What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail is an extremely long point-to-point trail that runs all the way from Mexico to Canada. As it happens, the popular tail passes right through the Chimney Creek Recreation Area at Canebrake Road. The fairly challenging trail features forests, lakes, rocky areas, waterfalls, and more. Hikers, backpackers, and campers have all been known to visit the scenic trail regularly.
Length: 2,650 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Johnsondale Bridge River Trail
The Johnsondale Bridge River Trail is a beautiful out-and-back trail within the Sequoia National Forest. The trail will take you through lush forested areas, near rivers, and past waterfalls. You'll also find opportunities for fishing and rock climbing as you traverse the popular trail. The best time to visit is either summer or fall when the flow of the river isn't too strong.
Length: 5.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing & Boating
Although the area around Chimney Creek Campground is relatively arid, some fishing and boating options are within a reasonable distance. One nearby possibility is Lake Isabella, where you can catch a variety of fish species, including large- and smallmouth bass, rainbow and brown trout, kokanee salmon, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. You can also take a boat out onto the lake if you have a valid permit. Motorized boats, small fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, and sailboats are all great options, and visitors regularly use the lake for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing as well.
Climbing
Climbing enthusiasts will have a variety of fun and challenging climbs to choose from in the area around Chimney Creek Campground. The nearby Chimney Rocks area features multiple granite formations with numerous different climbing routes available. The most popular of the formations is Chimney Spire, which features at least 13 separate routes. The most popular Chimney Spire route is Duet, which is rated 5.8+. Other formations that adventurous climbers can take on include Chimney Rock, Crystal Wall, The Monk, Dinner Wall, Sasquatch Spire, and Moccasin Ridge.
Wildlife Viewing
The nearby Sequoia National Forest and National Park are both inhabited by diverse creatures. The area is particularly known for its large population of black bears, but they're far from the only wildlife you may spot. While exploring the area, you may be lucky enough to see coyotes, badgers, beavers, wolverines, mountain lions, foxes, deer, sheep, and more.
Picnicking
At the Chimney Creek Campground, every available campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. You can either enjoy your lunch at one of the tables or scope out a peaceful area near the creek and lay out a picnic blanket. Either way, you'll find the site a relaxing place for picnics.
