Cold water campground is located in the Lake Basin area of Mammoth lakes California. This HUGE campground is nestled above lake Mary between Coldwater creek and Mammoth creek which run on both sides of the campground. This campground is seasonal so you'll want to make sure if camping in early season that it is open. The campground is well maintained with gorgeous tall pines throughout. At the top of the campground there are several trail heads that lead to the upper lakes and Duck Pass. You do not need a permit to hike these lakes for day hikes but if your hiking out of the campground and over duck pass you will need to acquire a specific permit for the trail you will be hiking. There is fantastic fishing if you can make the rigorous hike to Hart lake or even Arrowhead with several more to choose from. Take plenty of water. I would say the mammoth lakes area is almost a fisherman's paradise with creeks and lakes galore. The beauty of the sierras is always worth a visit. This campground is wonderful and I would suggest it to anyone looking for a base camp to explore mammoth. The facilities were great and they are everywhere. Each campsite is equipped with picnic table and Bear Box for food storage. You'll want to Make sure that all food products or anything that smells delicious is stored in the bear box (especially out of your car). This is a Very Very active bear area. We had a bear steal the fish right off our stringer docking the boat at lake Mary. She and her two cubs and had no problem approaching us walking past and going straight to the boat where this fish was and she was not deterred by our shouts or bear bell. Overall Amazing campground with plenty to do. The town of mammoth is also just a few miles down the road and always wonderful to visit any season.