Big Bear, CA
I quiet mountain community full of back country adventure.
Big Pine Canyon Group – Inyo National Forest
Big Pine Canyon Group Campground (also known as Big Pine Canyon Recreation Area group sites) is a scenic group camping destination in Inyo National Forest, near Big Pine, California. It sits at approximately 7,500–7,700 feet elevation in the dramatic Big Pine Canyon along Big Pine Creek in the Eastern Sierra Nevada.
The area is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, including views of the Palisade Glacier and Clyde Glacier—the southernmost and among the largest glaciers in the Sierra Nevada. The two group campsites, Clyde Glacier Group Site and Palisade Glacier Group Site, are named after these glaciers and offer a peaceful, nature-immersed base for larger gatherings. The sites are located along Big Pine Creek, just above Upper Sage Flat Campground, about 9 miles up Glacier Lodge Road from Big Pine.
This location serves as an excellent trailhead for adventures into the John Muir Wilderness and provides a serene setting surrounded by Jeffrey pine, aspen, cottonwood, and sagebrush. It is seasonal (typically open late spring through fall, weather-dependent) and ideal for those seeking a rustic mountain experience with access to high-country hiking, climbing, and fishing.
Amenities
- Clyde Glacier Group Site: Accommodates up to 25 people. Features paved parking for 2 vehicles up to 35 feet and 6 vehicles up to 20 feet. Includes multiple camping areas, campfire rings, grills, and picnic tables.
- Palisade Glacier Group Site: Accommodates up to 25 people. Tent camping only, with paved parking for up to 5 vehicles (max 20 feet). Also includes campfire rings, grills, and tables.
- Shared facilities in the recreation area: Vault toilets, potable drinking water, bear-proof food lockers, and trash service.
- No hookups or electrical sites; no cell service.
- Reservations are required/recommended through Recreation.gov; fees are around $90 per night for group sites.
Activities
- Hiking and Backpacking — Excellent access to trails leading to the Big Pine Lakes, Palisade Glacier, and high alpine meadows. Popular routes include the Big Pine Creek North Fork Trail.
- Fishing — Big Pine Creek offers good trout fishing (rainbow, brown, and brook trout). Nearby lakes also provide opportunities.
- Climbing — The steep, glacier-carved canyon walls attract rock climbers.
- Horseback Riding — Equestrian trails are available in the area.
- Wildlife Viewing, Bird Watching, and Photography — Prime for observing nature in a beautiful mountain setting.
- Picnicking, Stargazing, and Nature Exploration — Mountain biking on suitable trails and relaxing by the creek are also popular.
Wildlife in the Area
The Eastern Sierra Nevada around Big Pine Canyon supports diverse wildlife typical of the region:
- Mammals: Mule deer (commonly seen), black bears (food storage required), coyotes, bobcats, marmots, and possibly mountain lions or Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep in the higher rugged terrain.
- Birds: Various songbirds, raptors (including golden eagles), and species like mountain quail or chickadees.
- Fish: Rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout (and occasionally golden trout in higher waters).
- Other: Smaller mammals like squirrels, chipmunks, and pikas in higher elevations. Be cautious of bears and follow proper food storage protocols.
The area is part of a beautiful, ecologically rich zone with potential for encounters with iconic Sierra wildlife, though many species are elusive. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect wildlife distances.
Big Pine Canyon Group sites offer a fantastic base for group adventures in one of California’s most majestic mountain landscapes. Check Recreation.gov or the Inyo National Forest website for current conditions, reservations, and seasonal closures (it is often closed in winter).
Calf Creek Recreation Area Campground
Calf Creek Recreation Area Campground is a serene desert oasis nestled along Calf Creek in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Utah. Located about 15 miles east of Escalante along Scenic Byway 12 (between Escalante and Boulder), it offers a peaceful base for exploring the stunning red rock canyons, sandstone cliffs, and riparian habitats of this remote region.
The campground sits in a narrow gorge with year-round flowing water from Calf Creek, creating a lush contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. It serves as the primary trailhead for the popular Lower Calf Creek Falls hike, making it a favorite for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking a family-friendly escape in one of Utah’s most scenic national monuments. Sites are small and intimate, tucked along the creek, providing a sense of seclusion amid towering Navajo Sandstone cliffs.
