Established Camping
French Camp Campground
French Camp Campground, near Inyo National Forest, is a solid choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without too much fuss. With a mix of tent and RV sites, it’s a straightforward spot where you can kick back and enjoy the great outdoors.
The campground is surrounded by smaller trees that provide some cover, but if you want the best shade, aim for the sites near the creek. Visitors have mentioned that these spots not only offer a bit more privacy but also let you enjoy the soothing sounds of the water. Flush toilets are available, and the place is generally well-maintained, which is always a plus.
If you’re up for some adventure, you’re in a prime location to explore nearby areas like Rock Creek and Mammoth. While the campground itself is pretty quiet, you might hear some traffic from the nearby highway, so if peace and quiet are your top priorities, consider heading to the southern end of the campground for a more secluded experience.
Campers have noted that firewood and supplies can be found just down the road at Toms Place, making it easy to stock up for your stay. Whether you’re fishing at Rock Creek Lake or just enjoying a night under the stars, French Camp Campground offers a straightforward and enjoyable camping experience.
Description
US Forest Service
Inyo National Forest
Overview
French Camp lies in the Rock Creek area of the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains, near Tom's Place and midway between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes, California. Its ideal location makes this campground a good stop for travelers on U.S. Highway 395 to rest overnight. Hiking opportunities are vast, and the creekside campground is convenient for fishing. The facility is large and inviting, with forest and mountain views and several amenities. 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 includ brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout. The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are an obvious draw for hikers and mountain bikers. Because of the region's interesting geology, rockhounding is also popular.
Facilities
French Camp is a large facility with a variety of settings for tents and small to medium RVs (no hookups available). A few campsites can accommodate medium to large RVs and trailers. Sites are organized in one large loop, with some along the banks of the creek. Each has a picnic table and campfire ring. Firewood is available on-site for purchase, and nearby Tom's Place offers additional supplies and fee showers.
Natural Features
Campers will experience the beauty of pines and fragrant junipers that have come to represent Inyo National Forest. The campground sits among aspens, pinyon and ponderosa and Jeffrey pines at an elevation of 7,500 ft. The clear, cold and cascading Rock Creek, which originates in the John Muir Wilderness, runs alongside it. Brushy landscape and ample boulders in the area are fun to explore and traverse. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika and many species of fish and birds.
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.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (760) 935-4824.
Location
French Camp Campground is located in California
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 1 mile on Rock Creek Road.
Address
INYO
CA
Coordinates
37.5525 N
118.6791667 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome Coverage- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
