Eldorado National Forest

Recreational Activities: Fishing

Wrights Lake

Species Present: Catchable rainbow or brown trout are stocked monthly by California Dept. of Fish and Game to supplement the wild trout production. Brook trout may also be caught.

Seasons: Although fishing is allowed year-round, the lake is inaccessible by vehicle in the winter due to snow. Be sure to check the fishing regulations on the Department of Fish and Game web site.

Access: From Kyburz on Highway 50, go east 5 miles to Wrights Lake Road. Turn left (north) and go 8 miles to the campgound. There are trails on both sides of the lake. There are two trailhead parking areas here for hikers going into the Desolation Wilderness; Rockbound parking area and Twin Lakes parking area.

Camping : Wrights Lake Campground and Wrights Lake Equestrian Campgound. A fee is charged. There is piped water, picnic tables, handicapped accessible toilets, grills, and fire-rings, but no hook-ups. Call 1-877-444-6777 for campsite reservations. Reservation season in the first friday after Fourth of July weekend through Labor Day. Usually open first-come, first served into early October.

Desolation Wilderness: Permits are required for day and overnight use. A quota on overnight permits is in effect from Memorial Weekend through September 30. Although not required, reservations for permits are recommended. Please contact the Pacific Ranger District for more information at 530-644-6048.

Map: Elevation: 7,000 feet. Forest and Desolation Wilderness maps area available at forest Ranger Stations. Click here for Crystal Basin Recreation area map from SMUD.

Comments: Elevation 7,000 feet. A popular swimming site. No motorboats are permitted on Wrights Lake, non-motorized craft only.

More Information and Wilderness Permits :

Pacific Ranger District
7887 Highway 50
Pollock Pines, CA 95726
(530) 647-5415

USDA Forest Service - Eldorado National Forest
Last Modified: Monday, 24 January 2005 at 19:11:14 EST