Follow Saddlebag Lake Road 2.5 miles to the lake..

Lee Vining Creek – South Fork

South Fork of Lee Vining Creek / Between Tioga Lake and Ellery Lake

Road condition:   Paved     

Region: Highway 120 near Yosemite National Park entrance       

Drainage: 20 Lakes Basin, Tioga and Ellery Lake

Description: A small 1.5 miles creek from Tioga Creek outlet to Ellery Lake, most of the creek is easily accessed from Highway 120.  Similar to Dana Fork inside the park, the south fork of Lee Vining Creek is stocked with 8,000 plus Rainbow trout throughout the fishing season.

Species: Planted Rainbow trout with some wild trout

Closest town or supplies: Tioga Pass Resort, Lee Vining

Nearest campground: Tioga Pass Campground, Ellery Lake Campground, Junction Campground, Saddlebag Lake Campground

Fishing season: General is from the last Saturday in April to November 15   

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait: Power Bait, salmon eggs, small spinner

Favorite fly patterns: Standard attractor patterns

Stocking information: 8,000+ annually

Nearby fishing: Tioga Lake, Ellery Lake, Lee Vining Creek

Additional information: (See Lee Vining Creek)

Directions: From the Highway 395 Junction with Highway 120 near Lee Vining, turn left on Highway 120 and proceed approximately nine miles to Ellery Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Tioga Lake

Road condition:   Paved   Elevation: 9,500  

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120 / Just outside Yosemite National Park

Description: A beautiful lake surrounded by towering mountain tops, Tioga Lake is a popular camping and fishing spot just outside the park

Lake size: 73 acres   Species: Planted Rainbow trout

Closest town or supplies: Tioga Pass Resort, Lee Vining

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Nearest campground: Tioga Lake Campground

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: 35,000 annually

Nearby fishing: Ellery Lake, Saddlebag Lake

Additional information: The lake does not have a boat launch, although small prams and canoes may be carried to the water.  The best chance to catch a carry-over trout is at the Glacier Creek inlet.  Glacier Creek also has some small Brook trout in the area just above the lake.

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 11 miles just past Ellery Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Middle Gaylor Lake (Upper and Lower)

Elevation: 10,350

Day hike fishing

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120   Area/description: Eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park

Lake sizes: Unknown    Species: Brook trout

Closest town or supplies: Tioga Pass Resort; Lee Vining / Bell’s Sporting Goods (760) 647-6406

Nearest campground: Ellery Lake Campground, Tioga Lake Campground

Fishing season: General        Best times: Early summer until Fall

Fishing Tips:  (Hopefully I can report back the summer of 2008.)

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: Stocking programs were discontinued in 1991.

Additional information: It is not uncommon for hikers living at lower elevations to experience aching lungs, headaches and nausea due to altitude sickness.  Be sure to drink plenty of purified or filtered water all day on the trail whether you are thirsty or not.  Bring along sun screen, sun glasses, a hat and an outer garment.  Additionally, I always recommend carrying in your day pack a first aid kit, a plastic rain coat and a mosquito net just in case.

Nearby fishing: Tuolumne Meadows

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately twelve miles to the park entrance.  The trail to Middle Gaylor Lake is near Tioga Pass Lodge.  It is a strenuous one mile hike to this stark, wind-swept and barren looking lake.  From my research a number of writers recommend Upper and Lower Gaylor Lakes, which offer better fishing and significantly less pressure, no doubt due to the high elevation and the stress that creates on lungs un-accustomed to depleted oxygen. 

Map courtesy of mytopo.com

Granite Lakes (Upper and Lower)

Elevation:

Day hike to fishing:

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120   Area/description: Eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park

Lake size:     Depth:      Species:

Closest town or supplies: Tioga Pass Resort, Lee Vining / Bell’s Sporting Goods (760) 647-6406

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Nearest campground: Ellery Lake Campground, Tioga Lake Campground, Saddlebag Lake Campground

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait: Use small lures such as Kastmasters, Daredevils and Panther-Martins.  Bring smaller lures, but have a variety of color combinations to entice both shallow and deep cruising trout. (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: Stocking programs were discontinued in 1991.

Additional information: It is not uncommon for hikers living at lower elevations to experience aching lungs, headaches and nausea due to altitude sickness.  Be sure to drink plenty of purified or filtered water all day on the trail whether you are thirsty or not.  Bring along sun screen, sun glasses, a hat and an outer garment.  Additionally, I always recommend carrying in your day pack a first aid kit, a plastic rain coat and a mosquito net just in case.

Nearby fishing: Tuolumne Meadows

Directions: The trailhead is located at the Yosemite National Park Entrance Station.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com

Tuolumne River / Tuolumne Meadows / Dana Fork and Lyell Fork

Road condition:   Paved    

Region: Tioga Pass / Highway 120   Drainage: Dana Fork, Lyell Fork

Description: Tuolumne Meadows is the largest sub-alpine meadow in the Sierra Mountains.  In spite of the number of people up and down the road, Tuolumne Meadows is still lovely with its lush green meadows, pristine waters, abundant wildflowers and towering granite mountains. Formed by two forks near the highway crossing, the river flows west towards Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, San Francisco’s chief water supply.  Dana Fork parallels Highway 120 from Dana Meadows at the base of Tioga Pass.  A shallow creek, Dana Fork, nonetheless, provides good fishing for smaller brook trout.  Keep in mind, however, that Tuolumne Meadows is one of the most heavily visited places after Yosemite Falls, and anglers harass and harry little brook trout in this shallow, clear creek.  Fly fishers will have more success hiking up the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River.  Affording more water and less pressure, the Lyell Fork brookies are less spooked and slightly larger.  Most of the Brook trout will average 6 to 9 inches, but there are some resident Brown trout that will bulk up to the 10 to 14-inch range. Good pocket water may be found further up the trail, as the creek heads into the canyon.  The trail is rarely more than a half-mile from Lyell Fork water.  It is common in the summer months to see lots of back-packers using the John Muir Trail that follows closely to Lyell Fork, but the further that you walk the trail the fewer anglers you will encounter. The river itself is wide and shallow with little cover.  The trout are generally small, and fly fishers have the most success keeping a low profile and casting gently upstream.

Species: Brook trout, brown trout

Closest town or supplies:

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Nearest campground: Tuolumne Meadows Campground

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Fishing season:  Opens the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips:  Attractor patterns properly presented will entice hungry Brook trout.

