Has anyone been up to the Strawberry Junction camping area in San Jacinto lately? I was wondering if there is water at Strawberry Junction--sometimes there is; sometimes not. I'm going up in a couple of weeks and don't want to pack a bunch of water if I can avoid it. I have put a call into the Ranger station and am awaiting a reply, but thought I'd check here, too.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

Mike

I went maybe two weekends ago and there was water all over the place including strawberry junction. I went down from the peak via PCT then deer springs. I carried a gator bottle of water and refilled very often, it was heavenly. There are definitely flies everywhere, but not too much to burden so long as you don't mind hanging your head down when you take a break.

Thanks, Michael! I've heard Strawberry Junction was drying up fast but lots of water surrounding the area. We're doing the Deer Springs Trail from Idylwild, about 4.5 miles to the campsite. I'm not familiar with this area and will have to consult a map. Thanks for the tip on the flies, too. I'll be bringing my headnet.

Mike

I'd say worst case you could always bring an empty pack with water bottles and mule some from north up the PCT a mile or two (it's an easier option than bringing it up from your car!). I definitely recall water on the path I took, but I breezed past the junction so I can't comment on that specific spot.

Edited by Trout on 07/14/2011 16:06:54 MDT.