Big Bear, CA
I quiet mountain community full of back country adventure.
Trumbull Lake Campground
Trumbull Lake Campground, nestled in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near Bridgeport, California, is a serene high-altitude camping destination at 9,980 feet elevation. Situated on the shores of the picturesque 100-acre Trumbull Lake, this campground is surrounded by towering peaks, glacier-carved cirques, and a dense lodgepole pine forest, offering a tranquil escape in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Ideal for nature lovers, it provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, with easy access to the nearby Virginia Lakes and the Hoover Wilderness.
Campsite Details
The campground features 45 campsites, including 33 single-family sites, a few double sites, and one triple site, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs up to 82 feet, though one site is designated exclusively for RVs. Most sites offer ample shade from lodgepole pines, and several near the lake provide partial lake views. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and bear-proof food storage locker due to frequent black bear activity. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water, and garbage/recycling services, with firewood available for purchase from the campground host, often praised for their friendliness and dedication, particularly a host named Kimo. Roads and parking spurs are dirt, and cell service is unreliable, with some reports of one to two bars (AT&T) or none at all.
Recreation and Activities
Trumbull Lake is renowned for fishing, with rainbow, brown, and brook trout attracting anglers using flies, bait, or lures. Canoeing and kayaking are popular on the lake, though gas-powered boats are prohibited. Nearby Virginia Lakes, within walking distance, offer additional fishing and canoeing opportunities. The Virginia Lakes Trail, accessible from the campground, provides hiking and horseback riding routes into the Hoover Wilderness and eastern Yosemite National Park, with destinations like Blue Lake, Cooney Lake, and Summit Lake at 11,100 feet elevation. Other activities include wildlife viewing (deer, birds, and small mammals), mountain biking, and day trips to attractions like Bodie State Historic Park, Mono Lake, and Travertine Hot Springs.
Natural Setting
The campground is set against a stunning backdrop of glacier-carved peaks, including the 12,375-foot Dunderberg Peak, with aspens and summer wildflowers adding vibrant color to the landscape. The high-altitude environment (just under 10,000 feet) features cool evenings and warm summer days, though visitors should be prepared for potential altitude sickness. The surrounding area, part of the largest National Forest in the lower 48 states, is rich in biodiversity, with a high desert climate similar to Joshua Tree or Alabama Hills, characterized by minimal tree coverage beyond the campground’s pine forest.
Logistics and Access
Located 6 miles west of Highway 395 via Virginia Lakes Road, Trumbull Lake Campground is approximately 12 miles south of Bridgeport, reached by turning right at Conway Summit and traveling 5.9 miles, where the road transitions from asphalt to gravel. The campground is seasonal, typically open from mid-June to early October, weather permitting, with exact dates varying due to snow. Reservations for 24 sites can be made up to 6 months in advance through Recreation.gov (877-444-6777), while the remaining sites are first-come, first-served. Fees range from $23-$34 for single sites, $40-$50 for double sites, and $50-$65 for the triple site, with a $6 fee for extra vehicles. Check-in is at 2:00 PM, and check-out is at noon.
Nearby Amenities
Virginia Lakes Resort, a 5-minute walk from the campground, offers a small store, café serving breakfast and lunch, rowboat rentals, and showers ($5 for 20 minutes). This proximity provides campers with convenient access to basic supplies and meals, enhancing the camping experience. The resort’s presence is a unique feature, as it’s rare for such a remote high-altitude campground to have these amenities nearby.
Visitor Considerations
- Bear Safety: Strict food storage in bear boxes is mandatory to prevent bear encounters.
- High Altitude: At nearly 10,000 feet, acclimatization may take a few days; visitors should stay hydrated and monitor for altitude sickness.
- Fire Restrictions: Fires are permitted only in fire rings, and firewood should be purchased locally to prevent pest spread. Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, and dogs must be leashed (maximum two per site).
- Water Quality: Some campers have reported yellowish-brown potable water, so bringing a filter or extra water is advisable.
- Campsite Selection: Sites like #35 and those on the eastern perimeter are noted for spaciousness and privacy, while lakefront sites offer scenic views but are quickly reserved. Avoid sites near the dumpster or vault toilets to minimize odors.
