Hike-in Required
No
ADA accessible
No
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Upper Owens River is one of the most pristine spring-fed streams of the Eastern Sierra, and it is a very popular spot among fly-fishing anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the Owens River, Pleasant Valley Reservoir, and the nearby Happy Boulders Climbing Area. The Happy Boulders are nestled in a small canyon nearby, above the Owens River Valley. This is a world-class volcanic bouldering area with hundreds of routes. Camping is available at nearby Inyo County Pleasant Valley Campground or the BLM Pleasant Valley Pit Campground, which is popular among climbers.

The Owens River is fed from the Pleasant Valley Reservoir, which is dammed for hydroelectric power. Fall fishing for brown trout is excellent, and spring is better for rainbow trout. There are various fishing rules and guidelines here depending on which part of the river you are in and whether you are fishing from the Pleasant Valley Campground property or adjacent properties. Pay attention to the signs, especially around the dam and reservoir, and adhere to the regulations. Enjoy this beautiful valley below the Eastern Sierra.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Shaded campgrounds. River and fishing access. Nearby climbing.

Cons

Popular campsite. Several different fishing restrictions.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Features

Big vistas
Geologically significant

Location

Nearby Adventures

Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California
Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California
Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California

Comments

04/04/2016
Year round fishing always makes this a great stop.
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