Amenities
The campground is basic but well-maintained by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), with the following key features:
- 13–14 first-come, first-served campsites (suitable for tents, trailers, and small RVs; no hookups or large RV accommodations).
- Picnic tables and fire rings/grates at each site.
- Drinking water (potable).
- Vault toilets (some sources mention flush toilets in older info).
- Day-use picnic area with tables, playground, and additional facilities.
- Trailhead access for Lower Calf Creek Falls (and proximity to Upper Calf Creek Falls).
- Volleyball courts (mentioned in some descriptions).
- Fire pits and BBQ grills.
- Open year-round (weather permitting; check conditions as access can be affected by road or site status).
Fees: Typically $15 per night per campsite (subject to change; day-use fee around $5 per vehicle). Interagency Senior/Access Passes may provide discounts. No reservations—arrive early, especially in peak season.
No showers, electric hookups, dump stations, or RV sewer connections. Pets are allowed, and campfires are generally permitted (follow current fire restrictions).
Activities
- Hiking: The standout activity is the moderate, ~6-mile round-trip interpretive trail to Lower Calf Creek Falls—a 126–130-foot waterfall cascading into a refreshing swimming hole. The trail passes prehistoric rock art (pictographs), beaver ponds/dams, lush riparian zones, and dramatic cliffs. A shorter but steeper option leads to Upper Calf Creek Falls upstream.
- Swimming and wading: Cool off in the creek pools or the waterfall’s plunge pool (water is cold and clear).
- Fishing: Opportunities for small trout (brook, brown, rainbow) in the creek, especially around beaver ponds—though catches are typically modest.
- Wildlife viewing and photography: Excellent birdwatching, mammal spotting, and scenic photography amid the canyon scenery.
- Picnicking and relaxation: Enjoy the day-use area or creekside spots.
- Other nearby adventures: Scenic drives on Highway 12, mountain biking, 4WD backroads, and exploration of other Grand Staircase-Escalante sites (e.g., Devil’s Garden).
Wildlife
The riparian corridor along Calf Creek supports a surprising diversity of life in the desert environment:
- Mammals: Mule deer, ground squirrels, coyotes, porcupines, mountain lions (less commonly seen), and beavers (dams and lodges visible along the trail).
- Birds: Hummingbirds, ravens, spotted towhees, peregrine falcons, American robins, downy woodpeckers, golden eagles, mourning doves, western bluebirds, flycatchers, common crows, and various ducks and migratory birds.
- Fish: Small trout (brook, brown, rainbow) in the creek.
- Reptiles and amphibians: Lizards, snakes, and frogs/insects around wetland areas.
- Plants: Lush riparian vegetation including cottonwoods, willows, aquatic plants, plus desert shrubs like rabbitbrush, sagebrush, four-winged saltbush, and skunkbush sumac. The area features mineral-streaked cliffs and green oases.
Tips: Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes for sandy sections of the trail. Practice Leave No Trace principles, as this is a sensitive monument area. Check BLM or Recreation.gov for current conditions, fees, closures, or fire restrictions.
Calf Creek offers a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness beauty—ideal for a memorable Utah adventure!
Upper Soda Springs Campground – Inyo National Forest
Upper Soda Springs Campground is a scenic, first-come, first-served campground in the Reds Meadow area of Inyo National Forest, near Mammoth Lakes, California. It sits at about 7,700 feet elevation along the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River in a beautiful pine-forested setting within the Eastern Sierra Nevada.
The campground offers a peaceful, semi-primitive experience with direct river access and proximity to major attractions like Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls, and the Ansel Adams Wilderness. It is accessible via a narrow, single-lane road (Minaret Road / Reds Meadow Road) that is open only in summer, typically mid-June through early/mid-September, depending on conditions. The drive from central Mammoth Lakes takes about 20-40 minutes (campers can drive in with an amenity fee; day users often use the shuttle).
