The Kaiser Wilderness was established in 1976 and is located immediately north of the busy and bustling beaches of Huntington Lake. The wilderness was named after Kaiser Ridge, which divides the area into two distinctly different regions. Most of Kaiser Ridge is 10, 320 feet high and Kaiser Peak provides a commanding view of the central Sierra Nevada. The northern portion is much steeper and more open than the more gentle terrain found in the southern portion of the wilderness.
GETTING THERE
Most visitors to the Kaiser Wilderness access the area from Huntington Lake, on Hwy 168 out of Fresno.
WILDERNESS PERMITS
A wilderness permit is required for all overnight stays in the Kaiser Wilderness, and a quota system is in effect year round. Why? 60% of the permit spaces are available for reservation ahead of time, while 40% are kept for first-come-first-served visitors 24 hours prior to their intended trip. There is a $5.00 non-refundable reservation fee for each person for all trailheads. Reservations can be made six months prior to your trip.
MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE
No more than 15 people and 25 head of stock are allowed on overnight trips. Why?
BEARS AND FOOD STORAGE
Proper food storage is required at all times. Bear canisters are recommended. The counter-balance method can also be effective if done properly. Use the bear section on this site to learn more about how to protect your food and the Sierra’s black bears.
CAMPFIRES
No campfires are allowed above 10,400 feet. In places where fires are allowed, make sure to always use smart campfire methods, and follow the Sierra National Forest guidelines.
PETS
Dogs must be controlled at all times.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Camping is prohibited within 200 feet of Upper Twin Lake and Nellie Lake. Stock use is prohibited within 1/4 miles of Jewell Lake, Campfire Lake, Walling Lake, Bill Lake, Bonnie Lake, and Bobby Lake, unless under special use permit.
CONTACT
Sierra National Forest
Supervisor’s Office
1600 Tollhouse Road
Clovis, CA 93612
559-297-0706
TTY 559-322-4925
High Sierra Ranger District
29688 Auberry Rd
P.O. Box 559
Prather, CA 93651
(559) 855-5355
Hearing Impaired California Relay Service 711