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This camping season, are you interested in visiting a town surrounded by mountains? You may wish to think about RV camping in Mammoth Lakes. It includes the John Muir and Ansel Adams Wilderness forests.
If that's not enough to entice you to set up camp or leave your vehicle in Mammoth Lakes, the town is just roughly 32 miles from Yosemite National Park's eastern entrance.
So that you can organize your trip to California, let's have a look at some of the top Mammoth Lakes camping locations. i.e. the best campgrounds you can dream about!
Best Places for Mammoth Lakes Camping
Mammoth Lakes is in a more rural part of California. You won't find lavish RV resorts with cutting-edge fitness centers, spas, mini golf courses, or swimming pools.
Most of these Mammoth Lakes camping sites will be rustic, with no RV hookups. They may not have many conveniences, but they provide breathtaking beauty and seclusion.
1. Convict Lake Campground
Convict Lake is close enough to Mammoth Lakes yet far enough away from the noise and bustle of town to provide a more private nature experience.
It is located around 10 miles (15 minutes) south of Mammoth Lakes and has an elevation of 7,500 feet, whereas the Mammoth Lakes Basin averages around 9,000 feet depending on which campground you visit.
Convict Lake is one of the few easily accessible crystal clear turquoise lakes that can be driven up to rather than hiked into the bush to camp. However, the views of Mt Morrison and Laurel Mountain make this camping unequaled.
Convict Lake Campground fills up quickly due to its popularity (and with good reason: the views are breathtaking!).
There are 85 campsites, and while several may accommodate RVs, there are no connections; all sites are nonelectric, however there is a dump station, flushing toilets, and showers available next door at the Convict Lake Resort.
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2. Lake George Campground
With only 15 campsites, Lake George Campground is smaller than its neighbor, Lake Mary Campground, but it's still only a short drive away.
The pine forest that encircles the lake provides shade for the campsite and serves as a canopy.
However, because to the small area, guests can not expect much privacy as they tend to be close to one another.
The campsite offers a peaceful setting, and all of the sites are close to the lake if you're looking for lakeside tent camping in Mammoth.
3. Twin Lakes Campground Mammoth
Twin Lakes Campground is located in the Mammoth Lakes Basin's lowest lake and is also the region's largest campground.
This Mammoth Lake campground includes over 94 lakeshore campsites located on the eastern and western coasts of Twin Lakes.
Visitors can pick between sites near the shore and those higher up on the hill, which are only a short walk from the lake.
If you want seclusion, you'll be pleased to know that this region is heavily covered with lodgepole pines, which give adequate shade and further separate the sites.
4. Mammoth Mountain Chalets
Mammoth Mountain Chalets features 19 A-frame cabin rentals available year-round in a variety of sizes, some sleeping up to twelve people.
The cottages are located in the heart of town, right near to the Adventure Center and gondola. Each cabin includes a full kitchen and an outdoor barbecue. Most cottages are pet-friendly, and some have laundry facilities.
In the summer, the cabins are within walking distance of the shuttles, and in the winter, they are immediately next to Mammoth Mountain Resort, providing a ski-in/ski-out experience.
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5. Old Shady Rest Campground
Old Shady Rest Campground is located across the street, northwest of New Shady Rest Campground. This spot for early Mammoth Lakes RV camping opens its season around May 5.
The campground is one large loop that offers the same facilities as the New Shady Rest Campground.
Old Shady Rest Campground, like its adjoining campground, is popular among anglers, hikers, and mountain bikers. The tourist center and paved trail are also nearby.
6. Lake Mary Campground
Lake Mary is the Mammoth Lakes Basin's largest lake, as well as its most developed.
If you opt to stay in Lake May campground, you should be aware that it is slightly more busy than the other nearby campgrounds.
This is because the sites are close together, and despite the abundance of pine trees, there is little seclusion between neighbors.
However, camping at this campground will provide you with immediate access to the lake and its breathtaking views.
If you want to explore the John Muir Wilderness, the Duck Lake Pass Trailhead begins on the other side of the campground, near the edge of Coldwater Creek Road and Coldwater Campground.
7. June Lake Campground
Situated at the southernmost point of June Lake, the campground shares a butt with the town center. This takes away from the peaceful aspect of camping, but it does make it quite convenient for quick lunches in town or supply runs.
It's near the marina, where you may rent a kayak or a boat to go on a lake excursion and possibly even cross to the northern shore beach.
If you also don't want to be in the water, you can drive around the lake to the Oh Ridge Day Use Area and the beach.
While some sites are wedged together and closer to the sea, meaning they are somewhat exposed, others are tucked away, nicely covered, and seem extremely private.
8. McGee Creek RV Park
The final place for Mammoth Lakes RV camping is on the eastern side, off Highway 395. McGee Creek RV Park begins at the end of April and ends the second week in October.
