Big Bear, CA
I quiet mountain community full of back country adventure.
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 |
Aspen Campground
Aspen Campground, located in the Inyo National Forest near Rock Creek and Tom’s Place, California, is a small, high-altitude campground at approximately 8,100 feet elevation. Nestled along Rock Creek in the scenic Rock Creek Canyon of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, this 5-site campground offers a tranquil, intimate retreat surrounded by Jeffrey pines, vibrant aspen groves, and sagebrush, with dramatic granite peaks providing a stunning backdrop. Situated just 1 mile west of Tom’s Place, Aspen Campground is one of the closest campgrounds to Highway 395 in the Rock Creek area, making it highly accessible yet still immersed in nature. Its proximity to Rock Creek Lake, the John Muir Wilderness, and recreational opportunities like fishing and hiking makes it an ideal base for campers seeking a quiet escape in the Eastern Sierra.
Campsite Details
Aspen Campground features 5 single-family campsites, all available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. The sites are best suited for tents and very small RVs or trailers (maximum length 16 feet) due to the narrow, unpaved parking spurs and limited turnaround space. 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″), essential due to active black bear activity in the area. Amenities are minimal, with no potable water or toilets provided directly at the campground; campers must rely on nearby facilities at Tom’s Place or other campgrounds like East Fork or Iris Meadow for water and restrooms. The sites are well-spaced and shaded by Jeffrey pines and aspens, with some offering creek-side views of Rock Creek’s clear, boulder-lined waters. The cost is $20 per night for a single site, reflecting the lack of amenities, 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. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, with a maximum stay of 7 days.
Recreation and Activities
Aspen Campground provides convenient access to a variety of outdoor activities in the Rock Creek area:
- Fishing: Rock Creek, flowing adjacent to the campground, is a renowned trout fishing destination, stocked with rainbow, brown, and Alpers trout. Rock Creek Lake, approximately 8 miles up the road, offers additional fishing opportunities from the shore or small boats (electric motors only, 5 MPH limit).
- Hiking and Backpacking: The Mosquito Flat Trailhead, about 9 miles up Rock Creek Road, provides access to the Little Lakes Valley in the John Muir Wilderness. This gentle trail leads to a series of glacially carved alpine lakes, such as Mack Lake, Heart Lake, and Gem Lakes, within a 2.5-mile hike, with stunning views of Bear Creek Spire, Mt. Dade, and Mt. Abbott. Other nearby trails, like the Tamarack Lakes Trail, cater to day hikers and backpackers.
- Boating: Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular at Rock Creek Lake, though the water remains cold even in summer.
- Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: The area supports diverse wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, pikas, marmots, and bird species like mountain bluebirds and Clark’s nutcrackers. The high elevation and minimal light pollution make Aspen Campground ideal for stargazing.
- Horseback Riding: Rock Creek Pack Station, near Rock Creek Lake, offers guided trail rides and fishing pack trips into the backcountry.
- Photography and More: The vibrant aspen groves (golden in fall), summer wildflowers like iris and lupine, and dramatic granite peaks attract photographers. Mountain biking and rockhounding are also popular in the surrounding terrain.
Natural Setting
At 8,100 feet, Aspen Campground is situated in Rock Creek Canyon, surrounded by a mix of Jeffrey pines, aspens, and sagebrush, creating a high-desert ambiance with forested pockets. The aspen groves, for which the campground is named, turn a brilliant gold in the fall, offering a spectacular display that rivals New England’s autumn scenery. Rock Creek flows alongside the campground, its clear, cold waters cascading over boulders, providing a soothing soundscape. The surrounding Eastern Sierra Nevada features steep granite cliffs and towering peaks, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Summer daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 80s°F, with nights dropping to the 30s or 40s°F due to the high elevation. Visitors should be prepared for strong UV exposure and potential altitude sickness, with acclimatization possibly taking a day or two.
Logistics and Access
To reach Aspen Campground, take US Highway 395 to Tom’s Place, approximately 23 miles north of Bishop or 10 miles south of Mammoth Lakes. Turn west onto Rock Creek Lake Road and drive about 1 mile; the campground is on the right, just past Tom’s Place. The road is paved, but the campground’s dirt parking areas are narrow and best suited for smaller vehicles. The campground operates seasonally, typically from late May to late September (May 23 to September 28, 2025, weather permitting), with exact dates subject to snow conditions. For updates, contact the White Mountain Ranger District at (760) 873-2500. Cell service is spotty, with some carriers reporting weak reception (1-2 bars) due to the proximity to Highway 395, but most campers experience limited or no service, enhancing the off-the-grid atmosphere.
