We went hiking a couple weeks ago. Last year when we visited this place the lakes had no water in them, they fill up durring the spring and early summer then they are gone by fall.
Theres three small lakes, back in the 20's and 30's miners would draw water from these to cool their machinery down as they mined. They actually managed to drain the lakes completely and what they left behind are large pits of red clay and rust. When they fill up the water stays a rusty color, you can see it where Juniper had been playing as she kicked up the bottom.
Hence the 'Red Lakes', a hidden secret not many know about as they are off the beaten path.
Juniper thought they were the best and really enjoyed getting super muddy (and getting me and my bf muddy as well.. and the car..). We've had LOADS of rain recently and are planning to go back next week to see how much water is in them. x3 The other two were still rather dry.