Favorite lures or bait: Use the smallest of because the creeks are shallow and difficult to cast and retrieve.  Make your casts downstream.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Lures and Bait)

Favorite fly patterns: Use attractor dry fly patterns for the streams and fly & Bubble technique with small nymphs such as Hare’s Ear, Zug Bug, Bead-Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or a Tellico Shrimp for the lakes.  (See Category: Fishing Tips – Best Fly Patterns and Techniques)

Stocking information: Fish stocking programs were discontinued in 1991. A continuing debate on whether or not fishing should be allowed in national parks has been gaining support for a number of years.

Nearby fishing: Ellery Lake, Gaylor Lakes, Granite Lakes, Tioga Lake, Saddlebag Creek, Saddlebag Lake

Additional information: Both Tuolumne Meadows Resort and Tioga Pass Resort offer food and supplies.

Directions: Highway 120 ____ miles from Tioga Pass Visitor Center.

Twenty Lakes Basin (See Saddlebag Lake)

Lower Lee Vining Campground  

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,300

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 54

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 40 feet     No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: No      Picnic tables and fire rings                 

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 2.5 miles for the campground entrance on the right.

Cattleguard Campground  

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,325

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 16

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: No     Picnic tables and fire rings                  

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3 miles to the campground entrance on the left.

Moraine Campground  

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,350

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 27

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers 

Toilets: Portable    Water: No     Picnic tables and fire rings                  

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Plant Road.  Turn left and continue less than a quarter of a mile to the campground entrance at the end of the road.

Boulder Campground   

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,390

Season Length: 4/26-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 100

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  10   RV’s up to: 30 feet     No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: No      Picnic tables and fire rings                 

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Power Plant Road.  Turn left and then a quick right into the campground.

Aspen Campground  

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,490

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 56

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 40 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: Yes     Picnic tables and fire rings                 

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Power Plant Road.  Turn left and then drive four miles the campground.

Big Bend Campground    

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,800

Season Length: 4/26-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 17

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers 

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire rings                    

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Power Plant Road.  Turn left and then follow the sign to the campground.

Ellery Lake Campground     

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 9,500

Season Length: 6/1-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 21

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  12   RV’s up to: 30 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire rings                    

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Grocery store nearby

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information: Just outside the park boundary, Ellery Lake is a popular campground when the park campsites are full.  The lake is stocked, and small boats and small motors are allowed, although they must be carried to the water and hand launched.

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately ten miles to the campground entrance.

Saddlebag Campground        

Area: Tioga Pass

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 10.087

Season Length: 6/1-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 20

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 40 feet but there is a scarcity of level sites No Hook-ups Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Small store and café, fishing tackle, boat rental and boat taxi to the Twenty Lakes Basin. ( www.saddlebaglakeresort.com)

Nearby fishing: Saddlebag Creek, Ellery Lake, Gardisky Lake, Tioga Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  The campground is about a quarter of a mile from the lake with an excellent trail to the Twenty Lakes Basin.  The boat taxi, however, shaves off three miles.  Be prepared for cold weather at this elevation.  If you plan a hike, be aware that it is not uncommon for hikers living at lower elevations to experience aching lungs, headaches and nausea due to altitude sickness.  Be sure to drink plenty of purified or filtered water all day on the trail whether you are thirsty or not.  Bring along sun screen, sun glasses, a hat and an outer garment.  Additionally, I always recommend carrying in your day pack a first aid kit, a plastic rain coat and a mosquito net just in case.

Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 120 and Highway 395 just outside Lee Vining, take Highway 120 approximately eleven miles to the Saddlebag Lake Road on the right.  Turn onto Saddlebag Road and drive 2.5 miles to the campground.

Junction Campground  

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 9,600

Season Length: subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 13

Fee: $12.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: No      Picnic tables and fire grills                      

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 10 miles to Saddleback Road.  Turn right on Saddleback Road for the entrance to the campground.

Tioga Lake Campground  

Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 9,700

Season Length: 6/1-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 13

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 11 miles just past Ellery Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Lundy Lake and Mill Creek

Elevation: 7,750

Road condition:   Paved    

Day hikes to fishing: Upper Mill Creek,

Region: Inyo National Forest     Area/description: Lee Vining area

Lake size: 110 acres    Species: Rainbows, Brook and Brown trout

Closest town or supplies: Lee Vining

Contacts:

Facilities: Lodge, marina, grocery store, bait and tackle, coin-laundry, coin-showers, RV campground

Nearest campground: Primitive campsites are found on Mills Creek below the lake.

Boating: Boat launch and boat rentals

Fishing season: The season begins the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips

Favorite lures or bait: Power Bait, Zekes, inflated night crawlers

Favorite fly patterns:

Stocking information: 30,000+ annually

Additional information: Mill Creek is a tiny, brush-lined creek that, nonetheless, is home to trout hiding in the small pockets and undercut banks.

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Mill Creek, Virginia Lakes

Directions: From Highway 395 in Lee Vining, drive north approximately seven miles and turn left on Lundy Lake Road.  Continue five miles to the lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Virginia Lakes (Upper, Lower and Trumbull Lake + alpine lakes) The drainage offers 10 walk-in lakes within 1.5 miles.

Road condition:   Paved

Elevation: Upper 9,300

Lake size: Upper – 27 acres; Lower - 13 acres

Day hikes to fishing: Ten small lakes with easy access.  Visit Virginia Lake Resort web site for great hiking information.  http://www.virginialakesresort.com/hikingtrails.htm 

 Photo courtesy of Virginia Lakes Resort.

Region: Southern boundary for Toiyabe National Forest       

Drainage: Virginia Creek drains into Bridgeport Reservoir

Description: Virginia Lakes have three lakes that may be accessed by road.  The first is Trumbull Lake, and it is reached by turning right on a spur road to Trumbull Lake Campground.  The next lake accessed by road is Little Virginia Lake and resort.  It too is accessed from a spur road to the left.  Continuing straight ahead will lead to Upper Virginia Lake.  From Upper Virginia Lake a trail leads west to Red Lake, or you may take the trail to Blue Lake, which drains into Upper Virginia Lake.  From Blue Lake the trail forks either to Cooney Lake and the Frog Lakes or the northern fork will lead to Moat Lake at 10,450 feet elevation.

