Paoha Island is a mere 230 years old. Hot springs and steam vents in the basin and around the lake show that it is still volcanicly active. Interpretive Activities Naturalists lead walks throughout the year at the South Tufa Area, and offer a large variety of activities during the summer. Ask at the Scenic Area Visitor Center about scheduled walls, talks, evening programs, and special children's activities. There are no campgrounds in the Scenic Area, but the Forest Service and Mono County maintain campgrounds nearby in Lee Vining Canyon, in Lundy Canyon, and in the June Lake Loop.
Dispersed camping is permitted in some areas.
Ask for more information at the Ranger Station or Scenic Area Visitor Center. Many of the dirt roads in the basin are too sandy for conventional vehicles. Use caution pulling onto the shoulder. Off-roading is not permitted in the Scenic Area. Please stay on designated roads.