Owens Lake Near Keeler Has Three Public Access Trails Created Alongside Dust-Control Work

KEELER, Calif. — The eastern shore of Owens Lake is part of a managed landscape where dust-control work also provides limited public access to wildlife habitat. Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) describes three public viewing areas: Plaza, Boulder Creek and Dirty Socks.

What can visitors see?

LADWP says the trails provide access to habitat used by more than 120 bird species, with shallow-water areas, islands and views of the lakebed. Plaza Trailhead includes art installations influenced by snowy plovers, while Boulder Creek has distinctive shade shelters. Dirty Socks is named for a nearby sulfurous spring.

Are visitors free to drive anywhere?

No. LADWP instructs motorists to use designated maintenance berm roads, park only where allowed and yield to work vehicles. People must stay off flooded and irrigated areas and not stop along work roads outside designated parking. These are active dust-control operations, not unrestricted off-road recreation.

What precautions apply?

Bring drinking water, never drink lake water, avoid construction areas, respect wildlife and do not camp on the lakebed. LADWP lists 760-876-4109 for access and safety questions. Road and trail conditions should be confirmed before a trip, especially after storms.

Official source: LADWP — Owens Lake Trails and Plaza.

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