Edison Lake & Florence Lake — Camping, Recreation & Ferry Guide
Here’s a quick overview. Edison Lake camping is best for visitors who want a High Sierra lake experience with designated sites, basic campground facilities, and access to wilderness trails. On the other side of the coin, Florence Lake is better for campers who prefer slightly more primitive, dispersed camping with ferry-assisted backcountry access.
Both lakes live in the Sierra National Forest in California, beyond Shaver Lake and Kaiser Pass Road, surrounded by granite, forest, cold water, and long stretches of quiet. They are beautiful places to camp, fish, hike, and start a wilderness trip, but they require more planning than a typical drive-up lake campground.
Know Before You Go
Seasonal Access
Edison Lake and Florence Lake are seasonal destinations, typically accessible from late May through October.
Know the Road
Kaiser Pass Road is narrow, winding, and not recommended for large RVs or trailers. Take your time, especially on steep switchbacks and narrow sections.
Limited Cell Service
Cell service is limited or nonexistent in most areas around both lakes, so visitors should download maps, confirm reservations, and carry emergency supplies before driving in.
Wilderness Permits
Permits may be required for wilderness camping and backpacking into the John Muir Wilderness or nearby backcountry areas.
Campfire Permits
Campfire permits are usually required for dispersed camping in the Sierra National Forest, and campfire restrictions may be imposed during dry late-summer months.
Pack-In, Pack-Out & Dispersed Camping
Pack-in, pack-out policies apply to all dispersed camping areas, including sites found along hiking trails near Florence Lake, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Edison Lake & Florence Lake: High Sierra Wilderness Gateways
Edison Lake and Florence Lake sit deep in the Sierra National Forest, in a remote area that feels far removed from town life. The drive in takes a bit of patience, but once you arrive, the reward is a quiet mountain lake setting surrounded by forest, water, granite slopes, and access to some of California’s best wilderness trails. Both lakes serve as gateways to the John Muir Wilderness and longer backcountry routes.
From these lake areas, hikers can connect to the:
- John Muir Trail
- Pacific Crest Trail
- Selden Pass
- Marie Lakes
- Heart Lake
- Sallie Keyes Lakes
- San Joaquin River corridor
For trail details and more route options, see our hiking hub for Mono Hot Springs.
But how do these lakes differ?
The two lakes are distinct in a few key ways:
Edison Lake has more developed camping options, including campground areas with a picnic table, fire ring, bathrooms, and bear storage at many sites.
Florence Lake provides some primitive camping opportunities in the Sierra National Forest, with fewer facilities and more hike-in or dispersed camping access.
Because both lakes are high-elevation destinations, expect cool nights even in summer, strong sun during the day, changing weather, and possible snow on higher trails early season.
Camping at Edison Lake
Edison Lake is the better choice if you want a more traditional and developed campground experience near the water. The main camping option is Vermillion Campground, located on the northwest shore of Lake Thomas A. Edison. Sandy beach areas within the campground provide lake access for swimming. The campground operates seasonally, typically during the main summer use period from June through September. Edison Lake’s water levels fluctuate based on snowpack and drawdowns.
Vermillion Campground is best suited for tents and small RVs. Large RVs and motorhomes aren’t great because Kaiser Pass Road is narrow, winding, and includes single-lane sections with blind curves. Each campsite includes a picnic table, campfire ring, and bear-proof food storage locker. Vault toilets are provided, and water spigots are available on-site, though visitors should check the current water status and follow any posted treatment or boiling recommendations.
During peak summer, reservations are strongly recommended (Reservations for campsites at Edison Lake can be made via Recreation.gov), especially for weekends and holiday periods. The maximum stay at Vermillion Campground is 14 days. Expect simple but useful facilities rather than a full-service campground. Limited supplies and pay showers are available nearby at Vermillion Valley Resort, but visitors should still arrive prepared with food, water, fuel, maps, and basic emergency supplies.