It features roughly 28-29 sites suitable for tents, trailers, and small RVs (no hookups). Sites are nestled among trees with many offering pleasant river views or proximity. This is a popular spot for hikers, anglers, and those seeking a base for exploring the Reds Meadow Valley.
Amenities
- Campsites: Picnic table, fire ring/grill, and a mandatory bear-proof food locker (typically ~48″x30″x36″) at each site.
- Water: Potable drinking water available.
- Restrooms: Vault toilets.
- Other: Bear-proof trash receptacles. Additional amenities like showers and a general store/restaurant are available nearby in the Reds Meadow Valley (e.g., at Reds Meadow Resort). Firewood may be available for purchase locally. No electric or sewer hookups; cell service is poor or nonexistent.
- Fees: Around $32 per night for a single site (plus additional vehicle fees); subject to change—check current USFS info. Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Dogs must be leashed.
- Access Note: No reservations; sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. A camp host is often present.
Important Safety Note: This is an active bear area with a history of high bear activity. Properly store all food, trash, and scented items in the provided lockers at all times. Do not leave items in vehicles overnight.
Activities
- Fishing: Excellent trout fishing (rainbow, brook, brown, and sometimes golden trout) in the San Joaquin River right by the campground, as well as nearby lakes and streams. Fly fishing is popular.
- Hiking & Backpacking: Direct access to trailheads for Devils Postpile, Rainbow Falls, the Pacific Crest Trail/John Muir Trail, Ansel Adams Wilderness, and many other trails. Day hikes and longer backpacking trips are highlights.
- Wildlife Viewing & Photography: Abundant opportunities in meadows, along the river, and in the forest.
- Other: Picnicking, horseback riding (nearby pack station), stargazing (dark skies), birdwatching, and relaxing by the
- river. Nearby shuttle access to more attractions in the valley.
Wildlife in the Area
The Reds Meadow Valley and surrounding Inyo National Forest/Sierra Nevada are rich in wildlife. Common sightings include:
- Mammals: Black bears (frequent and bold—hence the bear lockers), mule deer (often seen grazing in meadows like Soda Springs Meadow, especially at dawn/dusk), coyotes (heard howling at night), and pine martens (weasel family, agile climbers sometimes spotted near the Postpile). Less common: bobcats or mountain lions.
- Birds: A wide variety, including water dippers along the river, cliff swallows, great horned owls, and many songbirds and raptors attracted to the meadows and forests.
- Fish: Trout species in the river and lakes, supporting angling.
- Other: Small rodents, squirrels, and seasonal pollinators/insects in blooming meadows.
Always practice wildlife safety: Maintain distance, never feed animals, and secure your camp to avoid attracting bears or other critters.
Upper Soda Springs offers a classic high-country camping experience with stunning scenery, river sounds, and easy access to iconic Sierra destinations. It’s ideal for nature lovers but best suited for those comfortable with basic facilities and bear-country protocols. For the latest conditions, fees, and road status, check the Inyo National Forest website or contact the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center. Enjoy responsibly!
Minaret Falls Campground – Inyo National Forest
Minaret Falls Campground is a scenic, rustic campground in the Reds Meadow Valley of Inyo National Forest, near Mammoth Lakes, California. It sits at approximately 7,600–7,700 feet elevation along the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River, offering shaded sites under lodgepole pines with many overlooking the river and nearby waterfalls.
The campground is popular with fishermen, hikers, backpackers, and those seeking a peaceful high-country experience close to natural wonders like Devils Postpile National Monument and Rainbow Falls. It features 27 first-come, first-served sites (no reservations) and is typically open seasonally in summer (roughly June through September, depending on snow conditions). Access involves a narrow, single-lane road with steep sections after the Minaret Vista entrance station (an amenity/entrance fee applies for driving in). It suits tent camping and smaller trailers/RVs best, providing a more primitive feel without hookups.
Amenities
- Campsites: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring/grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (typically 48″ x 30″ x 36″). Some sites offer riverfront views and good privacy thanks to spacing and vegetation.
- Restrooms: Vault toilets.
- Water: Potable water available.
