Almanor Ranger District

PO Box 767

Chester, CA 96020

(530) 258-2141

In the southern Cascade foothills, approximately twenty miles east of Red Bluff, California, lies the Ishi Wilderness, a unique 41,000 acre, low-elevation wilderness. This is a land incised by wind and water, dotted with basaltic outcroppings, caves, and bizarre pillar lava formations. This is up and down country, a series of east-west running ridges framed by rugged river canyons.

The sunburnt south slopes carry brush (a mixture of species called chaparral). Pines and oaks live on the moister north-facing slopes, and lusher riparian forests line the river banks. Unique to this area are the pineries, dense islands of ponderosa pine growing on terraces left after rivers cut the canyons.

The Ishi is named for a Yahi Yana Indian who was the last survivor of a tribe which lived in the area for over three thousand years. Shortly after 1850, the white settlers killed all but a handful of the Yahi. Ishi (the Yahi word for man) and a few others that escaped, hid for decades in this harsh wild country. Today, only what the Yahi left in the earth behind them remains to tell their story. When in the Wilderness, please respect that record. Remember that all archaeological and historical sites and artifacts are protected by federal law and should not be disturbed.

The Tehama deer herd, the largest migratory herd in California, winters in the area. Other wildlife include wild hog, mountain lion, black bear, coyote, bobcat and rabbit. Most of the Ishi Wilderness is also a State Game Refuge where hunting is not permitted.

Deer and Mill Creeks are home to many types of fish. However, special fishing regulations are in effect for these streams. Please check the State of California's Fishing Regulations before fishing. A valid California fishing license is required.

Rock cliffs provide nesting sites for a variety of raptors including hawks, eagles, falcons, and owls. Other common sightings include wild turkey, quail, morning doves, canyon wrens, band-tailed pigeons, and myriad songbirds.

Planning & Packing:

Things you might want to take along include waterproof matches, extra food, extra clothing, first aid kit, flashlight, space blanket (blanket made of light, heat reflective material), pocket knife, sunburn protection, insect repellent, toilet tissue, candle, compass and maps.

Water:

Be prepared for bad weather. Even though Ishi's climate is mild with little snow, there are a few winter days when the temperature drops below freezing. Hypothermia can be a concern in cold rains. Summers are blazing hot (often over 100 degrees) and inhospitable. Be sure to carry plenty of water. Check our Current Conditions page for forecasted weather.

Maps are the "street signs" of the wilderness. A topographical map is an essential backcountry "orienteering tool." The elevation lines tell the story of the land and can give you a mental picture of the area. If you become lost or disoriented, the best way to familiarize yourself with the lay of the land is to climb to the nearest ridge. Start by orienting your map to the north, by compass, and pinpointing your exact location. Identifying creek drainage's and their corresponding ridges will also help to keep your bearings.

Safety:

Be aware! The low elevation and high temperatures of the wilderness make it the perfect environment for rattlesnakes, ticks and poison oak. Rattlesnakes are common during the late spring and summer months, and when temperatures soar, the snakes head toward the drainage's. Keep a watchful eye while hiking. Ticks are most active from April through October. Use insect repellentsspecifically labeled effective against ticks, check pets and brush off your clothing frequently. Ticks usually crawl around for several hours before "biting". Poison Oak is quite common in lower elevation woodlands and is most abundant in the spring. The best prevention is to avoid touching the plant and wearing a preventive lotion such as Tecnu®.

Campstove:

Wood can be scarce in the Ishi, so camp stoves are recommended.

Water Filter:

The crystal waters can be deceiving. They look clear, cold, and inviting but should never be taken for safe drinking water. Giardia is the hidden hazard. The best way to protect yourself from the microscopic organism is to carry a water filter with you. Boiling for three to five minutes will also destroy Giardia and other water organisms.

Shovel:

Carry a small shovel for burying human waste, no deeper than six to eight inches. Here, nature provides a biological "disposal layer" where organic material decomposes rapidly. A shovel is also required if you plan to have campfire.