Visitor Feedback
Campers consistently praise Trumbull Lake Campground for its serene beauty, well-maintained facilities, and the exceptional care provided by the camp host, Kimo, who is noted for keeping restrooms clean and offering local recommendations. Reviews highlight the campground’s peaceful atmosphere, even during busy periods like Labor Day, and its suitability for fishing and hiking enthusiasts. Some note the vault toilets may smell if the wind carries odors, and the high elevation can be challenging for those unaccustomed to it. The campground earns high ratings (5/5 on Yelp and Campendium) for its scenery and recreational opportunities.
Conclusion
Trumbull Lake Campground is a gem in the Eastern Sierra, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and rustic charm. Its high-altitude setting, proximity to Trumbull and Virginia Lakes, and access to wilderness trails make it an ideal base for exploring the region. Whether casting a line, paddling across the lake, or hiking to alpine vistas, campers will find Trumbull Lake Campground a memorable retreat in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.
Ellery Camp Campground
Ellery Campground, also known as Ellery Lake Campground, is a small, high-altitude campground located in the Inyo National Forest near Tioga Pass, California, just outside the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park. Situated at 9,500 feet elevation along the western shore of the picturesque 50-acre Ellery Lake, this 14-site campground offers a serene retreat surrounded by towering granite peaks, including Tioga Peak to the north and Mt. Dana to the south. Nestled in Upper Lee Vining Canyon along Lee Vining Creek, the campground provides stunning alpine scenery, making it a favorite for anglers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful escape in the Eastern Sierra. Its proximity to Yosemite’s Tioga Pass entrance (2.5 miles away) and Mono Lake makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural wonders.
Campsite Details
Ellery Campground features 14 single-family campsites, all available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. The sites are best suited for tent camping, though some can accommodate small RVs or trailers up to 30 feet, with limited parking space for second vehicles at many sites. Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (typical size: 48″ x 30″ x 36″), mandatory due to active black bear activity. Amenities include potable water and two vault toilets, which are generally clean but may be affected by heavy use during peak season. The campground’s roads and parking spurs are paved, but sites are closely spaced, offering limited privacy, especially during busy periods. The cost is $28 per night for a single site, with an additional $10 per night for extra vehicles. Holders of America the Beautiful Senior or Access Passes receive a 50% discount on single-site fees, applicable only to the site occupied by the pass holder. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, with a 14-day stay limit. Firewood is available for purchase from the camp host. Cell service is poor to nonexistent, enhancing the remote feel.
Recreation and Activities
Ellery Campground offers a wealth of outdoor activities in the Tioga Pass area:
- Fishing: Ellery Lake, located about 100 yards from the campground, is regularly stocked with 11- to 12-inch rainbow trout, with brook and brown trout also present. Fishing is excellent from the shore or small boats (non-motorized or electric motors only). Lee Vining Creek, running through the campground, is also a popular fishing spot.
- Hiking and Backpacking: Nearby trails include the Mono Pass Trail (a few miles away), leading to alpine lakes and the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and the trail to Bennettville, a historic mining site from the late 1800s, accessible from Junction Campground. The Twenty Lakes Basin and Saddlebag Lake offer additional hiking opportunities within a short drive.
- Boating: Ellery Lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with its calm, clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop. No gas-powered boats are allowed.
- Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: The area is home to black bears, mule deer, pikas, marmots, and birds like cliff swallows and great horned owls. The high elevation and minimal light pollution make Ellery Campground excellent for stargazing.
- Photography and More: The alpine scenery, with granite peaks and wildflowers (lupine and paintbrush in summer), attracts photographers. Rock climbing and biking are popular in the surrounding area, with trails accessible from the campground. Nearby attractions include Mono Lake, Mono Craters, the June Lake Loop, and Lundy Lake.
Natural Setting
At 9,500 feet, Ellery Campground is set in a dramatic alpine basin along Lee Vining Creek, just off Highway 120 (Tioga Road). The campground is surrounded by towering granite peaks, including the 13,000-foot Mt. Dana, and offers scenic views of Ellery Lake’s sparkling waters. The landscape features lodgepole pines, sagebrush, and summer wildflowers, with aspens adding color in the fall. The lake’s two ends present contrasting vistas, from serene alpine meadows to rugged granite cliffs, creating a photographer’s paradise. Summer daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 70s°F, but nights can drop to the 20s or 30s°F, with snow possible even in June. Visitors should be prepared for strong UV exposure, chilly nights, and potential altitude sickness, as acclimatization may take a day or two. Mosquitoes can be prevalent in early summer, so insect repellent is recommended.
