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Map showing campground location near Mammoth Lakes, California
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NatureMap showing campground location near Mammoth Lakes, California

Duck Lake Dispersed

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Reaching Duck Lake Dispersed requires hiking in via Duck Pass Trail out of Mammoth Lakes, with the camp spots sitting roughly six miles up and over the pass where it connects to the John Muir Trail. Signage at that junction is sparse. The sites cluster near Duck Creek, with fire rings on a small incline overlooking a meadow, though the terrain is uneven enough that flat sleeping space is limited. Campers wanting a developed alternative can look at Coldwater Campground to the north, while those exploring campgrounds near Mammoth Lakes will find a range of access styles across the area.

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Map & DirectionsDuck Lake Dispersed is located in California near Mammoth Lakes

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

37.53896575 N
118.97041582 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
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    Verizon
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    AT&T
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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Duck Lake Dispersed

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4.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Sep. 16, 2018

Over the Pass to the JMT we go!

There are several ways to enter onto the John Muir Trail and one of the most scenic ways is via Duck Pass Trail our of Mammoth Lakes. It's about 6 miles up and over the pass to the JMT and a great way to work on acclimation. Since we were doing just that we did the short mileage and though we were travelling SOBO the closest camp spots were about 100 yards northbound. The signage when we entered onto the JMT was almost non existent. We actually started heading SOBO until we realized were had entered onto the trail and turned around for a quick switchback decent to the camp spots. They were not easily found as well so when you're heading down you'll see a meadow coming up on your right and Duck Creek in front of you and then heading to your left. The camp spots with fire ring are on the left up a small incline. Your view is of the meadow and though you can't really see the creek it's about 25 yards in front of you. The site is lacking in flat surface so it fits one person perfectly and then after that you start to spread out. We ended up with two by the fire ring and then three others went up a short trail to another semi sloped but clear surface (as seen in the pics). The site overall wasn't ideal but it had water and a bit of a view so it worked. If you didn't care to go quite as far I'd suggest stopping about a mile prior on the Duck Pass Trail and staying at the end of Duck Lake where there were abundant views and crystal clear lake to enjoy.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Duck Lake Dispersed by Steph H., September 16, 2018
  • Review photo of Duck Lake Dispersed by Steph H., September 16, 2018
  • Review photo of Duck Lake Dispersed by Steph H., September 16, 2018
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Showing results 1-1 of 1 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest camping areas to Duck Lake?

The closest developed camping areas to Duck Lake are located in the Mammoth Lakes region. Several campgrounds in the Inyo National Forest provide more established options with amenities like fire rings, tables, and vault toilets. For those seeking other dispersed options, backcountry camping is available at nearby lakes along the John Muir Trail. Each location offers different experiences, from family-friendly developed sites to remote wilderness camping, all within the beautiful Eastern Sierra landscape.

How do I get to Duck Lake campground from Mammoth Lakes?

From Mammoth Lakes, access Duck Lake via the Duck Pass Trail. The trailhead is located at the end of Coldwater Campground Road. This scenic but challenging route covers approximately 6 miles to Duck Lake, climbing over Duck Pass. The trail offers spectacular views and serves as an excellent acclimatization hike for those planning longer backcountry trips. Be prepared for significant elevation gain and alpine conditions. Parking is available at the trailhead, but can fill quickly during peak season.

What camping options are available at Duck Lake?

Duck Lake Dispersed offers primitive backcountry camping opportunities for hikers and backpackers. This is a dispersed camping area without developed facilities, making it ideal for those seeking a more remote wilderness experience. Camping is available along the Duck Lake shoreline where you can find suitable flat spots for tents. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles by camping at least 100 feet from water sources and using existing fire rings where permitted.

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