Camping at Florence Lake
As mentioned earlier, Florence Lake is more primitive and better suited for self-reliant campers. Unlike Edison Lake, Florence Lake does not offer the same range of developed camping facilities nearby, although Jackass Meadow Campground reopened in July 2026 and offers marked sites, picnic tables, fire rings, bear lockers, water, and vault toilets. Beyond the developed campground, primitive camping may be available along wilderness routes near Florence Lake, especially for people heading toward the San Joaquin River, Blayney Meadows, or Muir Trail Ranch.
The area is beautiful, but once you leave the developed campground and trailhead areas, it’s not a casual campground experience. You need to carry your own shelter, food, water treatment, stove, and bear-safe storage. Bathrooms may be available near trailhead areas, but once you hike or take the ferry into remote camping areas, you should expect primitive conditions.
Bears are highly active in the Sierra Nevada region, which includes both the Edison Lake and Florence Lake areas. That means you need to secure all food, trash, toiletries, and scented supplies. Choose your site carefully! Use established campsites where available, stay at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, and trails, and avoid exposed spots too close to water. Don’t leave anything out while eating or sleeping.
Florence Lake is a good choice for backpackers, anglers, and visitors who want to use the lake as a starting point for a longer wilderness route, and people who like to camp in a more primitive, pristine environment among forest and trees rather than a developed camping site.
Florence Lake Ferry Services & Florence Lake Store
The Florence Lake ferry service operates across the lake during peak season for hiking access. It’s one of the most practical ways to reach remote trails and camps without walking the full shoreline route with a heavy pack.
The ferry typically connects the Florence Lake store side of the lake with the far trail access point. From there, hikers can continue toward the San Joaquin River, Blayney Meadows, Muir Trail Ranch, and routes leading deeper into the John Muir Wilderness.
Expect the ferry to run on a seasonal schedule, usually during the main summer period, with service depending on lake levels, weather, staffing, and road access. Pricing can vary, and gear transport may cost extra, especially for large packs, food boxes, or heavier supplies.
If your camping plan depends on the ferry, confirm the schedule before you arrive. Missing the last boat of the day can turn a simple transfer into a long hike.
Hiking & John Muir Wilderness Access
Hiking is one of the main reasons people camp near Edison Lake and Florence Lake. Both lakes connect to major wilderness routes, including access toward the John Muir Trail and nearby high-country destinations.
From Edison Lake, many visitors use trails around Mono Creek and routes connecting toward Bear Ridge, Selden Pass, and the larger backcountry network. From Florence Lake, hikers commonly head toward the San Joaquin River, Sallie Keyes Lakes, Marie Lakes, Heart Lake, and Selden Pass.
Day hikes are possible from both lake areas, but the bigger reward often comes from multi-day backpacking. Many parties start in the morning to make the most of weather and distance. Wilderness permits are required for overnight travel in designated wilderness areas, and trail quotas can fill during summer.
Trail conditions change by season. Early summer can bring snow patches, muddy trails, creek crossings, and mosquitoes. Mid-to-late summer through early fall usually offers the most reliable access, though nights can still be cold.
Explore route options on our hiking hub, or see more recreation ideas in our things to do guide.
Fishing at Edison & Florence Lakes
Fishing is a major draw at both lakes, and feeder streams like Mono and Cold Creeks. Anglers target wild German Brown, Rainbow, and Brook trout at the lake. Edison Lake, Florence Lake, nearby streams, and sections of the San Joaquin River all offer trout fishing opportunities, depending on access and conditions.
At Edison Lake, fishing can be done from shore, small boats, or quiet coves near camping areas. At Florence Lake, anglers may fish from the lake or use the ferry and trails to reach more remote water near the San Joaquin River.
A valid California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Always check current regulations before your trip, including limits, bait rules, and any special restrictions for the specific water you plan to fish.
Cold water, changing weather, and remote access mean you should bring layers, food, water treatment, and enough time to get back to camp before dark.
When to Visit Edison & Florence Lakes
Open Season: Late May through October
The best time to visit is mid-to-late summer through early fall. Roads usually begin opening in late May or early summer, depending on snow, but higher trails may still be limited.