Logistics and Access
Ellery Campground is located 9.8 miles west of Lee Vining, California, via US Highway 395 and CA Highway 120 (Tioga Road). From Lee Vining, head south on US 395 for 0.3 miles, turn right onto CA 120 west, and drive 9.8 miles to the campground on the left, just east of Tioga Pass. The campground is 2.5 miles from Yosemite’s eastern entrance, a 5-minute drive. The road is paved, but Tioga Pass is seasonal, typically open from early June to early October (tentative opening June 13, 2025), closing due to heavy snow. For updates, contact the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center at (760) 647-3044 or check Recreation.gov. The campground is closed for the winter season. Payment is by cash or check only. The nearby Mono Lake Visitor Center (1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA) is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for information.
Nearby Amenities
Lee Vining, 10 miles east, offers fuel, markets, and dining options, including the Whoa Nellie Deli at the Mobil Gas Station, Epic Cafe, Mono Cone, Bodie Mike’s, Nicely’s Restaurant, and the Mono Market. The Tioga Pass Resort, near the campground, has a seasonal café. Rock Creek Lakes Resort, about 20 miles south, provides a general store and café. Nearby campgrounds, such as Tioga Lake, Junction, Saddlebag Lake, Big Bend, and Lower Lee Vining, offer alternative options if Ellery is full.
Visitor Considerations
- Bear Safety: Black bears are active, so all food, scented items, and trash must be stored in bear-proof lockers. Failure to comply may result in fines, as rangers patrol the area. Never leave food in vehicles, as bears have been known to break into cars.
- High Altitude: At 9,500 feet, campers should stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms, especially during the first day or two.
- Fire Regulations: Campfires are permitted in fire rings, but check for seasonal fire restrictions (Stage 1 Fire Restrictions may be in effect starting June 16, 2025). Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pest spread.
- Pets: Dogs are allowed but must be leashed and attended at all times, with a limit of two per site.
- Site Selection: With only 14 sites, Ellery fills quickly during peak summer (July-August), especially on weekends. Arrive early (before noon) to secure a spot. Creek-side sites offer scenic views but less privacy due to close spacing.
- Mosquitoes: Early summer can bring heavy mosquito activity, so bring repellent and protective clothing.
- Accessibility: Vault toilets are accessible, but the uneven terrain and closely spaced sites may pose challenges for those with mobility needs.
Visitor Feedback
Campers praise Ellery Campground for its stunning alpine scenery, proximity to Yosemite, and excellent fishing opportunities. Reviews highlight the clear, cold waters of Ellery Lake and the peaceful atmosphere, with one camper noting, “This place is beautiful with very few sites. What a lucky find before heading to Yosemite.” The small size is appreciated for its intimacy, but some mention the lack of privacy due to closely spaced sites and occasional traffic noise from Highway 120. The clean vault toilets and knowledgeable camp host are frequently commended, though mosquitoes in early summer and cold nights are noted drawbacks. The campground’s high demand and first-come, first-served policy make early arrival essential.
Conclusion
Ellery Campground is a gem in the Eastern Sierra, offering a small, scenic retreat at 9,500 feet with easy access to Ellery Lake, Lee Vining Creek, and Yosemite National Park. Its 14 creekside sites, stunning alpine views, and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and paddling make it a favorite for tent campers and small RV users seeking a high-altitude adventure. Despite limited privacy and basic amenities, the campground’s breathtaking setting and proximity to Mono Lake and the John Muir Wilderness create an unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether casting a line, exploring nearby trails, or stargazing under a pristine Sierra sky, Ellery Campground delivers a memorable escape in one of California’s most spectacular regions.