Leave no trace:

Lassen National Forest recommends the use of "NO TRACE" camping techniques. "NO TRACE" camping is an attitude that leads to enjoyment of the wilderness without changing or damaging it. Remember, "in the wilderness, you are the visitor."

The Campsite:

As you search for a comfortable site, look for one that won't be damaged. Fragile areas such as lakeshores and damp meadows should be avoided. In order to perpetuate a high quality wilderness, PLEASE camp at least 100 feet away from water and trails.

Campfires:

Wood can be scarce in the Ishi, so camp stoves are recommended. If you do use a campfire in a previously unused site, you can minimize the impact by not building a rock ring and by using a small pit dug in sandy soil. Carefully check the ashes by feeling them with your hands to be sure the fire is completely out. Bury the ashes and replace the soil, plants and rocks that you removed from the hole.

Fire patrols cannot fully prevent human-caused fires without the help of Forest visitors, please be careful with the use of fire. Campfire permits are required for campfires, cookstoves and lanterns that require fuel. Please check for campfire restrictions that may ban the use of campfires during very hot, dry conditions.

Cleaning up/Sanitation:

There's one general rule to remember: IF YOU CAN PACK IT IN FULL, YOU CAN PACK IT OUT EMPTY. Anything left behind creates an eyesore and a hazard to the local wildlife. Materials made of aluminum, plastic or glass will not break down in the soil and animals will dig them up, so please don't bury them.

Wilderness travel means some special sanitation considerations. Carry a small shovel for burying human waste, no deeper than six to eight inches. Here, nature provides a biological "disposal layer" where organic material decomposes rapidly. Take care of sanitation needs at least 150 feet from open water. Nature will take care of the rest.

Horses and Pack Stock:

Pack and saddle stock should be picketed at least 100 feet away from water, trails, campsites and meadows. Only tether horses to trees for short periods as hooves can cause damage to tree roots and plants.

On the Trail:

With the increase in popularity of back country travel, it is more important than ever for everyone to follow the rules of common courtesy and good trail manners. To protect plants and prevent soil erosion, stay on the trail in single file. If you come across a fallen tree or other obstacle please notify the Ranger Station as soon as possible. Do not cut blazes on trees, it leaves permanent scars. Respect the solitude of others by keeping noise to a minimum.

With your help, our children's children will have the opportunity to know this wild country as Ishi and the Yahi Yana did.

Wilderness makes up 8% of the Lassen National Forest's 1.2 million acres. But Wilderness management is only part of the Forest's multiple use story. The Forest helps meet timber and range needs, is a major supplier of recreation in Northeastern California and actively protects and enhances wildlife habitat, watershed, and cultural resources.

Located in a scenic mountain setting near the town of Chester. At 75 square miles Lake Almanor is one of the largest man-made lakes in California. It offers fishing, boating, water-skiing, swimming, camping and picknicking. Family and group campgrounds, boat launch facilities and private marinas are available. For more information, contact Almanor Ranger District Office at (530) 258-2141.

Lake Almanor was created in 1914 as a hydroelectric facility by the Great Western Power Company. The name "Almanor" originated by combining the names of three sisters, Alice, Martha and Elinore, daughters of Guy C. Earl, Vice President.

The Great Western Power Company later became part of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) who, along with the Forest Service, developed Lake Almanor into a beautiful recreation area. The lake rests at an elevation of 4,500 feet, is thirteen miles long and six miles wide, and is approximately 90 feet deep at its deepest point (when the lake is full). The present dam was constructed in 1926-1927, stores 1,308,000 acre feet of water andcovers over 28,000 acres of land.

Lake Almanor Area Campgrounds & Picnic Areas - The area offers 24 developed campgrounds, and 4 picnic areas in various locations.

McCarthy Point Lookout - A Room with a View - For Rent

Since McCarthy Point is inactive, we are offering the lookout on a rental basis for personal recreation use. The lookout is a two room cabin with a kitchen and bedroom. The "bedroom" is surrounded on three sides by windows, has overhead propane lights, two sleeping platforms (about the size of twin beds) and six old style army cots.

