Panther Lake – Campsite #1

Note about Panther Lake: Some maps show two campsites on Panther Lake (eg. the official park map), and other maps show one campsite on Panther Lake (eg. Jeff’s Map). There is a note on Jeff’s Map saying “Despite the fact that there’s only one campsite on Panther L, two permits are available. This means you could get a permit to camp on Panther L, only to find the only campsite occupied.” There is in fact two campsites, however Campsite #2 is in very rough condition and missing an official campsite marker, so the campsite has likely been decommissioned. 

The official campsite on Panther Lake isn’t a great site, but it is interesting. It’s very exposed, and it seems like either a campfire got out of control or there was a small fire from lightning at some point. A few of the trees are dead and partially burnt, though still in the ground. The campsite was in rough shape when I arrived. There’s a fire pit which had most of the rocks taken out, seemingly used to tie a tent down. I did my best to put the fire pit back together. Speaking of the fire pit, there are no benches. There’s some old lawn chairs and a tarp; I left with the other garbage but unfortunately did not have room to take the big stuff. Perhaps someone else can get to it. The site still has character though. It’s a beautiful lake with a great view. You’re up fairly high at the campsite, and the lack of trees means you can relax and look around. Though this does make it harder to set up a hammock. There is only one good place to pitch a tent; two if you’re willing to have an uncomfortable sleep. Once you’ve warmed up to the campsite, and if it isn’t raining, it’s a cute spot.