There are two trout ponds, a dog park, potable water spigots, a bathhouse, a fish cleaning station, and a trash station on the grounds.
There is no need for a fishing license, however trout pond fishing costs money. The campground is within a short drive from Convict Lake.
McGee Creek RV Park is another campsite that has full hookups, partial hookups, and tent sites. Creekside premium sites cost roughly $60 per night, while other complete hookup services cost between $50 and $55. Dry sites cost approximately $35 per night.
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9. Camp High Sierra
For those seeking a slightly more upscale camping experience in Mammoth Lakes, Camp High Sierra offers partial hookups along with stunning surroundings.
The longest length, nevertheless, is thirty-two feet. Every campsite features a bear box, picnic table, and fire pit. There is a common water spigot and a 15 amp connection at sites with electricity.
Free hot showers, a fish-cleaning station, a dump station, and a recreation lodge with board games, ping pong, and a rock fireplace are available to visitors. Situated at the foot of the trendy skiing destination Mammoth Mountain lies Camp High Sierra.
10. Convict Lake Resort
Convict Lake Resort is just a 15-minute walk from the Convict Lake Campground, and it is the place to stay if you want to enjoy the outdoors while still having the convenience of home.
All of the hotels here are cabins that can accommodate anything from two to thirty-four people.
So, if you and your companion or party are not the outdoorsy kind and do not want to sleep in a tent or RV, this resort is ideal for you.
Except for events such as weddings, the resort maintains a very peaceful vibe. The apartments are ideal for large groups, so expect some noise if you book here.
11. East Fork Campground
East Fork Campground is a large campground with over 133 sites that are nestled alongside Rock Creek.
The landscape surrounding the campground is rugged, but the water from the creek nourishes the pine, fir, and aspen trees that provide plenty of cover for most of the sites.
Some sites are close to Rock Creek, which provides the opportunity to relax and sleep with the sound of the nearby rushing water.
The campground is located close to Rock Creek Lake and is also near the Little Lakes Trailhead, which leads you into the John Muir wilderness.
If you have issues with altitude, this campground near Mammoth Lakes might not be the best option for you as it sits at 8900 feet of elevation.
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12. Coldwater Campground
Coldwater Campground is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, 8,900 feet above sea level. Coldwater and Mammoth Creeks run through the campground, and visitors frequently see wildlife.
Coldwater offers a primitive camping experience where you can watch black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, pika, and birds.
The park has no hookups, however it does include two camping loops. There are water spigots, flush toilets, picnic tables, campfire rings, and bear-resistant food storage lockers.
Fishing and hiking are two of the most popular pastimes. Depending on the weather, the season lasts from the end of May until the end of September. Sites cost roughly $29 per night and may be booked through Recreation.gov.
13. Mammoth Mountain RV Park
Mammoth Mountain RV Park is the first full-hookup campsite in Mammoth Lakes on our list. It's conveniently located off Main Street, across from the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center and Ranger Station. Additionally open all year long is Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Complete hookups have a minimum stay requirement of three nights. These locations provide water, cable TV, sewer, and 30/50 amp service. In addition, there are cottages, overland sites, tent sites, and partial hookup sites.
Among the many services offered by Mammoth Mountain RV Park are a camp store, a dump station, laundry facilities, an indoor pool and spa, and a children's play area.
14. Four Jeffrey Campground
The last of our rustic Mammoth Lakes camping options is Four Jeffrey Campground, located in the valley between Table Mountain and Grouse Mountain. This campground has the highest elevation, at 8,100 feet.
On-site amenities for campers include picnic tables, hot tub, fire ring, bear-proof lockers, campfire rings, flush toilets, and drinking water.
The John Muir Wilderness has easily accessible trailheads for hiking and horseback riding. The popular Tyee Lakes Trailhead is located less than a mile up the road. Campers can swim and fish in the creek.
Between April 23 and May 20, campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The peak season begins and lasts until September 20. Sites are accessible on a first-come, first-served basis following the season until October 25.
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15. New Shady Rest Campground
New Shady Rest Campground, located in the Inyo National Forest, is another great campground and a great choice for basic Mammoth Lakes camping. Two big loops of campsites are at an elevation of 7,800 feet.
Campers have access to facilities with flush toilets, campfire rings, picnic tables, and bear-proof lockers. You can also buy firewood on-site.
Trout fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and skiing are popular activities here. This campground is also near to the tourist center, where campers can learn more about the surrounding environment.
A paved walking and bike track connects two adjacent campgrounds, Mammoth Lakes, and a town park with a playing field and skate park.
Depending on the weather, the camping season at New Shady Rest Campground begins on Memorial Day weekend and continues until the end of October.
16. Rock Creek Lake Campground
Situated along Highway 395, approximately 35 minutes southeast of Mammoth Lakes, is where you'll find this campground: at the southeast tip of Rock Creek Lake.
The closest town is a little distance away, which could work to your benefit if you want to feel as though you're camping in the middle of nowhere.
The location is peaceful, offers fantastic access to the lake and its pristine waters, and is just a nice spot to unwind with stunning views of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Day hikers frequently use the Little Lakes and Mono Pass Trailhead, which are near to this campground.
All things considered, this is among the greatest campgrounds close to Mammoth Lakes, making it ideal for people who wish to avoid the mammoth crowds.
17. Sherwin Creek Campground
Sherwin Creek Campground is one of the easternmost campgrounds on this list. It is less than four miles from Highway 395. The campsites on all three loops are within walking distance of the creek. The elevation is 7600 feet.
Sherwin Creek Campground, like other campgrounds, is popular with fishermen, hikers, and mountain bikers. This region is extremely popular among off-road enthusiasts.
Sherwin Creek Campground, which includes a motocross track and trails, is a wonderful place for guests to bring their outdoor toys.
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18. Silver Lake Campground
Silver Lake Campground, located at a height of 7,200 feet, offers 63 tent and RV sites. The sites here can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet long.
There are bear-proof lockers, flush restrooms, picnic tables, campfire rings, and drinking water on the premises. A boat ramp and a small shop are also nearby.
The scenery around Silver Lake is magnificent. This basic campground, located at the base of two peaks towering over 10,000 feet tall, provides numerous possibilities to observe wildlife and interact with nature.
Hikers can readily access Ansel Adams Wilderness via a trailhead, while anglers and boaters can enjoy water sports.
19.Reds Meadow Campground
Reds Meadow Campground is located less than 2 miles from the Devil's Postpile National Monument parking area, if you would like to visit.
This campground is an excellent starting point to explore portions of two legendary thru-hikes, since it offers easy access to both the John Muir Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail.
Situated in a scenic meadow, the campsite is conveniently close to Reds Meadow Hot Springs and Sotcher Lake, both of which can be reached on short hikes.
The region is served by the Reds Meadow Shuttle Bus, but if you are camping here, you can drive via the campground's restricted access road with your car for an additional cost.
20. French Camp Campground
French Camp, which is directly off Highway 395 and situated between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes, is a wonderful, peaceful place to stay the night if you're traveling through the area or heading to Mammoth Lakes.
Rock Creek, which borders it on one side, is a terrific place to go fishing. You can see lots of anglers and fisherman there, relaxing and having a nice day.
This campground feels more hidden and remote than the others surrounding Mammoth Lakes.
Thus, you might want to check this site out if you really enjoy some quiet time in the great outdoors away from the people.
There is a creek that runs beside the large, private campsites, which provide lots of shade and seclusion.
There aren't any free showers, but you can pay to take one less than a mile away at Tom's place.
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21. Upper Soda Springs Campground
Upper Soda Springs Campground is an underrated campground in the Mammoth area. The Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River flows right next to the campground and is a great place for wading and trout fishing.
This is also a great starting point for the free shuttle to Devil's Postpile Monument and Red's Meadow. You can also hike near Minaret Falls and Rainbow Falls, two must-see spots in Mammoth.
The campsites are not very close to each other, so privacy is maintained. At the same time, the entire area provides plenty of shade with lodgepole pine trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have any question about Mammoth Campgrounds? Well, we do not know what the question would be, but below are few question duly answered by us, we believe it will be helpful.
Q1. Is free camping available in Mammoth?
Indeed, you can camp for free in a few places in Mammoth. Additionally, the majority of these locations are first-come, first-served and do not require reservations in advance. Also be aware that dry camping is the main use for these locations.
Q2. Where is it possible to camp in Mammoth Lakes?
No, Mammoth Lakes does not permit camping in any area. You should check ahead because there are particular dispersed camping places where you can camp in addition to the regular campgrounds.
Q3. What is the price of camping at Mammoth?
In Mammoth Lakes, a campsite typically costs $30 per night.
Q4. In Mammoth, where can you camp during the winter?
The Mammoth Mountain RV Park allows camping throughout the winter. Unlike the majority of the campgrounds in the area, which are only open seasonally, it is open year-round.
Q5. Is a reservation required for Mammoth Lakes?
To visit Mammoth Lakes, no reservations are required. If you intend to camp at one of the well-established campgrounds, you will, unless they have a first-come, first-served policy, need to reserve a spot in advance.
Final thought on Mammoth Campgrounds
It might be difficult to select the ideal campground in Mammoth Lakes when there are so many to pick from. Hurry now to book campgrounds suitable for you and you friends or loved ones
You won't have any trouble organizing your camping vacation to Mammoth Lakes when you visit the Eastern Sierras using this list.
Now prepare for your next major adventure by packing your camping supplies and loading the car.