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Map showing campground location near Swall Meadows, California
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Big Meadows Campground

4 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Eleven sites along a fishing stream in the eastern Sierra, with ten positioned directly beside the water and one facing an open meadow. Big Meadows Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis within Inyo National Forest, which keeps crowds manageable through the June-to-September season. No reservations means no guarantees, but as one reviewer notes, it's "usually never full." The campground draws a mix of anglers and rock climbers, and the atmosphere tends toward low-key, with camp hosts who actively discourage loud music or late-night noise.

Bear lockers are on-site for food storage, which matters here. Wildlife sightings come up consistently across reviews, and food left out draws both citations and unwanted visitors. Drinking water, toilets, and picnic tables are available, and the campground accommodates RVs up to 49 feet. Sites are drive-in, so access is straightforward. Edge sites may have open sightlines toward the meadow, though most of the layout stays close to the stream.

Hiking connects in multiple directions from the campground, with trails accessible within a short drive. Coin showers and laundry are available nearby, useful for longer stays. Cleanliness of the on-site bathrooms has been inconsistent across visits, according to reviewers. Campers who want a different setup in the same corridor can look at Iris Meadow Campground to the north, or Palisade Campground to the south for a nearby alternative.

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Map & DirectionsBig Meadows Campground is located in California near Swall Meadows

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Bishop go north on Hwy 395 approximately 23 miles (or South from Mammoth Lakes 10 miles) to Toms Place.  Turn west on Rock Creek Road approximately 5 miles. Big Meadow Campground will be on your right about 1/2 mile past Iris Meadow Campground.

Coordinates

37.51100029 N
118.714 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Big Meadows Campground

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the campground's central location and peaceful setting with good access to hiking and natural areas. Facility cleanliness received mixed feedback, particularly for bathrooms.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Dec. 25, 2025

Against my better judgment!

Just had to share my experience after spending six awesome nights at this campground last September! It’s a sweet spot for seasonal campers, mostly attracting fishermen and rock climbers who love their peace and quiet. There are eleven sites—ten right by the stream and one facing a large meadow, where you can still hear that stream trickling away. The vibe here is all about chilling out, and it mostly draws older folks who enjoy a laid-back atmosphere. Robert and Kathy are the camp hosts, and they’re super friendly. Even though they manage the campground next door, they pop by a couple of times a day to check in on everyone. Chatting with Robert is a treat; he’s a chill former cop from London! They’re both really accommodating, but they don’t put up with any loud music or partying. I really appreciate that since I’m there for the nature, not the noise. Overall, my stay was fantastic, and I can’t wait to go back! Just keep this little gem between us, okay?

Site8
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground by Dick T., December 25, 2025
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground by Dick T., December 25, 2025
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground by Dick T., December 25, 2025
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2022

Decent

Lots of wildlife. Bathrooms at the campground weren’t kept very clean but the ones up at the shower were half way cleaned. If you get a edge site it may have a good view. Coin showers and laundry. Great hiking in the area.

SiteE186
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2020

Beautiful campground close to Rock Creek Lake

Beautiful first come, first serve campground in the eastern sierra’s. 11 sites are nestled in the trees/meadow next to a great fishing stream. Bear lockers are available for food storage, as are 2 bathrooms. No host or ranger on site. Do not leave food out ever, you will be ticketed! This is bear country. campground is peaceful and quiet and usually never full because you cannot reserve space here. Just show up and hope you get lucky!

  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground by Toni P., August 28, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground by Toni P., August 28, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground by Toni P., August 28, 2020
  • (11) View All
Reviewed Jul. 31, 2016

Big meadows skyline drive

Fun campground! Pretty central in the skyline drive scene. Not for those looking for exclusive or excluded campsites, but it's very nice. Close to big meadows lodge, and a 10 minute walk to the beautiful big meadows. Take time to walk through the meadows and experience the peace of the meadows as few people actually venture from their cars. It's also a nice 20-30 minute drive multiple hikes in either direction.

Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at Big Meadow Campground?

Big Meadow Campground features 11 campsites nestled among trees next to a meadow and fishing stream. Facilities include bear lockers for required food storage, two bathrooms, and coin-operated showers and laundry facilities available in the general area. There is typically no host or ranger stationed on-site. The campground is primitive but functional, with basic necessities for an outdoor experience. Visitors should be prepared for bear activity in the area and always properly store food.

What do photos of Big Meadow Campground show about the camping experience?

Photos of Big Meadow Campground reveal a serene outdoor experience with campsites tucked among trees adjacent to a lovely meadow. You'll see the beautiful Eastern Sierra landscape with potential wildlife sightings throughout the area. Images typically showcase the peaceful setting next to a fishing stream, basic campsite layouts, and the natural beauty of the surrounding forest. Edge sites offer particularly nice views of the area. The campground's rustic charm and natural setting are prominent features in any visual documentation of the area.

Is there a map of Big Meadow Campground showing campsites and trails?

While specific map information isn't detailed, visitors can obtain maps of Big Meadow Campground from the Inyo National Forest visitor centers or on the official Forest Service website. For the most current and detailed campground layout showing the 11 campsites and nearby trails, contact the Inyo National Forest district office before your trip. Maps typically show the campsite arrangement, nearby Rock Creek, trail access points, and the surrounding meadow area.

Where is Big Meadow Campground located in Inyo National Forest?

Big Meadow Campground is located in the Eastern Sierra region of Inyo National Forest. The campground is situated near Rock Creek, offering a picturesque setting in a wooded area adjacent to a beautiful meadow. It's a first-come, first-served campground that serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Eastern Sierra wilderness. The location provides easy access to hiking trails and fishing opportunities in the Rock Creek area.

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