Lake Almanor Recreation Trail - Spectacular views of Lake Almanor, Dyer Mountain and Lassen Volcanic National Park can be found along the entire route of the nine and one-half mile Lake Almanor Recreation Trail. This multiuse trail winds through beautiful stands of stately pine, fir and incense cedar, as well as meadows, a campground, a summer home tract and several lakeshore areas that will invite you to take a swim or try your luck at fishing. The trail is ten feet wide and has a paved surface.

Opportunities abound for summer fun at Lake Almanor. Several good spots for shore fishing can be found along the trail and nearby resorts have boats for rent if you would like to try deeper waters. Some of the best wildlife viewing in the Lake Almanor basin can be found here. Osprey and Bald Eagles are frequently seen from the west shore.

Winter brings a beautiful white mantle of snow to the Lake Almanor basin. The trail is an ideal location for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Almanor All Access Trail - Nine miles of Lake Almanor Views...A community volunteer effort!

Heart Lake National Recreation Trail - Stands of aspen and dogwood lend beautiful contrast to a pine and fir forest. The trail, which follows Martin Creek, offers picturesque views of Lassen Peak and Brokeoff Mountain. The trail runs 3.5 miles from the Martin Creek trailhead to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Spencer Meadows National Recreation Trail - This trail leads hikers through aspen groves, meadow areas, towering incense cedar, and past bubbling springs. The trail runs from highway 36/89 to Lassen Volcanic National Park, where it connects with the park's trail system. The trail is twelve miles in length.

The Ishi Wilderness is located in the southern Cascade foothills, approximately twenty miles east of Red Bluff, California. This area is a unique 41,000 acre, low-elevation wilderness.

The land incised by wind and water, dotted with basaltic outcroppings, caves, and bizarre pillar lava formations. Landscape is up and down country with a series of east-west running ridges framed by rugged river canyons. The sunburnt south slopes carry brush (a mixture of species called chaparral). Pines and oaks live on the moister north-facing slopes, and lusher riparian forests line the river banks. Unique to this area are the pineries, dense islands of ponderosa pine growing on terraces left after rivers cut the canyons.

The Caribou Wilderness is a gentle, rolling, forested plateau with many forest fringed lakes. Reminders of volcanic and glacial origin can be seen throughout these wildlands. Crater peaks, cinder cones and numerous large and small depressions have become beautiful lakes and are scattered throughout this plateau region. Caribou Peaks, Black Cinder Rock, and Red Cinder are points of interest.

The average elevation is 6,900 feet. The highest point, Red Cinder, is 8,370 feet. From here there are majestic views of the lofty mountains that surround this primitive wilderness. Located on the eastern slopes of what was once Mount Tehama, this area is surrounded by the volcanic peaks of Swain Mountain, Bogard Buttes, Prospect Peak, Ash Butte, Red Cinder Cone and Mount Harkness.

Winter Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing - On the Lassen, we offer miles of established and marked trails in the Colby Creek and McGowan Lake areas. A real favorite for Nordic buffs is the historic Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail.

On the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail winter brings a beautiful white mantle of snow to the Lake Almanor basin. The trail is an ideal location for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Morgan Summit Snowmobile Area is located four miles east of Mineral on Highway 36 and has 77 miles of designated trails, a large parking area, restrooms, and a warming hut.

Swain Mountain Snowmobile Area is located just off of Lassen County Road A-21 approximately nine miles north of Westwood and can also be accessed from the Forest's 10 Road just east of Chester. Swain Mountain has 60 miles of designated trails, which include three loop trails.

Jonesville Snowmobile Area is about two miles east of the Cherry Hill Campground on the Butte Meadows Rd. (Humboldt Rd.), which is accessed via Highway 32. Jonesville offers 60 miles of designated trails, and three loop trails.

Lake Almanor Recreation Trail

Accessing the Trailheads - The northern most access to the trail can be found just off Highway 89 on a small dirt road opposite the Humbug/Humboldt Road, the Almanor Boat Ramp parking area located near the Almanor North campground, and four other parking areas that have been established between the community of Prattville and Highway 89. View Map

Summer Fun - Opportunities abound for summer fun at Lake Almanor. Several good spots for shore fishing can be found along the trail and nearby resorts have boats for rent if you would like to try deeper waters.