- Other: Trash collection. Nearby Reds Meadow Pack Station and Resort offers a general store, limited groceries, camping supplies, horseback riding, and other services. Mammoth Lakes (about 17–20 miles away, roughly 30 minutes) provides more extensive amenities.
- Fees: Around $23–$32 per night for a single site, plus additional vehicle fees (around $10) and any entrance/amenity fees for Reds Meadow Valley.
- Rules/Notes: Active bear area—food and scented items must be stored in lockers (vehicles are not safe). Dogs must be leashed. Quiet hours 10 p.m.–6 a.m. Cell service is limited or unavailable.
Activities
- Hiking and Backpacking: Direct access to trails, including the short Minaret Falls Trail, routes to Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls (moderate ~5-mile round-trip hike with rainbow mist views midday), Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Ansel Adams Wilderness, and various alpine lakes (e.g., Minaret Lake, Beck Lake). Multi-day backpacking opportunities abound.
- Fishing: Excellent along the Middle Fork San Joaquin River (a Wild Trout River) and nearby streams/lakes.
- Wildlife Viewing and Nature Appreciation: Stargazing (dark skies at elevation), photography, picnicking, and relaxing by the river or falls.
- Horseback Riding: Available via the nearby pack station.
- Other: Day trips to Devils Postpile’s famous basalt columns, swimming (in suitable areas), and exploring the broader Reds Meadow area. The location is ideal for those combining camping with monument visits.
Wildlife in the Area
The Sierra Nevada high country around Reds Meadow and Devils Postpile supports diverse wildlife typical of the region. Common sightings include:
- Mammals: Black bears (very active here—proper food storage is critical), mule deer, coyotes, pine martens, and possibly mountain lions (less commonly seen). Smaller mammals like Belding’s ground squirrels and pikas are also present.
- Birds: Over 100–115 species, including Steller’s jays, various songbirds, and raptors. The varied habitats (forests, meadows, river) support rich birdlife.
- Other: Fish in the river and streams; amphibians and insects (mosquitoes can be abundant near river willows in early summer—bring repellent).
Always practice wildlife safety: Maintain distance, never feed animals, and store food properly to avoid conflicts, especially with bears.
This campground delivers a classic, immersive Sierra experience with stunning scenery, convenient trail access, and a sense of remoteness while remaining relatively close to Mammoth Lakes. It’s first-come, first-served and fills quickly on summer weekends, so arrive early. For the latest conditions, check the Inyo National Forest or Recreation.gov websites.
Reds Meadow
Reds Meadow (also known as Reds Meadow Valley or Red’s Meadow) is a stunning high-country destination in Inyo National Forest, located on the western side of Mammoth Mountain near Mammoth Lakes, California. Situated at approximately 7,500–7,700 feet elevation in the San Joaquin River Valley, it offers a mix of dramatic geological features, lush meadows, towering pine forests, crystal-clear streams, and access to world-class wilderness.
It is best known as the gateway to Devils Postpile National Monument (with its iconic 60-foot columnar basalt formations) and the 101-foot Rainbow Falls, along with trails into the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and John Muir Trail (JMT). The area provides a peaceful, immersive Sierra Nevada experience with opportunities for day trips or extended stays, about 30–45 minutes from central Mammoth Lakes via a scenic (and sometimes winding) road.
Access is primarily via the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile Shuttle bus during peak summer months (typically late June to mid-September), as private vehicle restrictions often apply to reduce congestion and protect the area. Overnight campers, resort guests, and certain exceptions can drive in (an amenity fee usually applies). Note that road conditions and construction projects may affect access—check current updates before visiting.
Stillwater, Nevada – Churchill County Ghost Town
Stillwater, Nevada, is a ghost town in Churchill County with a rich history tied to the early settlement of the American West. Once a bustling stage station and county seat, it played a significant role in Nevada’s development before declining into obscurity.
