Top 8 Camping Spots Near Mammoth Lakes, CA

Top Campgrounds in the Mammoth Lakes, CA Area: A Complete Guide

Nestled in the stunning Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Lakes, California, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from alpine lakes and towering mountains to dense forests and scenic trails. Whether you’re an avid hiker, an angler, a first-time camper, or just looking for a peaceful escape into nature, the Mammoth Lakes area has some incredible campgrounds to choose from.

Here’s a rundown of the top camping grounds around Mammoth Lakes, CA, organized from south to north along Route 395.

1. Lone Pine Campground

• Type: Tent & RV Camping
  
• Location: 12 miles south of Mammoth Lakes, near the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, at Lone Pine.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • Situated at the foot of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous U.S., this campground offers breathtaking views and great access to nearby hiking trails, including the Mount Whitney Trail.
    
  • The area is rich in history, with nearby Alabama Hills known for their striking rock formations and their role in many Western films.
    
  • The campground offers a quieter; more relaxed atmosphere compared to other campgrounds in the Mammoth Lakes area.
    
• Perfect for: Hikers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a tranquil camping experience with dramatic mountain views.

2.  Rock Creek Campground

• Type: Tent & RV Camping
  
• Location: About 18 miles south of Mammoth Lakes in the Rock Creek Canyon area.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • This popular campground is set near the pristine Rock Creek, offering access to stunning alpine lakes, waterfalls, and incredible hiking trails.
    
  • The area is known for its lush meadows, dense forests, and towering peaks.
    
• Perfect for: Hikers, anglers, and those seeking a peaceful yet accessible spot in the mountains.
  

3. Crowley Lake Campground

• Type: Tent & RV Camping
  
• Location: 15 miles south of Mammoth Lakes, near Crowley Lake.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • This campground is located near one of the best fishing spots in the Eastern Sierra, making it perfect for anglers.
    
  • Crowley Lake is known for its large trout population, and the campground offers easy access to the lake as well as scenic hiking trails.
    
  • With panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, it’s a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
    
• Perfect for: Anglers, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing lakeside experience.
  

4. Convict Lake Campground

• Type: Tent & RV Camping
  
• Location: 15 miles south of Mammoth Lakes off Highway 395.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • Situated next to the beautiful Convict Lake, this campground offers excellent fishing and water activities.
    
  • The surrounding mountains make for stunning views and excellent hiking.
    
• Perfect for: Nature lovers and those looking for a scenic, quiet spot to relax.

5. Shady Rest Campground

• Type: Tent & RV Camping
  
• Location: Close to Mammoth Lakes town.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • Shady Rest is a centrally located campground, providing easy access to local shops, restaurants, and recreational spots.
    
  • A great choice for campers who want to be close to town but still enjoy a natural, wooded atmosphere.
    
• Perfect for: Campers who want a mix of nature and convenience.

6. Lake Mary Campground

• Type: Tent Camping
  
• Location: Mammoth Lakes Basin, near Lake Mary.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • Offering stunning lakefront views, this campground provides the perfect backdrop for fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
    
  • It’s a peaceful setting with well-maintained sites in a lush pine forest.
    
• Perfect for: Tent campers and anyone looking for a tranquil lakeside experience.
  

7. June Lake Campground

• Type: Tent & RV Camping
  
• Location: 25 minutes from Mammoth Lakes, in June Lake.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • June Lake offers a more serene alternative to the busier Mammoth Lakes campgrounds.
    
  • It’s a great spot for fishing, swimming, and boating, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
    
• Perfect for: Campers looking for a peaceful lakeside getaway.
  

8. Silver Lake Campground

• Type: Tent & RV Camping
  
• Location: In the June Lake Loop, about 20 minutes from Mammoth Lakes.
  
• Why Choose It:
  
  • Silver Lake offers a picturesque setting with views of the surrounding peaks and lush meadows.
    
  • The campground is near a popular fishing lake and provides great access to hiking and scenic drives.
    
  • Excellent for those wanting to explore the June Lake Loop, which features multiple alpine lakes and scenic vistas.
    
• Perfect for: Families, anglers, and those looking to enjoy the beauty of the June Lake Loop.
  

Key Tips for Camping in the Mammoth Lakes Area

• Reservations: Many of these campgrounds fill up quickly during peak seasons (especially in summer), so it’s highly recommended to make reservations in advance. Here’s how you can do that:
  
  • National Forest Campgrounds: For campgrounds like Rock Creek Campground or Lake Mary Campground, you can make reservations through Recreation.gov. Simply visit their website, search for your desired campground, and book your spot. It’s an easy and secure way to reserve your site.
    
  • Be sure to plan ahead, especially for weekends and holiday weekends when campsites can fill up months in advance.
    
  • First-Come, First-Served: Some campgrounds in the area operate on a first-come, first-served basis, including Lone Pine Campground. While this offers some flexibility, it also means that these sites can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
    
• Season: The peak camping season is typically late June to September. However, some campgrounds remain open into the fall, depending on weather conditions. Be sure to check seasonal openings before you go.
  
• Weather: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for cooler temperatures at night, even in summer months. Always bring layered clothing, as temperatures can vary drastically between day and night.
  
• Altitude: Many of the campgrounds are at high elevations. Be aware of potential altitude sickness, especially if you’re coming from lower altitudes. Take time to acclimate and stay hydrated.

Conclusion

The Mammoth Lakes area offers a wealth of camping experiences, from serene lakeside spots to secluded forest sites and bustling RV parks with all the amenities. No matter your camping style or level of experience, you’re sure to find a perfect spot in this beautiful region.

Looking to start planning your trip? Don’t forget to check the availability and make reservations early, as these sites can fill up fast during peak season!