
Hone Quarry Recreation Area
A serene mountain escape with a beautiful quarry lake, perfect for fishing, camping, and peaceful outdoor adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for fishing and cooler hikes

Hone Quarry Recreation Area
Best Time
Ideal for fishing and cooler hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain escape with a beautiful quarry lake, perfect for fishing, camping, and peaceful outdoor adventures.
"A BEAUTIFUL, PEACEFUL PLACE to get away into the mountains."

Bring Exact Cash for Fees
:moneybag: Pay the $5 camping fee in cash via drop box. Rangers can be strict about late payments.
Drive Slowly on Paved Road
:car: The road has many potholes. Take your time to avoid tire damage.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Quarry Lake
Main Recreation Area
A stunning, peaceful spot for fishing and kayaking. Enjoy the clear waters and surrounding mountain beauty.

Secluded Campsites
Campground
Ten campsites offer semi-privacy with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Perfect for a quiet mountain getaway.

Mountain Hiking Trails
Various trailheads
Explore scenic trails offering breathtaking views and opportunities to connect with nature. Some trails are maintained by the Forest Service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King at Hone Quarry
Road Conditions & Preparation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Exact Cash for Fees
:moneybag: Pay the $5 camping fee in cash via drop box. Rangers can be strict about late payments.
Drive Slowly on Paved Road
:car: The road has many potholes. Take your time to avoid tire damage.
No Cell Service Here
:iphone: Expect no cell service. Inform others of your plans before you go.
Pit Toilets Available
:toilet: Outhouses are available and generally kept clean.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Exact Cash for Fees
:moneybag: Pay the $5 camping fee in cash via drop box. Rangers can be strict about late payments.
Drive Slowly on Paved Road
:car: The road has many potholes. Take your time to avoid tire damage.
No Cell Service Here
:iphone: Expect no cell service. Inform others of your plans before you go.
Pit Toilets Available
:toilet: Outhouses are available and generally kept clean.
Fishing & Kayaking Fun
:fishing_pole: The quarry lake is great for fishing and bringing a kayak.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hone Quarry Recreation Area is praised for its beautiful, peaceful mountain setting and the serene quarry lake, making it ideal for fishing and camping. Visitors appreciate the semi-private campsites and the affordable $5 fee. However, the road leading to the area is rough with many potholes, and cell service is non-existent, requiring careful preparation.
"Great little camping area. There are only about 10 camp sites though, and they seem to fill up quickly. Far enough from each other that you have semi-privacy. (Maybe 20 feet of trees between sites). The road is paved, but lots of pot holes. Honestly I didn’t think it was that bad if you just drive slowly and carefully. Bring $5 bills. The fee is $5 but it’s a drop box type thing. Camping area had tent pad, picnic table, and fire ring. The toilet is a pit toilet, but fairly clean and nice (as far as pit toilets go). I hope to go back sometime."
Aaron Green
"Love Hone Quarry, just not the road to the lake-brush on the side of the road punched a hole in my tire and there's no phone service (draw back), but a couple nice fishermen took us to a store where we had phone service and I got my tire changed, but it's a BEAUTIFUL, PEACEFUL PLACE. Have been talking our kids there, camping and fishing or just getting away into the mountains ever since they were young and they're adults."
Cat Person
"This place is amazing. I have loved the last couple hikes that I have finished here. The road is very bumpy, lots of deep potholes. The quarry is beautiful, and it looks like people can bring a kayak out and fish. I can't wait to try that this Summer. This place has so much to offer!"
Andrea Sanders
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hone Quarry Recreation Area is accessible via a paved road. However, be aware that this road has numerous potholes, so drive slowly and cautiously. Some visitors have noted brush encroaching on the roadside, so keep an eye on your vehicle's clearance. There is no cell service in the area, so plan your navigation beforehand.
The road is paved but has many deep potholes. Driving slowly and carefully is recommended to avoid tire damage.
Download offline maps of the area before you leave home. Inform someone of your travel plans and expected return time.
While the area is remote, some visitors have mentioned finding assistance in nearby stores if needed, though it may require driving to an area with cell service.
While the road is paved, the potholes can be significant. A vehicle with higher clearance might be more comfortable, but many visitors report successfully navigating it with standard cars if they drive slowly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The camping fee is $5 per night. This is a self-pay system using a drop box, so be sure to bring exact cash.
There are only about 10 campsites, and they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early, particularly on weekends.
