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If you don't mind the drive down the forest service roads then this is definitely worth the trip. Amazing views, plenty of spots to camp out, you can become one with nature. Just don't forget your alcohol or you'll be making a two hour trip to get some
Hardest part is walking from the gate to the fire tower. After it’s easy to get to the rim.
1st night there was a very rude group, playing music on a loud speaker till 2am. So inconsiderate!!!! We moved from there to a different and better spot. The ride group must have made many other angry enough to pack up and leave, because we found the best spot and enjoyed one more night, with quiet and amazing views.
Long bumpy dirt road to get there. If it's raining, don't go. Unless you like washing your car and enjoy playing in the mud.
Absolutely stunning!
But WARNING **BEES** (see end of post)
Yes, the dirt road gets increasingly gnarly as you go. The last few miles are rough. A sedan *might* make it, but you’ll risk undercarriage damage, and it will be SLOW going. My AWD Outback made it with no problems - so you don’t need high clearance if you’re careful. Don’t try it after dark without really great lights.
Many folks have mentioned that there are only a few great camping spots. This is not true. Keep driving East once you hit the first few spots, and you’ll find many more great places right on the edge with equally impressive views. On a weekend in September, very few of them were occupied.
One major caveat: there were a LOT of wasps, hornets, and bees while we were there - at least some of which seem to burrow in the soft dirt near the camps. My boyfriend was attacked and stung multiple times. We were not prepared for that, and are grateful that he didn’t have a severe reaction.
If anyone in your group is allergic (or you just don’t know) be sure to have an Epi-pen and know how to use it.
