East Creek Campground replaces Patterson Campground for horse camping and equestrian access to the South Warner Wilderness. Horses are no longer permitted in Patterson Campground or the Patterson Guard Station. Corrals and stock water are available at East Creek. East Creek Trail is closed due to the Blue Fire but there is easy access to Summit Trail.
From Alturas go south on US Hwy 395 approximately 18 miles to Likely, CA. Turn east on County Road 64/Jess Valley Rd and go 3.2 miles to Blue Lake Road. Turn right on Blue Lake Road/ County Rd 64 and continue approximately 7 miles to the turnoff for Blue Lake. Turn left and stay on County Road 64 (instead of a right turn to Blue Lake) and continue 8 more miles of windy road to the Patterson Campground and Guard Station. From Patterson go west .7 miles to East Creek Campground.
Wow the 5 1/2 mile hike was so worth it. I could see 4 states and the lake was so beautful, the streams , small pounds and the meadows on the trail were just a beautiful. The trail can use some repair as in some places it disappears. I had to look for it, also the bears are on the trail, carry a gun or spray.