John Muir Trail: Camping at Thousand Island Lake

Madera County, California

5.0/5

based on 5 reviews

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Added by Kristen Bor

Thousand Island Lake is an iconic and historic JMT location. This campsite is located at mile 42 of the John Muir Trail.

This is one of the most recogizable lakes on the John Muir Trail and is known for being one of Ansel Adams' favorite places to photograph. Banner and Ritter Peaks tower over the tree covered islands and make for incredible scenery. This is a good spot to spend the day eating lunch and swimming out to the islands so if you can, plan on arriving earlier in the day to snag a campsite and enjoy all that the lake has to offer.

Because Thousand Island Lake is so iconic and well known it can be crowded. If you can't find a suitable campsite here, head south to Ruby Lake which has great campsites, too.

Find out everything you need to know about your John Muir Trip at Bearfoot Theory.

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John Muir Trail: Camping at Thousand Island Lake Reviews

Explorer

Alex E

Explorer

John Muir Trail: Camping at Thousand Island Lake

02/22/16

This lake is one of the most picturesque campsite in the Sierras! Not only does it offer great photo opportunities, but great trout fishing as well! I plan to camp at Thousand Island Lake every summer. If you pack in a fishing pole and a water filter, you can leave food and water behind. Your back will thank you later!

5.0

Explorer

Kyle Frost

Explorer

John Muir Trail: Camping at Thousand Island Lake

08/03/15

Hands down my favorite spot to camp in the Sierras. Huge alpine lake, ridiculous mountain backdrop, great camping spots...what more could you want?

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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John Muir Trail: Camping at Thousand Island Lake

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John Muir Trail: Camping at Thousand Island Lake Reviews

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John Muir Trail: Camping at Lake Ediza Junction

Hike to Fern Lake

Gem Lake via Rush Creek

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