The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Camper submitted image from North Lake Campground - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from North Lake Campground - 2
Camping
Camper submitted image from North Lake Campground - 3
Nature
Camper submitted image from North Lake Campground - 4
Signs & Maps
Unlock Planning Tools in App

Established Camping

North Lake Campground

4 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

North Lake Campground, near Bishop, California, is a cozy retreat tucked away in the Inyo National Forest, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature. With a handful of sites surrounded by trees, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for camping, fishing, and hiking.

This small campground allows fires and pets, making it a welcoming place for families and friends to gather. Visitors have noted the spacious sites, which provide a bit of privacy, and the friendly vibe that comes from fellow campers. One reviewer mentioned, “You get a lot of day hikers and backpackers coming through, but it is fairly quiet and very friendly.”

If you're up for some adventure, North Lake Campground is a great base for exploring nearby hiking trails, including the one leading to Mount Lamarck. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to North Lake, where you can cast a line after a day of hiking. Just be prepared for the mountain chill at night, even if it’s hot during the day in Bishop.

While the drive to the campground can be a bit nerve-wracking due to narrow roads, many campers agree that the stunning mountain views and serene environment make it worth the trip. Whether you're planning a short getaway or a few nights under the stars, North Lake Campground offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle.

Suggest an Edit

Location

North Lake Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Bishop go west on State Route 168 (Line Street) approximately 18 miles. Turn right on North Lake Rd and go up the hill approximately 2 miles. Follow the signs to the campground 1/2 mile past North Lake.

Coordinates

37.22700004 N
118.62700067 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-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

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Bishop Park Group (Ca) — Inyo National Forest

Bishop Park Group (Ca) — Inyo National Forest

10 min away

Big Trees Campground

Big Trees Campground

13 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-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
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

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

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

California Contest

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

50%
25%
25%
0%
0%

4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Rick O.
Reviewed Apr. 16, 2021

Simple Get Away

Forested small campground perfect for relaxing, fishing and hiking.  After a few hours of fishing in nearby North Lake or hiking in the area you return to an uncrowded, quiet, pretty campground for the night.  Wouldn't recommend a long term stay here but a few nights is great.

SThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed May. 16, 2019

Great, quiet campground!

Small campground with 5 sites, fires and pets are allowed. You get a lot of day hikers and backpackers coming through, but it is fairly quiet and very friendly. Plenty of hiking trails! Campsites are also fairly large.

L
Reviewed Jul. 23, 2018

Excellent place to get away if you can stomach the drive

This is a first come first serve campground. It’s in the mountains above Bishop. The final road to the campsite is extremely narrow and along the edge of a mountain. If you can deal with the treatorous drive it’s worth the anxiety you‘ll experience getting there. The sites have enough space and trees between them that you’re afforded some privacy. There is good fishing a short walk or even shorter car ride away. We camped there Labor Day weekend and enjoyed the escape from the heat the mountains provided. Even if it’s 100 in Bishop bring a jacket and a warm sleeping bag. It will get cold at night and even during the day. We had fun camping here and will definitely return.

S
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2016

Great base camp if looking to climb Mount Lamarck

This is a great camp ground located at the trailhead for Mount Lamarck. Lots of running water near just about any of the camp sites. During the summer, mosquitos are quite pesky so be sure to bring lots of repellent. If looking to camp away from the crowds, continue up the Mount Lamarck trail and camp near Upper Lake.

  • Review photo of North Lake Campground by Shannon C., July 25, 2016
  • Review photo of North Lake Campground by Shannon C., July 25, 2016
  • Review photo of North Lake Campground by Shannon C., July 25, 2016
  • (11) View All
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at North Lake Campground in Inyo National Forest?

North Lake Campground is a small, rustic facility with only 5 campsites. The sites are fairly spacious and include fire rings where campfires are permitted. Pets are allowed at this campground. There's plenty of running water near most of the campsites, though this appears to be natural water sources rather than developed water systems. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations available. For specific information about toilets or other facilities, contact Inyo National Forest directly.

Are there good fishing opportunities at North Lake Campground?

Yes, North Lake Campground offers good fishing opportunities. The nearby North Lake is a popular fishing spot, and the campground serves as an excellent base for anglers. After fishing for a few hours, you can return to the quiet, uncrowded campground to relax. While the campground is perfect for fishing enthusiasts, it's recommended as a short-term stay of a few nights rather than an extended vacation spot.

Where is North Lake Campground located near Bishop, CA?

North Lake Campground is situated in the mountains above Bishop, California in the Inyo National Forest. The campground is located at the trailhead for Mount Lamarck, making it a popular starting point for hikers. Access requires navigating a narrow mountain road that can be challenging - the final approach is extremely narrow and runs along the edge of a mountain. The somewhat treacherous drive is worth it for the spectacular alpine setting, but requires careful driving.

What does North Lake Campground look like and are there photos available?

North Lake Campground is a small, forested campground with a scenic mountain setting. The five campsites are fairly large and spaced with adequate room between them. The area features natural running water near many sites and is surrounded by mountain views. The campground has a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere despite day hikers and backpackers passing through. Photos of the campground are likely available on the Inyo National Forest website, recreation.gov, or various camping apps including The Dyrt where users often share their campsite images.

Keep Exploring