The Fight of the Century
On July 4, 1910, in Reno, Nevada, the “Fight of the Century” took place between Jack Johnson, the first African American World Heavyweight Champion, and James J. Jeffries, the former undefeated heavyweight champion who came out of retirement to challenge him. This boxing match was more than a sporting event; it was a cultural and racial flashpoint in early 20th-century America, reflecting deep-seated racial tensions and societal divides. The fight, held in a specially constructed arena, drew unprecedented attention and had far-reaching consequences, including race riots across the United States.
Background
Jack Johnson, known as the “Galveston Giant,” won the heavyweight title in 1908 by defeating Tommy Burns in Sydney, Australia, becoming the first Black man to hold the prestigious title. His victory was a source of pride for African Americans but provoked outrage among many white Americans, who viewed his success as a challenge to racial hierarchies. Johnson’s flamboyant personality, confidence, and refusal to conform to societal expectations further fueled animosity, with the press often portraying him negatively.
James J. Jeffries, nicknamed “The Boilermaker,” was a white former champion who retired undefeated in 1904. Persuaded by promoter Tex Rickard and driven by societal pressure to “reclaim the title for the white race,” Jeffries came out of retirement. He publicly stated his intention was to prove “a white man is better than a Negro,” earning him the moniker “Great White Hope.” At 35 years old, Jeffries had not fought in six years and needed to lose over 100 pounds to return to fighting weight, raising questions about his physical readiness.
The fight was heavily promoted by Tex Rickard and John Gleason, who secured a purse of $101,000, with the winner initially set to receive 75% and the loser 25%, though the split was later adjusted to 60/40 at Johnson’s suggestion. Both fighters also received a $10,000 signing bonus and shares of the film rights, which promised significant revenue. The event was moved from San Francisco to Reno after California’s governor banned it due to moral and religious objections, highlighting the controversial nature of boxing at the time.
The Build-Up
The lead-up to the fight was charged with racial rhetoric. The press framed it as a clash of civilizations, with Jeffries as the representative of white supremacy and Johnson as a symbol of Black defiance. Author Jack London, who had covered Johnson’s victory over Burns, called for Jeffries to restore the title to the “white race,” while a New York Times editorial warned that a Johnson victory could embolden African Americans to seek “more than mere physical equality.” Such coverage amplified racial tensions and drew global attention, with over 500 media members reporting from Reno.
The fight attracted a crowd of over 18,000, with estimates ranging up to 22,000, who gathered in a purpose-built wooden amphitheater on East 4th Street in Reno, Washoe County, near the Southern Pacific railroad tracks. Spectators arrived by buggy, automobile, rail, and streetcar, with nine cameramen capturing the event for film distribution. The atmosphere was tense, with strict security measures prohibiting guns, alcohol, and even apples to prevent violence. Betting odds favored Jeffries at 10–7, reflecting public confidence in his victory despite his long hiatus.
Johnson, known for his charisma, soaked up the spotlight during training at Rick’s Resort, often joking with his camp, while Jeffries trained quietly at Moana Springs, avoiding media attention. Prominent figures like John L. Sullivan, who predicted Johnson’s skill would prevail unless he faltered, added to the hype. The stage was set for a historic confrontation.
The Fight
On July 4, 1910, under the scorching Nevada sun, the fight commenced before a predominantly white crowd of over 12,000, with some estimates suggesting up to 20,000 spectators. Johnson, at 32, was in peak physical condition, while Jeffries, heavier and slower, struggled to keep pace. From the opening bell, Johnson dominated with his superior speed, footwork, and defensive prowess, frustrating Jeffries’ attempts to land significant blows.
By the 12th round, Jeffries was visibly battered, his face swollen and bleeding, with Johnson’s taunts and precise punches wearing him down. Reports suggest Johnson prolonged the fight, possibly to maximize the film’s revenue potential or to punish Jeffries, though he later denied such claims. In the 15th round, Johnson knocked Jeffries down twice for the first time in his career. After a third knockdown sent Jeffries through the ropes, his corner threw in the towel to prevent a knockout, ending the fight. Johnson was declared the victor, retaining his heavyweight title.
Jeffries later admitted, “I could never have whipped Johnson at my best. I couldn’t have hit him. No, I couldn’t have reached him in a thousand years,” acknowledging Johnson’s superior skill. The San Diego Union reported Johnson’s dominance, noting he “played with” Jeffries throughout the match.
