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Submission
Leavitt Meadows Campground is nestled amidst Jeffrey Pines alongside the West Walker River. Nearby Leavitt Meadows Trailhead is the starting point for a horse or foot trail along the West Walker River into an area of lake-filled basins. Many climbers use this trail to approach Tower Peak, which offers both technical climbs and scrambles. A permit is required for overnight use of the West Walker River area. Generally open in late May to late September, weather and condition permitting.
From Coleville, CA, take US Rt. 395 south 12.8 miles to State Rt. 108 sign. Turn right at sign onto Rt.108 (access to Sonora Pass) and go 7 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
We stopped in the campground to eat our lunch on our drive home out to the coast. They charge a $6 day use fee, don't know what the charge is for overnight. The campground is beautiful next to a small river that you can splash in with some bigger pools. So worth the six bucks! We ended up spending hours lounging by the river. Notice some people fly fishing. The campground is REALLY well maintained, the cleanest out houses I've ever seen! The campground host is a really nice guy who has great pride in caring for this wonderful spot. There is no drinking water here so be ready for that if you plan on camping here. We definitely plan to come back and camp in this amazing spot.The camp sites are first come first serve altho the host mentioned there may be some sites that will be available for reservations next year. Looks like there's lots of hiking near by can't wait to try that!
Very cool campground! Clean vaulted restrooms, beautiful scenery and quiet. Camp host is very nice and helpful. Sonora Pass is a must motorcycle route! Great twists, turns, inclines and declines...the scenery is amazing!
Beautiful, peaceful hike through/across this open meadow/valley. The trail parallels the Carson River. It's easy to follow and easy in terms of difficulty. It starts at about 7,000' elevation and has gentle gains/falls. Google Maps initially took me to the pack station. If you end up there, head east (toward hwy 395) about 1/2 mile. There's a sign for Leavitt Meadows Trailhead and Campground. There is a large lot you can park in. The trail starts near the entrance of the lot. You'll cross a stream via two logs, go through the campground, then cross the Walker River on a metal bridge. There are also a few spots reserved for day use in the campground itself. Turn around at the end of the meadow or continue on as far as you want, stopping at one of several lakes along the way. It's a great hike. If you're not used to the altitude, keep in mind the sun will be more intense and you will work a little harder to cover the same distance you would at sea level. Plan accordingly.
