Within the Inyo National Forest along Highway 120, Aspen Campground provides first-come, first-served camping near Yosemite's eastern entrance. This USDA Forest Service facility sits alongside Lee Vining Creek in a mixed forest of pines and aspens, with approximately 57 sites spread across several loops.
Lee Vining Creek flows directly through the campground, creating a constant water soundtrack and attracting anglers to productive fishing spots. Many sites sit creek-side, while others occupy elevated positions among the trees. "Sites are very close and pretty small," notes Lisa, who also observed that most sites slope considerably and present leveling challenges for RVs. The tight loop turns can challenge less experienced drivers with larger rigs.
Bears actively patrol this area, requiring strict food storage in provided bear boxes. Several campers report wildlife encounters, from deer wandering through sites to bears attempting vehicle break-ins when food odors are detected. The campground fills by 4 PM most evenings during peak season, though weekday arrivals often find more availability.
Basic amenities include porta-potties and a single water spigot at the entrance. Verizon cell service remains poor throughout the campground. Lee Vining sits 10 minutes away for supplies and services, while nearby options include Big Bend Campground connected via a quiet dirt road suitable for walking dogs. This location works well for campers planning day trips into Yosemite's high country while avoiding the park's crowded campgrounds.
Description
The trailhead is a great starting point for hunters, hikers and horse riders that would like to explore the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. This trailhead has a large parking area and offers undeveloped camping at trailhead and 6 horse tie-stall with manger and hitch rail.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundAspen Campground is located in California
Directions
From Hwy 395 approximately six miles West on Hwy 120.
Coordinates
37.93900001 N
119.18800018 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/15/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/15/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/15/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/15/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 5 min from Carson City, NV
- 2 hrs 57 min from Merced, CA
- 3 hrs 7 min from Modesto, CA
- 3 hrs 25 min from Fresno, CA


