Many of the beaches and coves are excellent swimming areas for young children (lifeguards are not provided).

Some of the best wildlife viewing in the Lake Almanor basin can be found here. Osprey and Bald Eagles are frequently seen from the west shore. Often Eagles "rob" Osprey or other wildlife oftheir meals. A favorite hunting method is from a perch tree, with the eagle flying out to capture the prey when sighted. Osprey hunt from the air, frequently hovering for several moments before plunging into the lake for a fish that may be several feet below the surface. Lake Almanor and the surrounding area is also the summer range of the Tehama deer herd, the largest migratory deer herd in California. Several species of waterfowl stop hereduring their annual migrations north and south. Chipmunks and squirrels of the area may be very friendly and beg for food. Please resist the temptation to feed any of the wildlife as it is not good for them and they may carry the parasites that can make humans ill.

Winter Fun - Winter brings a beautiful white mantle of snow to the Lake Almanor basin. The trail is an ideal location for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Fishing is allowed year round but access is limited unless you have snowshoes or skis (both are available locally for rent).

Safety and Trail manners

Restrictions

The Lake Almanor Recreation Trail is closed to all motorized traffic and saddle or pack stock.

Signs of Mountain Lions have been found in the area, the following tips are provided by the California Department of Fish and Game;

• Do not hike alone
• Keep children close to you
• Do not approach a lion
• Do not run from a lion
• Do not crouch down or bend over
• Do all you can to appear larger
• Fight back if attacked

For more specific information on Mountain Lions contact any California Department of Fish and Game office and request their brochure "Living with California Mountain Lions" (also available at the Almanor Ranger District Office in Chester).

Almanor Ranger District

(530) 258-2141

Reservations can be made after March 1st by calling the Almanor Ranger District at 530-258-2141. Be sure to review the safety tips before your trip!

McCarthy Point Lookout was constructed in 1936 by the Conservation Corps and was used as an observation point for detecting fires from 1937 to the mid 1960s. With the advent of World War II, lookout personnel were trained to spot aircraft in addition to watching for fires. This war time occupation was part of the Aircraft Warning Service (AWS), which organized aircraft spotters all along the West coast. This was a regular lookout function until the end of the war.

McCarthy Point differs from most lookout towers because it is a "cab" perched atop a natural rock outcropping instead of a man made tower. On active lookouts one person is employed from late June to late September. Searching for fires is an all day and sometimes an all night, seven day a week job. Because of the improved technology available in fire prevention and detection McCarthy Point is no longer needed as an active lookout.

Due to the remote location, several years of sporadic use and vandalism, McCarthy became run down. In 1994 the Forest Service hosted a passport In Time (PIT) project to refurbish McCarthy Point. For three years the Forest Service and the PIT volunteers worked diligently to return it (as closely as possible) to its original condition. The Forest Service is always looking for historical information on places like McCarthy Point. If you know of anyone who has information or old photographs, please contact the Almanor Ranger District.

McCarthy Point is approximately 3,600 feet above sea level and is located in a very remote area of the Lassen National Forest. It sits on the southern edge of the Mill Creek Rim facing north and overlooking the scenic Mill Creek Canyon and into the Ishi Wilderness. The access road and the lookout itself are kept locked at all times. Directions will given upon rental.

The Ishi Wilderness is nearby and provides many miles of hiking trails and fishing streams. The wilderness is named for the last surviving member of the Yahi Yana Indian tribe. Please contact the Almanor Ranger District if you would like more information or detailed maps on this area. Keep in mind that the foothills can be very inhospitable during the hottest summer months. The closest access to the wilderness is at Black Rock Campground.