Each campsite typically includes a tent pad, a picnic table, and a fire ring.
The provided information focuses on camping fees. It's best to check with the local Forest Service for any specific day-use fees, though the $5 fee is primarily for overnight stays.
Some visitors have reported receiving tickets for not paying the camping fee immediately upon arrival. It's crucial to have cash ready or pay as soon as possible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hone Quarry is excellent for fishing and kayaking on the quarry lake. Hiking on the surrounding mountain trails is also a popular activity.
Yes, there are pit toilets (outhouses) available at the recreation area, which are generally reported as being fairly clean.
The campsites are spaced about 20 feet apart with trees in between, offering a degree of semi-privacy.
Yes, families enjoy Hone Quarry for camping, fishing, and getting away into the mountains. It offers a peaceful escape.
Expect beautiful mountain scenery, a peaceful quarry lake, and a serene natural environment. It's described as a gorgeous and peaceful place.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hone Quarry Recreation Area is a natural camping and outdoor destination. There are no restaurants or food services available on-site. You'll need to bring all your own food and supplies.
Given the remote location, plan for campfire cooking, portable grills, or pre-prepared meals. Pack non-perishable items and ensure you have a way to keep food cold.
You'll need to stock up on groceries before heading to Hone Quarry, as there are no stores in the immediate vicinity. Plan to shop in a larger town before your arrival.
Yes, each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, making it convenient for outdoor dining.
Yes, fire rings are provided at each campsite, allowing for campfires for cooking and warmth, provided fire restrictions are not in place.
📸 📸 Photography
The quarry lake itself offers stunning reflections and a serene backdrop. The surrounding mountains provide scenic vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset. Capture the rustic charm of the campsites and the natural beauty of the forest.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best natural light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
While specific viewpoints aren't detailed, exploring the trails around the lake and higher elevations will likely reveal picturesque spots. The lake's edge provides excellent opportunities for water reflections.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Focus on calm water, soft light, and natural elements. Including elements like a lone fishing rod or a quiet campsite can enhance the sense of peace.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack all your food and essentials, as there are no services on-site. The drive in requires caution due to potholes, so ensure your vehicle is up for it and drive slowly. The lack of cell service can be a blessing for unplugging, but ensure you have a plan for communication if needed. The $5 cash fee is easy to manage with exact change.
🎣 Anglers and Kayakers
Be prepared for the drive, as the road can be rough. Having your fishing gear and kayak ready upon arrival will allow you to make the most of your time. The $5 camping fee is a small price for access to such a beautiful and tranquil spot. Remember to check local fishing regulations before your trip.
🏕️ Budget Campers
While the cost is low, be prepared for the rustic nature of the facilities, including pit toilets. The main 'cost' is the effort required to navigate the pothole-ridden road and the need to be fully self-sufficient with food and supplies. For those who prioritize nature and affordability over luxury, Hone Quarry is a gem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Road to Hone Quarry
Despite the road's condition, many find the destination well worth the effort. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of Hone Quarry are frequently highlighted by visitors. The challenge of the road often contributes to the secluded feel of the area, making it a desirable escape for those seeking tranquility. Planning ahead for navigation and driving with patience are key to a smooth arrival.
Camping Essentials and Etiquette
Given the remote nature of Hone Quarry, visitors are expected to be self-sufficient. This means bringing all necessary food, water, and camping gear. There are no on-site services, so stocking up in advance is essential. Respecting the quiet atmosphere and the natural environment is part of the camping etiquette here. Many visitors return year after year for the peaceful escape it provides, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace and preserving the area's charm.
Fishing and Outdoor Activities
Beyond the lake, the surrounding mountains offer opportunities for hiking. While specific trail details are scarce in user reviews, the general sentiment is that the area provides a beautiful and peaceful environment for exploring nature. The combination of fishing, kayaking, and hiking makes Hone Quarry a well-rounded destination for outdoor lovers seeking a serene mountain retreat.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit