About DEER CREEK
Overview Deer Creek Campground is located in California Sierra National Forest. The campground is tucked under dense fir and pines along the shore of Huntington Lake and offers scenic lake views, especially during the annual sailboat regatta. Boats can be moored near some of the camp sites. There are two loops to this campground: one is more heavily forested with more sites along the lake, and the other has more open and sunny sites with closer access to the resort community of Lakeshore. All sites have a view of Huntington Lake.Recreation There are many hiking trails in the area, including Rancheria Falls, Indian Pools and Black Point. Hikers and horseback riders can access the 12-mile Kaiser Loop Trail, which connects to a network of trails within the Kaiser Wilderness. Huntington Lake offers many activities, including swimming, sailing, boating, non-motorized boating, fishing and water skiing. Additionally, California Land Management sponsors a variety of interpretive programs and nature walks throughout the summer at several locations in the Huntington Lake area.Facilities Each site has a paved parking spur, table, fire ring, and grill. A pay phone, drinking water, flush toilets and accessible flush toilets are provided.Natural Features The Sierra National Forest, located on the western slope of the central Sierra Nevada, is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and abundant natural resources. The terrain includes rolling, oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the High Sierra. Nearby Attractions Deer Creek Campground's proximity to the Kaiser Wilderness offers the chance to explore a wide network of hiking trails. This wilderness area is known for its scenic alpine and meadow views. The Billy Creek Guard Station Museum is adjacent to the campground. It provides historical overviews on Huntington Lake, Native Americans and the Forest Service. Contact Info For facility specific informatio
How to Get There
Take Hwy 168 east from Clovis to Shaver Lake. Continue through Shaver Lake to Huntington Lake. Continue around Huntington Lake for 1.2 miles to Deer Creek Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to DEER CREEK
Heading to DEER CREEK? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for DEER CREEK?
No central reservation system listed for DEER CREEK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232813) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to DEER CREEK?
Take Hwy 168 east from Clovis to Shaver Lake. Continue through Shaver Lake to Huntington Lake. Continue around Huntington Lake for 1.2 miles to Deer Creek Campground.
How do I contact DEER CREEK?
You can reach the park at phone: 559-893-2111 or email: vista@vista-rec.com.
References & Official Resources