Nearby Amenities
Tom’s Place, just 1 mile away, features a rustic lodge with a market, café, and bar, offering convenient access to supplies, meals, and potable water. Rock Creek Lakes Resort, 8 miles up the road, provides a general store, a café serving breakfast and lunch, and cabin rentals. Nearby campgrounds, such as East Fork (1.5 miles away), Iris Meadow, Big Meadow, Upper Pine Grove, Lower Pine Grove, Palisades Group, and Rock Creek Lake, offer alternative camping options with additional amenities like toilets and water if needed.
Visitor Considerations
- Bear Safety: Black bears are active, so all food, scented items, and trash must be stored in bear-proof lockers when not in use. Keeping a clean campsite is critical to avoid wildlife encounters.
- High Altitude: At 8,100 feet, campers should stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms, particularly during the first day or two.
- Limited Amenities: With no potable water or toilets on-site, campers must bring water or rely on nearby facilities at Tom’s Place or other campgrounds. Plan to pack out all trash if bins are unavailable.
- 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 is available for purchase locally to prevent the spread of invasive pests. Generators are allowed during non-quiet hours (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM) with a three-hour maximum run time and must be attended.
- Pets: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed and attended at all times, with a limit of two per site.
- Site Selection: With only 5 sites, Aspen Campground fills quickly, especially on summer weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot, particularly for creek-side sites, which offer scenic views and the sound of flowing water. Forested sites provide more shade and seclusion.
- Accessibility: The lack of on-site toilets and uneven terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility needs. Check nearby campgrounds like East Fork for accessible facilities.
Visitor Feedback
Campers praise Aspen Campground for its small size, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to Tom’s Place and Rock Creek. Reviews highlight the beauty of the aspen groves, the relaxing sound of the creek, and the campground’s accessibility, with one camper noting, “Aspen is perfect for a quick getaway with just enough seclusion but close to amenities at Tom’s Place.” The lack of on-site water and toilets is a common drawback, but campers appreciate the low cost and intimate setting. The campground’s small size and first-come, first-served policy make it competitive, so early arrival is recommended. The vibrant fall colors and fishing opportunities are frequently cited as highlights.
Conclusion
Aspen Campground is a charming, minimalist retreat in the heart of Rock Creek Canyon, offering a quiet and scenic camping experience for tent campers and small RV users. With its creek-side sites, vibrant aspen groves, and easy access to world-class fishing and hiking in the John Muir Wilderness, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking simplicity and natural beauty. Despite the lack of on-site amenities, its proximity to Tom’s Place and other campgrounds makes it convenient for short stays. Whether fishing in Rock Creek, hiking to alpine lakes, or stargazing under a pristine Sierra sky, Aspen Campground delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience in one of California’s most scenic regions.
Portuguese Joe Campground
Portuguese Joe Campground
Located just one mile west of Lone Pine, California, Portuguese Joe Campground (also known as “Portagee Joe”) is a serene, primitive campground nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Situated along a small, trout-filled creek fed by runoff from the Los Angeles Aqueduct, this Inyo County campground offers a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. The campground features 20 single-family campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 40 feet. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and grate, with some sites offering partial shade from trees, providing relief during warm summer days.
Amenities are basic but functional, including potable water, two clean vault toilets, and trash/recycling facilities. There are no showers, hook-ups, or dump stations. A modern automated pay station accepts cash and credit cards for convenience, and reservations can be made via ReserveAmerica.com, with some sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground is open year-round, weather permitting, with a fee of $14 per vehicle per night and $5 for additional vehicles.
Portuguese Joe is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to hiking, fishing for trout in the creek (season: last Saturday in April to November 15, fishing license required for ages 16+), mountain biking, horseback riding, and stargazing under the clear, dark skies of the Eastern Sierra. The sites are relatively close together, offering limited privacy, but the tranquil setting and the gentle sound of the creek create a relaxing atmosphere. Reliable cell service is available for most carriers, and the nearby town of Lone Pine, just a mile away, provides restaurants, shops, and the Museum of Western Film History. As bear country, proper food storage is essential to ensure safety.
