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Gregg Boydston

U.S. Forest Service Hotshot Living in and exploring the Eastern Sierra.

So as stated above, you definitely can't camp right next to the cool looking stuff. The Geological site is fenced off due to injuries in the past and is set up kind of like a part setting. (Bathrooms, tables, walk ways, etc.) Although you can't set up a tent in this area, Hot Creek flows a ways until it hits the Owens River. Lucky for us, it flows right through BLM land and you are able to set up camp just down a ways from the actual parking area. Close enough you can even smell the sulphur still. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out, as I only live 10 minutes from here.

As a Mammoth Lakes resident, I use these tubs quite often, and think I have spent more time picking up trash and broken glass around the tubs than actually sitting in them. There are a ton of people that visit here and if were all do our part in picking up after each other, people wont be worried about sharing the cooler Hot Spring locations. Now that my rant is over, this is a terrific place to hang out no matter the season. BBQ, soak, beverages, views, you can do it all. It's a wonderful gem here in the Eastern Sierra.

Planning on doing this next weekend. Hoping that last part of the trail is somewhat easy to find this time of year.

Many different locations to visit around the lake. Can be very windy but offered some great bird watching and photography opportunities. They do ask that you donate at the South Tufa entrance. Also, Lee Vining has a couple shops with information about the lake and its history. Free stickers!

As a weekly visitor to convict lake if not more, I just want to point out winter hiking is doable but can be icy. Often windy as well. Looking to photograph the lake? Early in the day creates a perfect reflection especially with no wind.

Just a heads up, it is usually windy here and has minimal cell service. Well worth it though.

Be sure to know your game plan before hand, as cell service is minimal.