            Trumbull Lake is reached by a short hike on a trail from the campground, but it also has a rough road access to a parking area on the lake.  It is small at 12 acres and offers good shoreline access as well as exposure to lots of mosquitoes in the early summer.  Besides using repellant, one escape is to fish from a float tube.  It generally receives upwards of 10,000 planted trout annually.

            Lower or Little Virginia Lake is a 10-acre lake with a resort that offers boat rentals, but no motors are allowed.  It is a developed lake with summer homes and a small store.  It is annually stocked with 15,000 Rainbows.

            Upper Virginia Lake is the largest at 27 acres.  It offers good parking and easy access to the shoreline, and it is annually planted with 12,000 Rainbows.  Row boats may be rented, but motors are prohibited.  Red Lake is very close, and it too offers good fishing for small Rainbows and Brook trout.

Species: Rainbows and Browns

Closest town or supplies: Virginia Lakes Resort, Lee Vining or Bridgeport

Contacts: Virginia Lakes Resort (760) 647-6484; 19 rental cabins, boat rentals (no motors allowed)

Nearest campground: Virginia Lakes Campground.

Photo courtesy of Virginia Lakes Resort

Fishing season: The season opens the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips: Carolyn Webb of Virginia Lakes Resort offers good tips on her web site for fishing the local lakes and creeks.  Her bait preference is night crawlers, Power Bait and then salmon eggs in Little Virginia Lake.  She recommends a sliding egg sinker with an 18" two-pound leader on all bait rigs.  Until such time that I can make a color illustration, Carolyn recommends the following bait rigs.  (The order is from the weight to the hook. Use Improved Clinch Knot for connections.)

Worm Rig: 1/4 oz. egg sinker in front of a #14 Snap Swivel.  18-22" - 2lb leader, ending with a #10-14 worm hook.

Power Bait Rig: 1/4 oz. egg sinker in front of a #14 Snap Swivel. 18-22" - 2lb leader, ending with a #16 or 18 treble hook.

Power Worm Rig: 1/4 oz. egg sinker in front of a #14 Snap Swivel. 18-22" - 2lb leader, ending with a #14 dry fly hook.

Cricket Rig: 1 or 2 BB weights in front of a Barrel Swivel. 18-24" - 2lb leader, ending with a #10 worm hook.

Fly-Bubble, Dry Fly: medium clear bubble 1/2 - 3/4 full of water in front of a #14 Snap Swivel.  5-6' of 2-3 # leader ending with a #14-22 dry fly.

Fly-Bubble, Wet-Streamer: medium clear bubble 1/2 - 3/4 full of water in front of a #14 Snap Swivel. 5-6' of 2-3 lb. leader ending with a streamer fly pattern or nymph. 

Favorite fly patterns:  Denny Rickards Seal Buggers, Matuka and Zonker streamer, Marabou Leech, along with traditional nymph patterns such as the Gold-Ribbed Hare's Ear, Pheasant Tail and Zug Bug may be used with the Bubble-Fly technique.  (For more fishing tips, visit fishingtips101.com.

Stocking information: 13,000 annually for Virginia Creek; 12,000+ annually for both Upper Virginia Lake and Lower Virginia Lake, as well as some larger plants from Mono County.

Nearby fishing: Trumbull Lake, Virginia Lake

Additional information:

Directions: From Lee Vining, drive north 12.5 miles on Highway 395 to the top of Conway Summit.  Turn left on Virginia Lakes Road and continue approximately eight miles to the lake. 

Virginia Creek

Road condition:   Paved 

Day hikes to fishing: Eight small lakes with easy access   

Region: Southern boundary for Toiyabe National Forest       

Drainage: Virginia Creek drains into Bridgeport Reservoir

Description: Virginia Creek is a small creek offering pools, riffles and a meadow section.  Although Virginia Lakes Road closely parallels the creeks in some places, Road 139, which forks off Virginia Lakes Road and rejoins it close to the lakes, directly accesses the creek. Road 139 may have a delayed opening until June due to snow conditions.

Species: Rainbows and Browns

Closest town or supplies: Virginia Lakes Resort, Lee Vining or Bridgeport

Contacts: Virginia Lakes Resort

Nearest campground: Virginia Lakes Campground or Trumbull Campground

Fishing season: The season opens the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns:

Stocking information: 13,000 annually for Virginia Creek; 12,000+ annually for both Upper Virginia Lake and Lower Virginia Lake, as well as some larger plants from Mono County.

Nearby fishing: Trumbull Lake, Virginia Lake

Additional information:

Directions: From Lee Vining, drive north 12.5 miles on Highway 395 to the top of Conway Summit.  Turn left on Virginia Lakes Road and continue approximately eight miles to the lake. 

Virginia Creek

Road condition:   Paved 

Day hikes to fishing: Eight small lakes with easy access   

Region: Southern boundary for Toiyabe National Forest       

Drainage: Virginia Creek drains into Bridgeport Reservoir

Description: Virginia Creek is a small creek offering pools, riffles and a meadow section.  Although Virginia Lakes Road closely parallels the creeks in some places, Road 139, which forks off Virginia Lakes Road and rejoins it close to the lakes, directly accesses the creek. Road 139 may have a delayed opening until June due to snow conditions.

Species: Rainbows and Browns

Closest town or supplies: Virginia Lakes Resort, Lee Vining or Bridgeport

Contacts: Virginia Lakes Resort

Nearest campground: Virginia Lakes Campground or Trumbull Campground

Fishing season: The season opens the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns:

Stocking information: 13,000 annually for Virginia Creek; 12,000+ annually for both Upper Virginia Lake and Lower Virginia Lake, as well as some larger plants from Mono County.

Nearby fishing: Trumbull Lake, Virginia Lake

Additional information:

Directions: From Lee Vining, drive north 12.5 miles on Highway 395 to the top of Conway Summit.  Turn left on Virginia Lakes Road and continue approximately eight miles to the lake. 

Virginia Creek

Road condition:   Paved 

Day hikes to fishing: Eight small lakes with easy access   

Region: Southern boundary for Toiyabe National Forest       

Drainage: Virginia Creek drains into Bridgeport Reservoir

Description: Virginia Creek is a small creek offering pools, riffles and a meadow section.  Although Virginia Lakes Road closely parallels the creeks in some places, Road 139, which forks off Virginia Lakes Road and rejoins it close to the lakes, directly accesses the creek. Road 139 may have a delayed opening until June due to snow conditions.