Alabama Hills
Just a short drive from Portuguese Joe Campground, the Alabama Hills is a breathtaking landscape of dramatic rock formations, natural arches, and sweeping desert vistas, set against the towering backdrop of the Sierra Nevada, including the iconic Mt. Whitney. Located on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this area is renowned for its unique geological features, formed by millions of years of erosion, creating rounded boulders, spires, and labyrinthine pathways. The Alabama Hills is a haven for photographers, hikers, climbers, and filmmakers, famously serving as a backdrop for countless Western movies, TV shows, and modern films like Iron Man and Django Unchained.
Visitors can explore the area via numerous hiking trails, such as the Mobius Arch Loop Trail, a short, easy hike offering stunning views of the arch framing Mt. Whitney. The Alabama Hills is also a popular destination for bouldering and rock climbing, with routes suitable for all skill levels. Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the area (free, no facilities, 14-day limit), making it a great complement to a stay at Portuguese Joe Campground. The open landscape is perfect for stargazing, with minimal light pollution revealing a dazzling night sky. The Alabama Hills Scenic Area is easily accessible via Whitney Portal Road and Movie Road, with interpretive signs highlighting its film history and natural beauty.
Together, Portuguese Joe Campground and the Alabama Hills offer an unforgettable combination of rustic camping and access to one of California’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Herman Petrasch
Herman Petrasch of Phoenix, Arizona, is best known for his involvement in the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, one of the most famous treasure legends in American history. Born on June 6, 1868, in Walla Walla, Washington, Herman Petrasch moved to Arizona with his family, who were among the early settlers in the region. The Petrasch family played a significant role in the exploration and development of Arizona’s mining potential.
Early Life and Family Background
Herman Petrasch was part of a pioneering family deeply involved in the mining industry. His brother, Rhinehart Petrasch, was also a prominent figure in Arizona’s mining history. Growing up in a family dedicated to prospecting and mining, Herman gained extensive knowledge and experience in the field from an early age.
The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine
Herman Petrasch is most famously connected to the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. The mine, allegedly located in the Superstition Mountains near Phoenix, Arizona, is said to hold a vast fortune of gold. The story of the mine is shrouded in mystery and has captivated treasure hunters for over a century.
The legend originated with Jacob Waltz, a German immigrant (often referred to as the “Dutchman”) who supposedly discovered the gold mine in the late 19th century. Before his death in 1891, Waltz reportedly shared the location of the mine with a few people, including Julia Thomas, a family friend of the Petrasch family.
Involvement with the Search
After Waltz’s death, Herman Petrasch, along with his brother Rhinehart and Julia Thomas, dedicated themselves to finding the lost mine. They conducted numerous expeditions into the Superstition Mountains, guided by the clues and maps left behind by Waltz. Despite their efforts, the exact location of the mine remained elusive.
Herman’s dedication to the search for the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine exemplified the adventurous spirit and determination of the time. The Petrasch brothers’ explorations added to the mystique and allure of the legend, attracting countless other treasure hunters to the region.
Later Life and Legacy
Although Herman Petrasch never found the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, his legacy is deeply intertwined with the legend. His persistent efforts and the stories of his expeditions contributed significantly to the mythos surrounding the mine. The legend continues to be a topic of fascination and speculation, drawing treasure hunters and enthusiasts to the Superstition Mountains to this day.
Herman Petrasch passed away on April 7, 1953, in Phoenix, Arizona. His life and adventures remain an integral part of Arizona’s rich history, symbolizing the enduring allure of hidden treasure and the human quest for discovery.
Conclusion
Herman Petrasch’s involvement in the search for the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine has made him a legendary figure in the annals of American folklore. His story, marked by determination and adventure, captures the imagination of those who continue to be intrigued by the mysteries of the past and the promise of hidden treasures.
Further Reading
 The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold by Helen CorbinThe Curse of the Dutchman's Gold by Helen Corbin Helen Corbin's The Curse of the Dutchman's Gold is the first book I have read on… |
References
- Apache Junction Public Library
- Findagrave.com