Aftermath and Impact
Johnson’s victory was a triumph for African Americans but triggered widespread outrage among white communities. Race riots erupted across the United States, with over 20 deaths, predominantly Black individuals, as white mobs attacked Black celebrants. Cities like Chicago, New York, and Atlanta saw violence, and the film of the fight was banned in many states due to fears it would incite further unrest, marking the first instance of racist film censorship in U.S. history. Congress later passed a 1912 ban on interstate transport of fight films, which remained until 1940.
The fight exposed America’s racial fault lines, with Johnson’s victory challenging notions of white supremacy. It became a cultural touchstone, inspiring poems like William Waring Cuney’s, which celebrated Johnson’s triumph, and fueling discussions on race and equality. The event’s legacy endures as a pivotal moment in sports and social history, highlighting both the power of athletic achievement and the deep-seated prejudices of the era.
Conclusion
The Johnson-Jeffries fight of 1910 was a landmark event that transcended boxing, reflecting and reshaping America’s racial dynamics. Jack Johnson’s decisive victory over James J. Jeffries not only solidified his status as a boxing legend but also challenged societal norms, sparking both celebration and violence. The fight’s significance lies in its role as a catalyst for conversations about race, equality, and the power of sport to influence cultural perceptions, making it a defining moment in American history.
Nevada State Historic Marker 220
On this site on July 4, 1910, Reno hosted ‘The Fight of the Century,” a heavyweight championship boxing match between John Arthur Jack Johnson, the African American title holder, and James J. ‘Jim’ Jeffries, a former champion seeking to regain the title he had vacated in 1904. Jeffries had refereed a previous championship bout between Marvin Hart and Jack Root at this site on July 3, 1905, but the promotion of the ex-champion as “The Great White Hope’ focused worldwide attention on his 1910 contest with the talented Johnson, known as the “Galveston Giant.” Gamblers had their money on Jeffries, but Johnson easily handled his opponent and Jeffries’ trainers called the fight in the fifteenth round to save their man from the disgrace of a knockout.
Organized by famed promoter Tex Rickard, the fight brought over 30,000 fans to Reno, some 22,000 of whom packed the arena here on the day of the fight.
STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO. 220
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
THE WASHOE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
THE NEVADA CORRAL WESTERNERS INTERNATIONAL
Nevada State Historic Marker 220 Map
Nevada State Historic Marker 220
| Name | The Fight of the Century |
| Location | Reno, Washoe County, Nevada |
| Latitude, Longitude | 39.5332, -119.7964 |
| Nevada State Historic Marker | 220 |
References
Junction Campground
Junction Campground, located in the Inyo National Forest near Tioga Pass, California, is a small, high-altitude campground at approximately 9,600 feet elevation. Situated at the junction of Highway 120 (Tioga Road) and Saddlebag Lake Road, just 2 miles east of Yosemite National Park’s Tioga Pass entrance, this 13-site campground offers a serene alpine retreat in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Nestled in a lodgepole pine forest with stunning views of surrounding granite peaks, including Mt. Dana and Tioga Peak, Junction Campground provides easy access to Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, and the recreational opportunities of the Hoover Wilderness and Yosemite’s high country. Its proximity to Lee Vining and Mono Lake makes it an ideal base for campers seeking a quiet escape with access to fishing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery.
Campsite Details
Junction Campground features 13 single-family campsites, all available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. The sites are primarily designed for tent camping, though some can accommodate small RVs or trailers up to 30 feet, with limited parking space for additional vehicles. Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (typical size: 48″ x 30″ x 36″), mandatory due to active black bear activity in the area. Amenities are limited to one vault toilet, which is generally clean but may see heavy use during peak season. There is no potable water on-site, so campers must bring their own or obtain water from nearby Ellery Lake Campground (0.3 miles away) or Tioga Lake Campground (1 mile away). The campground’s roads and parking spurs are paved but narrow, and sites are closely spaced, offering limited privacy. The cost is $20 per night for a single site, reflecting the lack of water, with an additional $10 per night for extra vehicles. Holders of America the Beautiful Senior or Access Passes receive a 50% discount on single-site fees, applicable only to the site occupied by the pass holder. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, with a 14-day stay limit. Firewood is available for purchase from nearby campgrounds or Lee Vining. Cell service is nonexistent, enhancing the remote, off-the-grid experience.