Species: Rainbows and Browns

Closest town or supplies: Virginia Lakes Resort, Lee Vining or Bridgeport

Contacts: Virginia Lakes Resort

Nearest campground: Virginia Lakes Campground or Trumbull Campground

Fishing season: The season opens the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns:

Stocking information: 13,000 annually for Virginia Creek; 12,000+ annually for both Upper Virginia Lake and Lower Virginia Lake, as well as some larger plants from Mono County.

Nearby fishing: Trumbull Lake, Virginia Lake

Additional information:

Directions: From Lee Vining, drive north 12.5 miles on Highway 395 to the top of Conway Summit.  Turn left on Virginia Lakes Road and continue approximately eight miles to the lake. 

Day Hike: Green Lake is three miles by trail with a moderate climb to the lake, which is set at 9,000 feet elevation.  Green Lake is almost fifty acres and offers good fishing for Rainbows, Browns and Brook trout in the 10 to 14-inch range.  For those with younger legs, East Lake is another mile and a half up the trail. (Bring sun screen, a hat, polarized glasses, mosquito repellant, a plastic rain coat and plenty to eat – don’t forget your camera!)

Road condition:   Paved to dirt  

Drainage: A tributary of Robinson Creek

Description: Green Creek is a small, brushy creek that runs shallow in places, which makes it tough to cast.  Try poking and dabbing with bait or flies.

Species: Rainbows and some Browns

Closest town or supplies:

Contacts: Ken’s Sporting Goods in Bridgeport (760) 932-7707; The Trout Fly in Bridgeport (760) 934-2517.

Nearest campground: Green Creek Campground; Twin Lakes campgrounds

Fishing season: The season opens on the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns:

Stocking information: 6,000+ annually

Nearby fishing: Robinson Creek, Twin Lakes

Additional information: Green Creek also has a small pond that may be reached with a high-clearance vehicle or 4WD.  The pond is stocked and holds carry-over Rainbows, along with a Brown trout and Brook trout.  The pond is easily seen from the road leading to the trailhead.

Directions: From Highway 395, five miles south of Bridgeport, turn left on Green Creek Road and drive ten miles to the trailhead.  Green Creek may also be accessed from the Virginia Lakes Road.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Twin Lakes Recreation Area (Upper and Lower)

Lake name:  Elevation:

Road condition:   Paved     

Day hikes to fishing: (See Barney Lake)

Region: Toiyabe National Forest    Area/description: Twelve miles south of Bridgeport

Lake size: Upper-265 acres; Lower-391 acres    Depth: 100+    

Species: Rainbows and Browns

Closest town or supplies: Lake resorts or Bridgeport

Contacts: Annett’s Mono Village (760) 932-7071; Twin Lakes Resort (760) 932-7751; Ken’s Sporting Goods in Bridgeport (760) 932-7707; The Trout Fly in Bridgeport (760) 934-2517.

Facilities: Lodge, marina, grocery store, bait and tackle, coin-laundry, coin-showers, RV campground

Nearest campground: Five campgrounds are spread out on Robinson Creek below Lower Twin Lake (Crags Campground; Honeymoon Flat; Lower Twin Lakes Campground; Paha Campground; Robinson Creek Campground)

Boating: Speed restriction

Fishing season: The season opens the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns: Both lakes attract fly fishers in float tubes fishing the evening hatch.

Stocking information: 45,000+ annually in both lakes + Alper plants

Additional information: Although the Brown trout fishery is in decline, the state record Brown was taken from Upper Twin Lake at 26lbs-8 oz. in 1987.  Previous to that record, the state record for a Brown trout was 26-pounds taken in 1983 in Lower Twin Lake.  Large Browns still feed on planted trout, and some say that the record could be broken again. Note: The small connecting stream between the lakes is closed to fishing.

Nearby fishing: Robinson Creek

Directions: From Highway 395 south of Bridgeport, turn left on Twin Lakes Road and travel approximately 11 miles to Lower Twin Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Robinson Creek / Twin Lakes drainage creek

Road condition:   Paved      

Region: Twin Lakes       

Description: Flowing through campgrounds in an alpine setting and alongside the Twin Lakes Road, Robinson Creek is a popular fishing spot both for its beauty and access to good fishing for stocked Rainbows and elusive Brown trout.

Species: Rainbows, Browns and Brookies

Closest town or supplies: Twin Lake’s resorts, Bridgeport

Contacts: Annett’s Mono Village (760) 932-7071; Twin Lakes Resort (760) 932-7751

Nearest campground: Many campgrounds in the Twin Lakes area

Fishing season: The season opens on the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait: All baits work well, especially in the early summer when fish are really hungry and the water is cold.  Small jigs, weighted grubs and small tube worms work especially well in the pocket water.

Favorite fly patterns: Attractor patterns

Stocking information: 53,000 + annually

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes

Additional information: Robinson Creek has heavy fishing pressure throughout the summer season.

Directions: From Highway 395 south of Bridgeport, turn left on Twin Lakes Road and travel approximately 11 miles to Lower Twin Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Barney Lake / Above Twin Lakes

Elevation: 8,300

Day Hike: 3 ½ miles on a moderate grade

Region: Twin Lakes          Area/description: A picturesque cirque lake, Barney Lake also provides hikers with the opportunity to fish upper Robinson Creek.

Lake size: 12 acres      Species: 7 to 10-inch Brook trout and Rainbows

Closest town or supplies: Twin Lakes Resort, Bridgeport

Nearest campground: Twin Lakes campgrounds

Fishing season: The general season opens on the last Saturday in April and closes November 15

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns: The Fly and Bubble technique with small nymph patterns.

Additional information: Bring along sun protection, lots of water and mosquito repellant.

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes, Robison Creek

Directions: From Highway 395 in Bridgeport, take the Twin Lakes Road approximately twelve miles to Mono Village, where you may access the trail to Barney Lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Buckeye Creek /  Accessed north of Bridgeport

Road condition:   Paved       Paved to gravel      Gravel or dirt  road         4x4 road

Region: Bridgeport area      Drainage: A drainage creek for Bridgeport Reservoir and a tributary of Robinson Creek

Description: Buckeye is a small meadow creek with little brush and willows to thwart one’s casting.  However, lack of cover demands a stealthy approach and a low profile.  Brookies are stocked in and around the campground.  The upper creek has some beaver ponds and some Brown trout.

