Sierra National Forest

Directions

Take Hwy 168 east from Clovis towards Prather. Continue through Prather towards Shaver Lake. Just before you reach Shaver Lake, turn right on the Dinkey Creek Road and travel 11.7 miles east to the intersection of the Dinkey Creek Road and the McKinley Grove Road. Turn right and travel 15 miles east on the McKinley Grove Road to Wishon Lake.

At Wishon Reservoir you will find Lily Pad Campground which is operated by Pacific Gas and Electric. 15 campsites are available first come-first served, no reservations are accepted. A fee is charged for overnight camping. There are active bears in the area so please store food properly and never feed the bears. Below the dam is the Upper Kings River Group Campground which accommodates groups up to 50 people. Reservations are required. Contact PG&E at 559-442-5576.

South of the lake you will find several trailheads that provide access to the John Muir Wilderness. Wilderness permits are required for overnight stay.

Horseback riding and guided services are available nearby.

Just south of the lake you will find the Spanish OHV Route. This route is classified as More Difficult. An easy route for experienced drivers but a challenge for beginning drivers. The route encompasses loose dirt, some granite, a few rocks, and a little uphill. The route is 3.5 miles long and takes 4 hours to drive. This route is not recommended for van type 4WD vehicles or full size pickups, due to some tight maneuvering near the wilderness boundary.

Is the water safe to drink?

Safe Food Storage

Campgrounds

Picnic Areas

Pets in the Sierra National Forest

Recreation Report - get the latest info on which campgrounds, roads and picnic areas are open!

Trip Planning

Leave No Trace