Recreation and Activities
Junction Campground offers access to a variety of outdoor activities in the Tioga Pass area:
- Fishing: Nearby Ellery Lake (0.3 miles) and Tioga Lake (1 mile) are stocked with rainbow trout, with brook and brown trout also present. Saddlebag Lake, a short drive up Saddlebag Lake Road, offers excellent fishing for golden trout, California’s state fish, from the shore or small boats (non-motorized or electric motors only). Lee Vining Creek, accessible nearby, is another fishing spot.
- Hiking and Backpacking: The campground is a gateway to trails in the Hoover Wilderness and Yosemite National Park. The Bennettville Trail, starting at the campground, is a 2-mile round-trip hike to a historic 1880s mining ghost town, offering scenic views and family-friendly exploration. The Mono Pass Trail (a few miles away) leads to alpine lakes in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, while the Twenty Lakes Basin trail near Saddlebag Lake offers stunning alpine scenery. The Gaylor Lakes Trail, just inside Yosemite, is a short drive away.
- Boating: Ellery and Tioga Lakes are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with calm, clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrops. Saddlebag Lake, the highest drive-to lake in the Sierra at 10,087 feet, is popular for non-motorized boating.
- Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: The area is home to black bears, mule deer, pikas, marmots, and birds like Clark’s nutcrackers and mountain bluebirds. The high elevation and minimal light pollution make Junction Campground excellent for stargazing.
- Photography and More: The alpine landscape, with granite peaks, wildflowers (lupine and paintbrush in summer), and fall aspens, attracts photographers. Rock climbing and mountain biking are popular in the surrounding area, with trails accessible from nearby trailheads. Nearby attractions include Mono Lake, Mono Craters, the June Lake Loop, and Lundy Lake.
Natural Setting
At 9,600 feet, Junction Campground is nestled in Upper Lee Vining Canyon, surrounded by a dense lodgepole pine forest with open views of towering granite peaks, including the 13,057-foot Mt. Dana and 11,513-foot Tioga Peak. The campground sits near Lee Vining Creek, with its clear, cold waters adding a subtle soundscape. The alpine environment features sagebrush, summer wildflowers, and scattered aspens that turn golden in fall, creating a striking contrast against the rugged granite landscape. Summer daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 70s°F, but nights can drop to the 20s or 30s°F, with snow possible even in June. Visitors should be prepared for strong UV exposure, chilly nights, and potential altitude sickness, as acclimatization may take a day or two. Mosquitoes can be prevalent in early summer, so insect repellent is recommended.
Logistics and Access
Junction Campground is located 10 miles west of Lee Vining, California, via US Highway 395 and CA Highway 120 (Tioga Road). From Lee Vining, head south on US 395 for 0.3 miles, turn right onto CA 120 west, and drive 9.5 miles to the campground, located at the junction with Saddlebag Lake Road on the right. The campground is 2 miles east of Yosemite’s Tioga Pass entrance, a 4-minute drive. The road is paved, but Tioga Pass is seasonal, typically open from early June to early October (tentative opening June 13, 2025), closing due to heavy snow. For updates, contact the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center at (760) 647-3044 or check Recreation.gov. The campground is closed for the winter season. Payment is by cash or check only. The Mono Lake Visitor Center (1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA) is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for information.
Nearby Amenities
Lee Vining, 10 miles east, offers fuel, markets, and dining options, including the Whoa Nellie Deli at the Mobil Gas Station, Epic Cafe, Mono Cone, Bodie Mike’s, Nicely’s Restaurant, and the Mono Market. The Tioga Pass Resort, 2 miles west, has a seasonal café. Ellery Lake Campground (0.3 miles) and Tioga Lake Campground (1 mile) provide potable water and additional vault toilets. Nearby campgrounds, such as Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddlebag Lake, Big Bend, and Lower Lee Vining, offer alternative options if Junction is full.
Visitor Considerations
- Bear Safety: Black bears are active, so all food, scented items, and trash must be stored in bear-proof lockers. Rangers patrol the area, and fines may be issued for non-compliance. Never leave food in vehicles, as bears have been known to break in.
- High Altitude: At 9,600 feet, campers should stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms, especially during the first day or two.
