The sound of rushing Rock Creek defines the experience at this expansive 133-site campground, where the water flows for over a mile alongside camping areas in Inyo National Forest. Sites range dramatically from shaded spots under tall pines near the creek to open meadow locations with minimal cover, creating distinct camping experiences within the same facility.
K B. notes that "a few sites are right on the creek" where "the sound of the rushing creek muffled all undesirable campground sounds." The campground operates on a mixed reservation system, with roughly half the sites bookable in advance and half available first-come, first-served. Sites numbered in the 100s sit closest to Rock Creek, while others spread across varied terrain including aspen groves and open areas.
Flush toilets and running water surprise many visitors expecting basic forest service facilities. Each site includes a picnic table and bear box, essential given the wildlife activity reported by campers. The campground serves as a staging area for Little Lakes Valley access and other Eastern Sierra adventures, positioned three miles below Rock Creek Lake and four miles from the Mosquito Flat trailhead.
The rough access road requires attention, particularly for larger RVs, though the campground accommodates vehicles up to 38 feet. Sites vary significantly in privacy and spacing - some offer ample room while others sit close together. Camp hosts maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the season from mid-May to mid-October.
This campground works well for campers who prioritize creek access and don't mind variable site conditions. The mix of reservable and walk-up sites, combined with the large size, means availability often exists even during busy periods, though the prime creekside spots fill quickly.
Description
Overview
East Fork Canyon is in a beautiful wooded section of Rock Creek Canyon, near Lower Rock Creek. Anglers, hikers and photographers enjoy this scenic location in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. The facility is large and accommodating, with several loops of campsites.Opening and closing dates for the season are dependent on weather.
Recreation
Rock Creek and other waterways in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for their exceptional trout fishing. A catch from the creek may include brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout, while anglers in the backcountry are treated to populations of golden trout. The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are an obvious draw for hikers and mountain bikers. There are several trails in and around Rock Creek Canyon, some of which meander around high-elevation alpine lakes.
Facilities
The campground has four loops. Some campsites are close together, and some sit along the banks of the creek. There is a mix of sun and shade. Firewood is available for purchase on-site. Bears inhabit the area; bear-proof lockers for food storage are located throughout the campground.
Natural Features
This beautifully wooded area is dense with pine and fir trees, with aspens that turn golden and shimmer in the fall. Sitting at an elevation of 8,900 ft., East Fork offers views of the taller mountain peaks that surround it. The campground is adjacent to the clear, cold and cascading Rock Creek, which originates in the John Muir Wilderness and runs for 22 miles through the bottom of Rock Creek Canyon. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika and many species of fish and birds.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (760) 935-4012.
Nearby Attractions
For campers interested in local events, Mule Days are held in nearby Bishop over Memorial Day weekend, and the Mammoth Jazz Jubilee is hosted in Mammoth in mid-July.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsEast Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA) is located in California near Swall Meadows
Directions
From Bishop or Mammoth Lakes, California, follow U.S. Highway 395 (about 30 miles north of Bishop). Take the Tom's Place exit and go 6 miles on Rock Creek Road.
Address
INYO
CA
Coordinates
37.4836111 N
118.7175 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 4 hrs 18 min from Merced, CA
- 5 hrs 7 min from Visalia, CA
- 5 hrs 8 min from Fresno, CA
- 5 hrs 15 min from Hanford, CA