Species: Planted Brook trout along with some wild Brown trout and Rainbows

Closest town or supplies: Bridgeport

Contacts: Ken’s Sporting Goods (760) 932-7707; The Trout Fly (760) 934-2517; Annett’s Mono Village (760) 932-7071; Twin Lakes Resort (760) 932-7751

Nearest campground: Buckeye Campground

Fishing season: The general season opens on the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns:

Stocking information: 4,000+ annually

Nearby fishing: Bridgeport Reservoir, Robison Creek, Twin Lakes

Additional information:

Directions: From Highway 395 in Bridgeport, drive approximately seven miles on Twin Lakes Road.  Turn right on Buckeye Creek Road and continue a couple of miles to the creek.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Bridgeport Reservoir

 Elevation: 6,500

Road condition:   Paved     

Region: Behind the town of Bridgeport          Area/description: A large meadow reservoir devoid of trees and other structure, Bridgeport Reservoir can become weed infested, which hampers fishing but in turn enhances prodigious trout growth.  During early summer, the west bank attracts many trout feeding and cruising along the feeder creeks that dump fresh water and abundant insect life into the water.  Add forage fish in these shallow waters, and the west bank produces great catches of big trout until the creeks recede and the heat of summer makes the area too low in oxygen and cover for trout to linger and feed.  They move to the east side of the lake, especially around the deeper zones of the dam area.  Shore anglers mostly fish the dam area.  As the summer progresses, trolling becomes very difficult due to the weed and algae growth.  Float tubers work the pocket areas in the weeds using streamers. The largest trout are caught in the spring and late fall in the ten pound class.

Lake size: 3,000 acres at full pool    Species: Rainbows and Brown trout

Closest town or supplies: Bridgeport

Contacts: Ken’s Sporting Goods , 258 Main Street, (760) 932-7707

Facilities: Lodge, marina, grocery store, bait and tackle, coin-laundry, coin-showers, RV campground (No camping along the lake.)

Nearest campground: Twin Lakes area

Boating: Boat launch and boat rentals

Fishing season: The general season opens on the last Saturday of April and closes November 15.

Tips: Jim Reid of Ken's Sporting Goods made the following recommendations from a survey on fishing Bridgeport Reservoir.  His "First Choice Selection" included Countdown Rapalas, the original Rapalas, Thomas Buoyants, float bubble and fly combination,  inflated night crawlers, and Power Bait.  His "Second Choice Selection" included Berkley Gulp Worms and Kastmaster lures.  His "Third Choice Selection" included Dare Devil lures, Little Cleo Lures, Worden Flatfish and salmon eggs.  His "Fourth Choice Selection" rounded out with Mepps Aglia, Mister Twister, Norman Deep Tiny "N" and Rooster Tail.  Jim recommends casting Rapalas, Thomas Buoyants and Kastmaster lures from the shore near the dam and from the dam 1/2 mile south.  Trollers should work Rainbow Point to the dam on the west side.  Fly tubers have good success on the south end of the lake near the marina or across in Buckley Bay.  Ken's Sporting Goods caters to anglers, hunters and campers, as well as offering guided fly fishing trips on both public and private waters.

Stocking information: 33,000 annually, plus 25,000 fingerling Brown trout

Fishing Tips 101. com

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes, Robinson Creek, Green Creek, East Fork of Walker River

Directions: From Highway 395 in Bridgeport, take Highway 182 five miles to the reservoir.

East Fork of the Walker River

Road condition:   Paved, Highway 182 from the junction with Highway 395 to the Nevada border       

Region: Highway 182   Drainage: Bridgeport Reservoir

Description: Court cases have protected how much water draw-down will be allowed during drought cycles in order to protect both the trout and the insect life from the ruinous impact of flushing silt into this famous trophy trout stream.  The East Fork of the Walker River has made a comeback since 1988, and once again it is joining the ranks of other famous trout streams throughout the West.  Although the East Fork produces big trophy browns, they are not easily caught, as the water is swift, the rocks are slippery and the shore is lined with heavy brush.  Aggressive wading is the norm.  Pressure is most heavy at the outlet of Bridgeport Reservoir, where a large pool congregates spawning Rainbows in the spring and Brown trout in the fall.  It is here where anglers sling hardware in the hopes of catching a huge Brown trout.  From this large pool downstream for 1.5 miles, the East Walker generally holds the largest rainbows and browns.  Further downstream towards the Nevada border, the fish become fewer in number and smaller in size, but with some hefty exceptions to keep anglers pounding all the available access points along this eight mile section of river to the border.

Restrictions: Only artificial lures or flies may be used, and the hooks must be barbless.  At the Big Pool downstream for 1.5 miles special harvest regulations restrict anglers to one fish over 18-inches.  (Why would anyone kill such a beauty when they could take a photograph?)  From that point downstream to the Nevada border, the harvest limit is two fish, which must be a minimum length of 14-inches. 

Species: Brown trout and Rainbow trout

Closest town or supplies: Bridgeport

Contacts: Ken’s Sporting Goods (760) 932-7707; The Trout Fly (760) 934-2517

Nearest campground: Twin Lakes

Fishing season: Opens the last Saturday in April and closes early on October 31.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures:

Favorite fly patterns: Early summer patterns include Olive Matukas and Marabou Streamers with stout tippets and sink tip lines.  Later in the summer nymphing with strike indicators is popular using caddis nymph imitations.

Stocking information:

Nearby fishing: Bridgeport Reservoir, Green Creek, Twin Lakes

Additional information: Much of the access is across private land that is open to the public, but which may also be withdrawn when abuse takes place such as littering.

Directions: From the Junction with Highway 395 near Bridgeport, follow Highway 182 to the Bridgeport outlet. Highway 182 parallels the river eight miles to the Nevada border.

Elevation: 9,556

Road condition:   4x4 road

Region: Highway 108     Area/description: The Forest Service keeps a lock on the gate until they decide that the road is passable.  The road is rough, and it crosses a couple of small stream crossings, which can be much higher in the early summer.  The lake is basically a barren looking landscape with few trees, but the fishing is generally good.  Koenig Lake and Latopie Lake are reached from Leavitt Lake in a day hike.

