The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Fish Slough Petroglyphs are located near Bishop, California, not far from the Inyo and Sierra National Forests. The area is also a short drive from Kings Canyon National Park. Aside from viewing the petroglyphs, visitors to the area can explore Bishop Tuff and the Long Valley Caldera, which last erupted 750,000 years ago. The caldera created the Volcanic Tablelands, which is now home to a wide array of plants and animals. The area is beautiful and offers spectacular landscape photography opportunities.
There are no RV sites at the Fish Slough Petroglyphs, but many BLM locations do offer different camping amenities. To find BLM sites with camping options, search for “BLM camping near me.”
This trail offers steady climbs to the peak and can be steep in some areas, but the views from the top are beautiful.
Length: 15.2 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Located in the Inyo National Forest, this trail passes through dense pine forests and offers lovely views of the lakes.
Length: 5.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located in the nearby John Muir Wilderness, this trail follows along Rock Creek and offers incredible views of the Little Lakes Valley.
Length: 4.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This pet-friendly trail passes through a forest of bristlecone pines, some of the oldest trees in the world.
Length: 0.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
This beautiful trail in the John Muir Wilderness is perfect for a leisurely stroll, trail running, or walking your dog.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Easy
Nearby Lake Sabrina is a fantastic place to catch several types of trout, and the area around the lake also offers many opportunities for hiking. Fishing enthusiasts can also enjoy some fly fishing at Weir Pond in Bishop Creek Canyon.
The Volcanic Tableland where the Fish Slough Petroglyphs are located offers many excellent bouldering options. The bouldering opportunities vary in difficulty, so you can practice your skills or take on a challenge. For sport, traditional, and top-rope climbs, visitors can head to the Owens River Gorge, which offers almost 1,000 routes of varying difficulties.
The area around the Fish Slough Petroglyphs is fantastic for spotting wildlife such as mule deer, bears, squirrels, marmots, porcupines, pika, and beavers. During the evening, bats are common, and there are also many native and migratory birds that call the area home. The nearby Fish Slough Area of Critical Environmental Concern, Kings Canyon National Park, and both the Inyo and Sierra National Forests are also amazing locations for spotting animals or taking some wildlife photographs.
The Bishop City Park offers several shaded picnic areas, gazebos, and barbecue grills. There are also playgrounds. The La Hupp Picnic Ground in the Inyo National Forest also offers tables and provides beautiful views and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
Visitors can horseback ride throughout the Fish Slough Petroglyph area, and many of the nearby trails are ideal for horseback riding. The Bishop Pass Trail and Lower Rock Creek Canyon Trail, for example, are good options for many riders.
BLM RV camping is available at the Highlands RV Park. The park has 103 sites, and hookups are available. The area is pet-friendly, and there is a dump station. Brown’s Town Campground is another excellent option and offers 150 sites. Each site is shaded and has water and electric hookups. There are also showers, restrooms, and a laundry area. Grandview Campground has 22 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. The campground is quiet and secluded, and many people enjoy stargazing here at night.
Some of the best local Bureau of Land Management free camping can be found in the Inyo or Sierra National Forests. Visitors can choose to set up a primitive campsite almost anywhere in these forests, and the secluded location almost guarantees a peaceful camping experience with beautiful scenic views. There are limited amenities, though, so plan accordingly.
The area around the Fish Slough Petroglyphs is biologically diverse and contains a fragile ecosystem. The petroglyphs themselves are also fragile. For these reasons, it’s incredibly important that visitors to the area take care when enjoying the location’s sights or exploring. Do not do anything to damage the petroglyphs, and remember to always attempt to limit your impact on the environment whenever possible.
The Fish Slough Petroglyphs area sees relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. Summer temperatures might reach into the 80s, but the days are generally clear. There is more precipitation during the winter and spring months. In the higher elevations, snow can occur, but for the most part, winter temperatures hover in the mid to high 40s. Because the area does not have a great deal of humidity, temperatures can drop quickly during the evening or if there is cloud cover.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and wild areas should always be properly cared for, and because the Fish Slough Petroglyphs are historically important, tread lightly and Leave No Traces practices are even more crucial. As you enjoy the area, remember to stay on trails and to only camp on stable ground. Throw away all of your trash. If you see any trash on the ground, pick it up and dispose of it.
From Bishop, head north on US Highway 6 for 1.4 miles. Take a left on Five Bridges Road, and continue for 2.4 miles. Turn right on Fish Slough Road, and continue for 6.1 miles. The Fish Slough Petroglyphs will be on the left side of the road.
Ready to visit Fish Slough Petroglyphs? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
