Aside from the excellent fishing, Yellowhammer lake has the added and unique attraction of an old ranch, or camp. The structures, which would now be prohibited, were built in 1922 and so antedate the wilderness designation. Locked and unoccupied, they are now property of the federal government.

Usable facilities include a fire ring, the water pump, the kitchen with its wood stove, and the shower. To use the latter you must heat your own water (or not), then climb to the top of the shower hut and fill the cistern.

The ranch is more popular with equestrian groups, who often leave leftover unperishables for the next visitors. We helped ourselves to a couple of Diet Pepsis, coffee bags and instant coffee. Thanks, whoever you are. :)

Californians: Note Gary Condit's name shingle on the kitchen ceiling.