Lake size: 58 acres   Species: Rainbows and Brookies in the 7 to 10-range

Closest town or supplies: Bridgeport

Nearest campground: Leavitt Meadow Campground, Deadman Campground

Fishing season: The general fishing season opens the last Saturday in April and closes November 15.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait:

Favorite fly patterns:

Stocking information:

Additional information:

Nearby fishing: West Fork of Walker River

Directions: From Bridgeport drive north seventeen miles to the junction of Highway 108.  Turn west on Highway 108 and drive 11 miles.  Look for a small sign on the left to Leavitt Lake.  Follow the rough road approximately three miles to the lake.

Map courtesy of mytopo.com.

Roosevelt Lake and Lane Lake / Day hike from Leavitt Meadow Campground

Elevation: 7,300

Trail: From the trailhead the lakes are approximately 2.5 miles

Region:  Highway 108         Area/description: Leavitt Meadow Campground

Lake size: Both lakes are approximately 8 acres    Species: Brook Trout and Cutthroats ranging 10-14-inches.

Closest town or supplies: Bridgeport

Nearest campground: Leavitt Meadow Campground

Fishing season: The general season is from the last Saturday in April to November 15.

Fishing Tips:

Favorite lures or bait: Small spinners

Favorite fly patterns: Fly and Bubble Technique  

Stocking information:

Additional information:

Nearby fishing: The West Fork of the Walker River parallels the trail affording an opportunity to fish the west fork as well as two lakes up in the canyon.

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 108, turn west on Highway 108 and drive seven miles to the Leavitt Meadow Campground.  Follow the trail upstream to the connecting lakes.

Trumbull Lake Campground          Area: South of Bridgeport

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 9,500

Description: Trumbull Lake Campground is settled in an alpine environment on Trumbull Lake. Lodgepole pine trees provide good shade.

Season Length: June-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 45

Fee: $15 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities: Virginia Lakes has a restaurant and country store

Nearby fishing: Trumbull Lake and Virginia Lake

Reservations:  Yes.  Sites 1-18, 34-43, can be reserved through www.recreation.gov or toll free at 877-444-6777 mid June through Labor Day weekend. Reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to arrival.

Additional information:  Bodie State Historic Park is approximately 20 miles away. Five toilet buildings are accessible to people with disabilities. The access road is paved, but the campground road is unpaved.  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions:  From Bridgeport travel approximately 12 miles on Highway 395, turn right at Conway Summit on Virginia Lakes Road. Go approximately six miles on Virginia Lakes Road, the campground is on right hand side of road.

Green Creek Campground          Area: South of Bridgeport / Twin Lakes

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7,500

Description: Green Creek Campground is located alongside Green Creek and is noted for excellent fishing opportunities. Aspens and pine trees provide good shade for campsites.

Season Length: May-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 11

Fee: $15 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities:

Nearby fishing: Green Creek, Robison Creek, Twin Lakes

Reservations:  Yes-Group.  Group sites 1 and 2 can be reserved through www.recreation.gov or toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. Reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to arrival.  Family sites cannot be reserved and are available on first come, first served basis. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Additional information:  The access road and the campground road are unpaved. The road is wash-boarded in places; however, four wheel drive vehicles are not needed. There are 11 family sites, two group sites, and one pull-through site, other sites not recommended for larger trailers. Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions:  From Bridgeport, drive approximately four miles south on Highway 395 to Green Creek Road (Forest Service Road #142).  Turn right and travel another 11 miles on the dirt road until road ends at the campground.

Lower Twin Campground          Area: Bridgeport / Twin Lakes

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7,000

Description: Lower Twin Campground is shaded by Jeffrey pines and Aspens. The campground is on Robinson Creek and nearby Lower Twin Lake.

Season Length: May-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 15

Fee: $17 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Flush    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities: Twin Lakes resorts; boat launch (5mph speed limit); marina

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes, Robison Creek

Reservations:  Yes.  Sites 2-15 can be reserved through www.recreation.gov or toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. Reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to arrival.

Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions: The access road to Twin Lakes is located between Lee Vining and Bridgeport on Highway 395.

Crags Campground          Area: South of Bridgeport / Twin Lakes

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7.100

Description: Crags Campground is partially shaded by Jeffrey pine trees and is near Robinson Creek and Twin Lakes.

Season Length: subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 52

Fee: $17 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 45 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Flush and Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills     

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities: Twin Lakes resorts

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes, Robison Creek

Reservations:  Yes. Sites 3, 5, 6, 8-11, 13-20, 22-24, 26-27 can be reserved through www.recreation.gov mid-May through Labor Day weekend. Or call toll-free: 877-444-6777. Reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to arrival.

Additional information:  The campground has three campsites and one group site that are accessible to people with disabilities.  Three toilet buildings are accessible.  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions:  From Highway 395 south in Bridgeport, turn left and travel approximately 11 miles on Twin Lakes Road.  Turn left on South Twin road and travel about ½ mile. Turn left at Crags Campground sign.

Paha Campground         Area: South of Bridgeport / Twin Lakes Area

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7,000

Description: Paha Campground is shaded by Jeffrey pine trees and Cottonwoods and on Robinson Creek.

Season Length: May-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 22

Fee: $17 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities: Twin Lakes resorts

Nearby fishing: Robison Creek, Twin Lakes

Reservations: Yes. Sites 1, and 3-21 can be reserved through the www.recreation.gov or toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. Reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to arrival.

Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions: From Highway 395 south of Bridgeport, turn left and travel approximately 11 miles on Twin Lakes Road. The campground is on the left hand side of road.

Robison Creek Campgrounds (North, South)     Area: South of Bridgeport / Twin Lake

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7,000

Description:

Season Length: April-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 54

Fee: $17 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Flush (South)Vault (North)   Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills          

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities: Twin Lakes resorts

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes, Robison Creek

Reservations:  Yes. Sites 2-4, 6-24, 27-30, 32-36 reservable through www.recreation.gov or toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. Reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to arrival.Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions: From Highway 395 south of Bridgeport, turn left and travel approximately 11 miles on Twin Lakes Road. The campground is on the left hand side of road.

Honeymoon Flat Campground          Area: South of Bridgeport / Twin Lakes

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7,000

Description: The Honeymoon Flat Campground is nestled on Robinson Creek amidst Aspens and Jeffrey pines. Robinson Creek has good fishing opportunities

Season Length: April-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 47

Fee: $15 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes / some   RV’s up to: 45 feet (a few)    No Hook-ups

Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills / pits            

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities: Boat launch, Twin Lakes resorts,  restaurants, shower and laundry facilities nearby.