Since McCarthy Point is inactive, we are offering the lookout on a rental basis for personal recreation use. The cost is $60.00 a night for Fridays and Saturdays and $40.00 a night Sunday through Thursday with a minimum requirement of two nights and a $200.00 security deposit that will be returned after a favorable inspection of the lookout. The nightly fee is deposited in a cooperative account and is used to maintain the lookout. Reservations can be made after March 1st by calling the Almanor Ranger District at 530-258-2141.

The lookout is a two room cabin with a kitchen and bedroom. The "bedroom" is surrounded on three sides by windows, has overhead propane lights, two sleeping platforms (about the size of twin beds) and six old style army cots. The kitchen has overhead propane lights, a propane cook stove, a wood stove, double sinks with running water (hot water is not available), a large picnic style table with benches and a portable gas barbecue. The outdoor deck area has benches on two sides and is an ideal area for a family barbecue. Parking is provided at the top of a small hill near the garage. A paved trail approximately 1,000 feet long leads you from the parking area downhill to the lookout. While the trail is intended to be handicapped accessible, you should be aware that is has a long slope and one tight switchback turn. This could be difficult if you have a non-motorized wheelchair. The restroom is located at the parking area not at the lookout.

Mill Creek and the Ishi Wilderness are a five-mile drive from the lookout. These areas offer great swimming and hiking.

Safety:

Road conditions can be hazardous after summer storms. If it has been raining it would be wise to call the Ranger Station and get current road conditions. If it is necessary to cancel your reservation due to hazardous road conditions we will be happy to reschedule your stay for another time.

We recommend that you bring a cell phone with you in case of an emergency.

Be sure to follow all instructions and safety precautions for the use of propane lights, stove and barbecue posted in the lookout.

Campfires are not allowed at any time.

There are bears in the area, make sure that all food and garbage are packaged properly and kept inside the lookout. When your stay is over remember to take all trash with you.

When hiking remember to inspect your body, clothing and pets for ticks as they may carry Lyme's disease.

Do not feed, handle or disturb the nests of any squirrels, chipmunks or mice as they may carry the Hantavirus or the Plague.

Always purify drinking water when out in the woods to avoid Giardia.

The lookout is within a State Game Refuge, firearms are not allowed

Highway 89 to Greagle, California

Management Unit: Plumas National Forest

159 Lawrence Street

Quincy, CA 95971

Amenities:

• Mens / Womens Restrooms
• Boat Launch
• Tent Camping
• Site Fee Fishing
• Hunting
• Cross Country Skiing
• Swimming Interpretive Trail
• Wildlife Viewing Area
• Description:
• General Information

The Lakes Basin Recreation Area is well known for its scenic geological features of granitic ridges and glacially serrated rock outcroppings. The breathtaking scenery and surrounding crystal lakes provide the opportunity for a variety of year-round recreational activities. Camping, fishing, boating, hunting, picnicking, hiking, backpacking, swimming and nature study may be enjoyed in the summer season. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular winter activities.

Camping:

The camping season usually begins in early June and ends in mid-October, depending on the weather. The Lakes Basin Campground consists of 23 family units including four accessable units. One group campground is available and can accommodate up to 25 persons. The campground provides tables, grills, fire rings, drinking water and vault toilets. Fees are required and the maximum stay is 14 days.

Gold, Goose, and Haven Lakes

Many primitive type camping areas are available at these lakes with no camping fee charged. At Gold Lake, a paved boat launching ramp is located on the southeast shore with a developed picnic site nearby. A vault toilet is available. A gravel surfaced launching ramp is located on the northeast shore. There is a vault toilet here accommodating both summer and winter visitors. Wind surfing is a popular summer activity.

Hiking:

A network of signed and maintained trails branch from several trailheads. They offer various levels of difficulty, from the leisurely stroll to the adventurous challenge. The trails encompass many of the beautiful and serene lakes, then open to storm-battered tree stands and wildflower meadows. A stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail is easily reached from this trail system. Equestrians can enjoy many miles of horseback riding on these trails.

Hunting and fishing are permitted in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. Both are regulated by the California Department of Fish and Game. Mule deer and black bear are among the game animals can be taken during the hunting season. Rainbow and Eastern Brook Trout are present in many of the lakes with good to excellent fishing in the deeper lakes.