- No Potable Water: Bring sufficient water or plan to obtain it from nearby Ellery or Tioga Lake campgrounds. Water treatment is recommended for creek water.
- Fire Regulations: Campfires are permitted in fire rings, but check for seasonal fire restrictions (Stage 1 Fire Restrictions may be in effect starting June 16, 2025). Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pest spread.
- Pets: Dogs are allowed but must be leashed and attended at all times, with a limit of two per site.
- Site Selection: With only 13 sites, Junction fills quickly during peak summer (July-August), especially on weekends. Arrive early (before noon) to secure a spot. Sites near the creek offer scenic views but limited privacy due to close spacing.
- Mosquitoes: Early summer can bring heavy mosquito activity, so bring repellent and protective clothing.
- Accessibility: The vault toilet is accessible, but the uneven terrain and closely spaced sites may pose challenges for those with mobility needs.
Visitor Feedback
Campers praise Junction Campground for its stunning alpine setting, proximity to Yosemite, and access to fishing and hiking. Reviews highlight the scenic views of granite peaks and the quiet atmosphere, with one camper noting, “Junction is a perfect stopover before entering Yosemite, with easy access to lakes and trails.” The small size is appreciated for its intimacy, but some mention the lack of privacy due to closely spaced sites and the absence of potable water as drawbacks. The clean vault toilet and convenient location at the Saddlebag Lake Road junction are frequently commended, though mosquitoes in early summer and cold nights are noted challenges. The first-come, first-served policy and high demand make early arrival essential.
Conclusion
Junction Campground is a serene, high-altitude gem near Tioga Pass, offering a small, rustic retreat at 9,600 feet with easy access to Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, and Yosemite National Park. Its 13 forested sites, stunning alpine views, and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and paddling make it a favorite for tent campers and small RV users seeking an off-the-grid adventure. Despite limited amenities and privacy, the campground’s breathtaking setting and proximity to the Hoover Wilderness and Mono Lake create an unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether exploring historic trails, fishing in alpine lakes, or stargazing under a pristine Sierra sky, Junction Campground delivers a memorable escape in one of California’s most spectacular regions.
Ghost Town Living: Mining for Purpose and Chasing Dreams at the Edge of Death Valley
The siren song of Cerro Gordo, a desolate ghost town perched high above Death Valley, has seduced thousands since the 1800s, but few fell harder for it than Brent Underwood, who moved there in March of 2020, only to be immediately snowed in and trapped for weeks.
It had once been the largest silver mine in California. Over $500 million worth of ore was pulled from the miles of tunnels below the town. Butch Cassidy, Mark Twain, and other infamous characters of the American West were rumored to have stayed there. Newspapers reported a murder a week. But that was over 150 years ago.
Underwood bet his life savings—and his life—on this majestic, hardscrabble town that had broken its fair share of ambitious men and women. What followed were fires, floods, earthquakes, and perhaps strangest, fame. Ghost Town Living tells the story of a man against the elements, a forgotten historic place against the modern world, and a dream against all odds—one that has captured millions of followers around the world.
He came looking for a challenge different from the traditional 9-5 job but discovered something much more fulfilling—an undertaking that would call on all of himself and push him beyond what he knew he was capable of. In fact, to bring this abandoned town back to life, Brent had to learn a wealth of new self-sufficiency and problem-solving skills from many generous mentors.
Ghost Town Living is a thrilling read, but it’s also a call to action—to question our too-practical lives and instead seek adventure, build something original, redefine work, and embrace the unknown. It shows what it means to dedicate your life to something, to take a mighty swing at a crazy idea and, like the cardsharps who once haunted Cerro Gordo, go all in.
About the Author
Brent Underwood is the owner of Cerro Gordo, an original boomtown silver mine, established in 1865. He is also the creator of “GhostTownLiving” where he chronicles his adventures on YouTube. Brent currently lives on the mountain above Death Valley with no running water, seven cats, six goats, and at least one ghost.
Book Summary
| Title | Death Valley Gold Rush (Images of Ghost Town Living: Mining for Purpose and Chasing Dreams at the Edge of Death Valley |
| Author | Brent Underwood |
| Publisher | Harmony Publishing |
| Pages | 228 Pages |