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes, Robison Creek

Reservations:  Yes.  Sites 1-18 and 34-44 may be reserved.

Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions:  From Highway 395 south of Bridgeport, turn left and travel approximately 10 miles on Twin Lakes Road. The campground is on both sides of Twin Lakes Road.

Buckeye Campground     Area: South of Bridgeport / Twin Lakes

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7,000

Description: Buckeye Campground provides a quiet camping experience. The campground is on Buckeye Creek and is shaded by Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines.

Season Length: May-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 65

Fee: $15 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet     No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: 1 flush and 3 Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills          

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities: Twin Lakes resorts

Nearby fishing: Twin Lakes, Twin Lakes Creek, Buckeye Creek.

Reservations:  No

Additional information:  A two-mile hike from the campsite leads to Buckeye Hot Springs, and undeveloped hot spring along the trail to the Hoover Wilderness. Three toilet buildings are accessible to people with disabilities.  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions:  Follow Highway 395 south from Bridgeport; turn left and travel approximately seven miles on Twin Lakes Road. Turn right on Buckeye Road at Doc and Al’s Resort and travel about 3 miles. Turn left at the fork and travel another mile to the campground.

Obsidian Campground      Area: South of Bridgeport

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 7,800

Description: Obsidian Campground offers opportunity to get away from crowds and enjoy the shade from Aspens and pines. The campground is close to Molybdenite Creek and Little Walker River.

Season Length: April-October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 14

Fee: $10 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to:     No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers  Pack-it-out!

Toilets: Vault    Water: No      Picnic tables and fire grills / pits             

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities:

Nearby fishing: West Fork Walker River

Reservations:  No

Additional information:  The entrance road is unpaved.  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions:  From Highway 395 south in Bridgeport, drive approximately 16 miles to Little Walker Road.  Turn left on Little Walker Road (Forest Service Road # 066). Go approximately three miles on that unpaved road to campground sign.

Leavitt Meadows Campground      Area: South of Bridgeport

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation:

Description: Leavitt Meadows Campground is nestled amidst Jeffrey Pines alongside the West Walker River.

Season Length: subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 16

Fee: $15 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet     No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities:

Nearby fishing: West Walker River

Reservations:  No

Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions:  From Highway 395 south in Bridgeport, drive approximately 17 miles to Highway 108 at Sonora Junction.  Turn left on Highway 108 and go approximately six miles. The campground is on left hand side of highway.

Sonora Bridge Campground      Area: Junction with Highway 108

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 6,800

Description: The campsite is one mile west of the junction near the West Walker River.  The entrance road to the campground is unpaved.  Sonora Bridge Campground offers an opportunity to get away from crowds amidst the shade of Jeffrey pines.

Season Length: May to October, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 23

Fee: $15, plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town:

Nearby facilities:

Nearby fishing: West Walker River

Reservations:  No

Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions: From Highway 395 seventeen miles south of Bridgeport, turn west on Highway 108 at the Sonora Junction.  Drive approximately one mile to the campground entrance on the left side of the road.

Chris Flat Campground         Area: 20 miles north of Bridgeport

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 6,600

Description: The campground is located in Walker Canyon, which is a National Scenic Byway. Nearby Walker River offers fishing opportunities.

Season Length: April – November, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 15

Fee: $17 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Walker, Bridgeport

Nearby facilities:

Nearby fishing:

Reservations:  No

Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions: From Highway 395 in Bridgeport, drive approximately 20 miles. The campground is on right hand side of the highway.

Bootleg Campground:     Area: 22 miles north of Bridgeport; six  miles north of the  junction with Highway 395 and Highway 108

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Administered by: Bridgeport Ranger District (760) 873-2400

http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/districts/bridgeport.shtml

Elevation: 6,600

Description: Bootleg Campground offers solitude and a chance to get away from crowds in shaded Jeffrey pines. The campground is across the highway from West Walker River, which has good fishing opportunities.

Season Length: May-September, subject to weather conditions

Number of sites: 63

Fee: $17 plus $6 for each additional vehicle

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 35 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Flush    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills

Nearest town: Bridgeport

Nearby facilities:

Nearby fishing: West Walker River

Reservations:  No

Additional information:  Pets must be kept on a leash.   An extra $6.fee is charged for each additional vehicle. Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions.  For reservable campsites, go on line at  www.recreation.gov or phone toll free at 877-444-6777 mid May through Labor Day weekend. For more information, contact Bridgeport Ranger District.

Directions: From Bridgeport, drive approximately 22 miles north on Highway 395. The campground is on left hand side of the highway in Walker Canyon.

A

Campground Name: Aspen Campground   Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,490

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 56

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 40 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: Yes     Picnic tables and fire rings                 

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Power Plant Road.  Turn left and then drive four miles the campground.

B

Campground Name: Big Bend Campground     Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,800

Season Length: 4/26-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 17

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers 

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire rings                    

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Power Plant Road.  Turn left and then follow the sign to the campground.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Campground Name: Boulder Campground    Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,390

Season Length: 4/26-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 100

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  10   RV’s up to: 30 feet     No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: No      Picnic tables and fire rings                 

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Power Plant Road.  Turn left and then a quick right into the campground.

C

Campground Name: Cattleguard Campground   Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,325

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 16

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: No     Picnic tables and fire rings                  

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3 miles to the campground entrance on the left.

E

Campground Name: Ellery Lake Campground      Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 9,500

Season Length: 6/1-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 21

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  12   RV’s up to: 30 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire rings                    

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Grocery store nearby

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information: Just outside the park boundary, Ellery Lake is a popular campground when the park campsites are full.  The lake is stocked, and small boats and small motors are allowed, although they must be carried to the water and hand launched.

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately ten miles to the campground entrance.

J

Campground Name: Junction Campground   Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 9,600

Season Length: subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 13

Fee: $12.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: No      Picnic tables and fire grills                      

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 10 miles to Saddleback Road.  Turn right on Saddleback Road for the entrance to the campground.

L

Campground Name: Lower Lee Vining Campground   Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,300

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 54

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 40 feet     No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Portable    Water: No      Picnic tables and fire rings                 

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 2.5 miles for the campground entrance on the right.

Campground Name: Moraine Campground   Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 7,350

Season Length: 4/26-10/20 - subject to weather conditions

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 27

Fee: $14.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet    No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers 

Toilets: Portable    Water: No     Picnic tables and fire rings                  

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 3.5 miles to Poole Plant Road.  Turn left and continue less than a quarter of a mile to the campground entrance at the end of the road.

S

Campground Name: Saddlebag Campground         Area: Tioga Pass

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 10.087

Season Length: 6/1-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contacts: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 20

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 40 feet but there is a scarcity of level sites No Hook-ups Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Small store and café, fishing tackle, boat rental and boat taxi to the Twenty Lakes Basin. ( www.saddlebaglakeresort.com)

Nearby fishing: Saddlebag Creek, Ellery Lake, Gardisky Lake, Tioga Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  The campground is about a quarter of a mile from the lake with an excellent trail to the Twenty Lakes Basin.  The boat taxi, however, shaves off three miles.  Be prepared for cold weather at this elevation.  If you plan a hike, be aware that it is not uncommon for hikers living at lower elevations to experience aching lungs, headaches and nausea due to altitude sickness.  Be sure to drink plenty of purified or filtered water all day on the trail whether you are thirsty or not.  Bring along sun screen, sun glasses, a hat and an outer garment.  Additionally, I always recommend carrying in your day pack a first aid kit, a plastic rain coat and a mosquito net just in case.

Please note that the dates and prices above are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 120 and Highway 395 just outside Lee Vining, take Highway 120 approximately eleven miles to the Saddlebag Lake Road on the right.  Turn onto Saddlebag Road and drive 2.5 miles to the campground.

T

Campground Name: Tioga Lake Campground    Area: Tioga Pass / Lee Vining Area

Administered by: Inyo National Forest / Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station and Visitor Center (760) 647-3044

Elevation: 9,700

Season Length: 6/1-10/15 - subject to weather conditions

Contact: Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce (info@leevining.com; Visiting Mono Lake www.monolake.org/visiting/; Mono Lake Visitor Center (http://www.monolake.org/monomap/vc.htm

Number of sites: 13

Fee: $17.

RV sites:  Yes   RV’s up to: 30 feet   No Hook-ups:   Garbage: containers

Toilets: Vault    Water: Yes      Picnic tables and fire grills                     

Nearest town: Lee Vining

Nearby facilities: Lee Vining

Nearby fishing: Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddleback Lake

Reservations: No

Additional information:  Please note that the dates and prices below are subject to change and reflect 2007 data.  If listed, the campground opening dates are approximate due to weather conditions

Directions: From the junction of Highway 395 and Highway 120 on the outskirts of Lee Vining, turn west on Highway 120 and proceed approximately 11 miles just past Ellery Lake.

Side Trip: Tioga Pass / Highway 120 / Lee Vining Area

Eastern gateway to Yosemite National Park

Located at the junction outside Lee Vining, Highway 120 is the eastern gateway to Yosemite National Park.  Visitors will thrill at the stunning granite walls and precipitous drop-off to the canyon floor below, as the road climbs from 7,000 feet elevation to 10,000 feet elevation in twelve miles.  Winding past Ellery Lake and Tioga Lake, visitors will enter Yosemite National Park and the famed Tuolumne Meadows.  When I lived in Lee Vining during the late 1940’s as a young boy, I can remember being terrified driving up the then primitive road without guard rails.  In those days Tioga Pass road was paved, but in many spots it was a single lane.  Drivers going uphill would have to give the right-away to downhill traffic.  Backing down the road and around corners, with a sheer cliff and without a guard rail, proved too harrowing for some drivers during this time period.   My Uncle Loren Odell was the deputy sheriff in Lee Vining.  Every summer he would get a message from a traveling party that a car was stranded up on the pass. 

Stranded indeed!  The car would be operable, but the driver would just pull over to the widest part in the road and refuse to drive any further!  My uncle would round up Auggie Hess at the service station, and the two of them would head up the pass in the sheriff car.  Auggie would then drive the stranded party down the pass, and my uncle would go back on patrol.  It was not uncommon for these same hysterical motorists to head south on Highway 395, all the way to Los Angeles and then northwards on Highway 101 all the way back to Merced or Modesto, where they had started their visit to Yosemite Park.  The Tioga Pass road has been a pleasure to drive since the 1960’s, but I can tell you that my father had a sadistic sense of humor.  Driving the family car, an old Ford sedan from the 1930’s with running boards, my father would ease close to the shoulder so that his family passengers could only look straight down thousands of feet.   My old man obviously had some quirky disconnect when he was driving.  One family story tells of an episode where he was driving his mother, the first Mono County School Superintendent, to the Benton school in an old Model A Ford.  In those days the Benton Dips were really roller-coaster dips.  My father was driving too fast, and my grandmother was complaining loudly.  Suddenly, my father pulled the steering wheel off the column and handed it to her.  “Here, you drive,” he said. Before he could get the wheel re-seated over the bolt-like protrusion and have a good laugh, the automobile hit a bump and careened out into the desert running over sage brush in its bouncy course.  My grandmother was whacking him with her purse when he finally came to a stop, and my father jumped out of the Model A, threw himself down on the sand and laughed hysterically.

 I have combined both camping and fishing together for this 12-mile side trip to Yosemite.  Initially I was going to list the campgrounds in the order of their placement up the pass, but in the end I placed the fishing and camping entries in alphabetical order. Both Ellery Lake and Tioga Lake are outside the park entrance, as is Saddlebag Lake, Saddlebag Creek and Gardisky Lake, which may be hiked to from the trailhead on Saddlebag Lake Road.  Just inside the park boundaries, anglers can hike to Gaylor Lakes and Granite Lakes, along with the two headwater creeks that form the Tuolumne River in the famous Tuolumne Meadows.  Dozens of day-hike lakes may be reached by cross-country routes, but these hikes are not within the scope of this web site.

See sub-category Highway 120 Campgrounds from Lower Lee Vining Campground to Tioga Lake Campground

(Lower Lee Vining Creek Campground; Cattleguard Campground; Moraine Campground; Boulder Campground; Aspen Campground; Big Bend Campground; Ellery Lake Campground; Saddlebag Campground; Junction Campground; Tioga Lake Campground)

See sub-category Highway 120 fishing from Lee Vining Creek to Tuolumne Meadows

(Lee Vining Creek, Ellery Lake, Saddlebag Creek, Gardisky Lake, Saddlebag Lake, South Fork of Lee Vining Creek, Tioga Lake, Gaylor Lakes, Granite Lakes, Upper Tuolumne River, Dana Fork and Lyell Fork)

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