Early History (1862–1868)
The area that became Stillwater was originally home to the Northern Paiute, who thrived in the marshy environment of the Carson Sink, relying on its resources for fish, waterfowl, and vegetation. In July 1862, the Central Overland California and Pikes Peak Express Company established a stage station named after the Stillwater Slough—a deep, sluggish waterway. This station served as a vital stop for travelers and mail routes, including the Pony Express. J.C. Scott became the first non-native settler in autumn 1862, followed by others in spring 1863, drawn by the fertile valley and agricultural potential. These early settlers built irrigation ditches and fences, and by 1865, a post office opened, marking Stillwater’s formal establishment as a community.
Growth as County Seat (1868–1904)
In December 1868, Stillwater was designated the county seat of Churchill County, a role it held until 1904. This period marked its peak, with a population reaching about 150 by 1868. The town developed significant infrastructure, including a wooden courthouse (completed in 1869 and replaced in 1881), the Sanford Hotel (built in 1870), and a grammar school (1872). Agriculture flourished, supported by one of Nevada’s earliest irrigation systems, which enabled farmers to supply produce to nearby mining camps. By 1880, Stillwater boasted a variety of businesses—stores, saloons, hotels, an ice house, restaurants, a hay yard, and a school—reflecting a vibrant, self-sustaining community at its height.
Decline and Factors (1904–Present)
Stillwater’s decline began with the Newlands Project, launched in 1903, which redirected irrigation efforts to the Lahontan Valley near Fallon. The Southern Pacific Railroad’s extension to Fallon in 1907 further shifted economic activity, prompting the county seat’s relocation to Fallon in 1904. By this time, Stillwater’s population had dwindled to around 30. Natural disasters compounded the town’s woes: a major flood in 1907 inundated the valley, and earthquakes in the 1930s and 1950s caused extensive damage to remaining structures. Over time, buildings like the courthouse and school were dismantled for lumber, leaving little of the town intact.
Current Status and Legacy
Today, Stillwater is a ghost town, though the surrounding area remains sparsely populated by ranches. A significant legacy of the region is the Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1949, which preserves 163,000 acres of wetlands and serves as a haven for wildlife and a point of interest for visitors. Personal stories, such as those from Nathan Bailey Jr., whose family has owned property there since 1955, highlight the area’s quiet persistence despite its faded past.
Chronological Table of Key Events
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1862 | Stage station established | Central Overland California and Pikes Peak Express Company, named after Stillwater Slough |
| 1862–1863 | Early settlers arrive | J.C. Scott first, followed by others for farmland |
| 1865 | Post office opened | Formalized town establishment |
| 1868 | Became county seat | Population about 150, courthouse built in 1869 |
| 1880 | Population peaked | Various businesses, irrigation system developed |
| 1903–1904 | County seat moved to Fallon | Due to Newlands Project and railroad growth in Fallon |
| 1907 | Major flood | Inundated town and valley |
| 1930s, 1950s | Earthquakes | Caused extensive damage to remaining structures |
| 1949 | Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge established | Preserves 163,000 acres of wetlands |
Conclusion
Stillwater’s history encapsulates the rise and fall of many Western towns, from its origins as a stage station to its prominence as a county seat and its eventual decline. While the town itself has faded, its story endures through the Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge and the ranches that dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into Nevada’s historical and environmental evolution.
Nevada State Historic Marker 216
Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged
Stillwater
Stillwater’s beginning predates Nevada’s advent to statehood by two years. Named for large pools of tranquil water nearby, the town originated as an overland stage station in 1862; was granted a post office in 1865; and became Churchill’s third county seat in 1868.
Farmers developed one of the state’s first irrigation systems to supply booming mining camps with produce. The community population peaked in 1880, and when the county seat was removed to Fallon in 1904, barely three dozen residents remained.
The National Wildlife Refuge of 22,000 acres of wetland habitat, natural breeding and feeding grounds for waterfowl, was created in 1948. The Stillwater Indian Reservation adjoins the reserve.
Although their community center has disappeared, the valley’s lush fields and abundant crops attest to the untiring efforts of Stillwater’s pioneer ranchers and their descendants who met the desert’s challenge with dedication and determination. To those who survived and to those who did not we pledge our remembrance.
STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO 216
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
DAUGHTERS OF AMERICAN COLONISTS
RENO CHAPTER
Nevada State Historic Marker Map