How to Get There:

Highway 89 to Greagle then Gold Lake Highway

Tips:

Camping reservations are made through National Recreation Reservation Service (877) 444-6777

Fee(s) Charged: Yes

Fee for Camping

Other Important Information:

Points of Interest Mills Peak Lookout A three mile drive northeast of Gold Lake to the Mills Peak fire lookout presents a panaromic view of Mohawk Valley.

Red FIr Nature Trail Stop along the road one mile south of Mills Peak Lookout and take a short walk along this trail where interpretive signs lead you through the life cycle of the beautiful and stately red fir forest.

Fraizier Falls The parking and picnic area is located two miles northeast of Gold Lake on the Old Gold Lake Road. A leisurely half-mile walk from there takes you to the majestic 176 foot vertical drop of the falls. These are best when seen in spring or early summer.

Bird Watching Lakes Basin supports many fascinating bird species. Birders will enjoy sighting such varieties as Golden-crowned Kinglet, Pine Grosbeak, Red-breasted Nuthatch. Goshawks and possibly the magnificent Osprey.

(1-877-444-6777)

Camping:

A private concessionaire manages family campgrounds around the lake. There are approximately 194 family camping units and 4 group units. Campsites may be reserved through Reserve USA (1-877-444-6777)

Each Campground has piped water. Trailer sites are available. Trailers of up to 40 feet can be accommodated in some of the camping units. No hookups are provided. Facilities are usually open from Memorial Day to October.

Fishing:

Hunting and fishing are regulated by the California Department of Fish and Game. Antelope Lake supports rainbow, German brown, and kokanee salmon. Antelope Lake is stocked with rainbow annually.

Off-Road Vehicles:

The use of off-road vehicles is restricted within the Antelope Recreation Area.

Other Activities:

Antelope Lake Recreation Area provides opportunities for many more recreation experiences for visitors. Boat launch ramps provide access to the water for fishing, water-skiing, sailing, or simply touring on boats. Visitors may also enjoy watching wildlife or campfire programs.

Supplies:

Supplies can be purchased at the Antelope Store by Boulder Creek Campground or in the towns of Susanville or Taylorsville.

Hiking:

Hiking and backpacking are enjoyed by many visitors in this area.

Drinking Water:

Only water from developed recreation sites is maintained for safe drinking. Open water sources are easily contaminated by human or animal waste. Water from springs, lakes, and streams should be properly treated before drinking. One method is to boil the water for five minutes or use an approved filtration system.

Plumas National Forest

Mt. Hough Ranger District

California Wilderness Act of 1984

The Bucks Lake Wilderness was established by the California WildernessAct of 1984. The wilderness encompasses 21,000 acres, and is located near the northern end of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Topography

Elevations in the Bucks Lake Wilderness range from 2,000ft. in the Feather River Canyon to 7,017ft. at Spanish Peak. The top of the escarpment which the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT ) crosses unfolds a spectacular view of the forest to the east and north. An impressive view of Mt. Lassen is visible on clear days. The Bucks Lake Wilderness has a broad diversity of topography and vegetation. Ground cover varies from brush fields to conifer stands, oaks and pure red fir stands. Several small lakes are scattered across the eastern portion of the Wilderness. Along the western slope are small meadows and quaking bogs hidden among the dense stands of red fir.

Trails

There are 131 miles of trails on the Mt. Hough Ranger District. Two-thirds are within the Bucks Lake Wilderness area.

• Mill Creek - Trailhead is located approximately ½ mile west of Whitehorse Campground off the Bucks Lake Road.
• Gold Lake - Trailhead is located at the Silver Lake Campground.
• Granite Gap - Trailhead junction is marked by a sign on Gold Lake Trail.
• Right Hand Branch of Mill Creek - Trailhead is located at the Mill Creek Campground on the NE shore of Bucks Creek.
• Three Lakes Trail - Trailhead is located at Lower Three Lakes.
• Three Lakes PCT Tie - This trail utilizes the Three Lakes Tie