July and August are the most dependable months for warm days, open trails, ferry access, and lake recreation. The peak season for visiting is July to August, so campground reservations, ferry plans, and lodging should be arranged ahead of time.
Fall can be excellent for fewer bugs, cooler hiking weather, and quieter campsites, but services may begin closing, and nights can get very cold.
Off Season: November through May
From November through May, road access is usually limited or closed by snow. Kaiser Pass Road and surrounding forest roads may be impassable, and Forest Service restrictions or closures can affect the area.
This is not the season for casual camping. Snow, avalanche risk, lack of services, and no cell coverage make winter travel suitable only for highly experienced backcountry travelers.
How Long to Stay at the Lakes
A day trip can work if you are already staying nearby, but it’s a long drive for a short visit. Between Kaiser Pass Road, trailhead access, ferry timing, and mountain weather, one day can feel rushed. If you plan to use the Florence Lake ferry, allow extra time to park in the upper lot near the store before boarding.
A weekend gives you more room. You can camp at Edison Lake, fish, hike, visit Florence Lake, or use the ferry for a trail day. It’s also enough time to enjoy the area without spending the whole visit packing and driving.
Longer stays are best for backpacking, extended camping, and exploring both lakes. Four or more nights gives you time to reach remote trails, adjust to elevation, and build in a buffer for weather, ferry changes, or slower travel.
Bring more supplies than you think you need. Food, fuel, water treatment, layers, and bear-safe storage matter here. Stores are limited, and the nearest larger shopping areas are far away.
Make Mono Hot Springs Your Basecamp
If you want to explore Edison Lake and Florence Lake without spending every night in primitive conditions, Mono Hot Springs is the ideal basecamp. We are located between the two lake areas, making it easy to reach Edison Lake, Florence Lake, nearby trails, fishing water, and wilderness access during the day.
Staying at Mono Hot Springs gives you a more comfortable alternative to backcountry camping. You can spend the day hiking, fishing, paddling, or visiting the Florence Lake store and ferry, then return for a hot spring soak, a meal, and a real place to rest.
Our resort offers cabins, a cafe, a general store, massage services, and natural hot springs for relaxation after long days outside. It’s especially helpful if the weather changes, campground sites are full, or you want one comfortable night before or after a wilderness trip.
Cabin reservations are recommended during the summer. For reservations and information, call 559 325 1710.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between camping at Edison Lake versus Florence Lake?
Edison Lake has more developed campground options with designated sites, bathrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, and better access for tents and small RVs. Florence Lake is more primitive, with dispersed camping and hike-in access near trails and the San Joaquin River.
Do I need permits for camping at Edison and Florence Lakes?
You may need a wilderness permit for overnight backpacking in the John Muir Wilderness or nearby wilderness areas. Campfire permits are usually required for dispersed camping in the Sierra National Forest, and fire restrictions may apply in dry months.
How do I access the Florence Lake ferry, and what does it cost?
The ferry leaves from the Florence Lake store area and crosses the lake to connect hikers with wilderness trailheads. It operates seasonally during peak hiking months. Prices and gear fees can change, so confirm current rates before arrival.
What should I know about bear safety when camping at these lakes?
Bears are highly active in the Sierra Nevada region. Store all food, trash, toiletries, and scented items in bear-proof lockers or approved bear canisters. Never leave food unattended at your site.
Can I make reservations for campsites at Edison Lake?
Yes. Vermillion Campground at Lake Thomas A. Edison is reservable during the summer season, and reservations are recommended for peak dates. Sites are generally best for tents and small RVs; large RVs are not recommended because of Kaiser Pass Road and campground limitations.
2026 Season starts May 22 to October 26
Important Notice
Mono Hot Springs Resort and the areas Kaiser Pass Road will open Memorial Day weekend, May 22, and will end October 26th.
For cabin reservations and information please call us at 559 325 1710. We take reservations year-round.
Mono Hot Springs has Tent Cabins, Historic Cabins, FS Campground Reservations in the Sierra Mountains south of Yosemite California!