Best Glamping near Alabama Hills, CA

Whitney Portal and Onion Valley offer distinctive glamping experiences near the Alabama Hills, with accommodations including yurts and safari-style canvas tents. These locations provide comfortable bedding, electricity, and bear-proof storage lockers for a refined outdoor experience at elevations that offer relief from valley heat. "Had a wonderful time exploring the area of the Alabama Hills below and was a wonderful campsite to beat the heat of the valley," noted one visitor who appreciated the cooler mountain temperatures. Both locations feature picnic tables and fire rings, while some sites include private decks overlooking mountain vistas. The proximity to flowing streams adds a natural soundtrack to the glamping experience, with several sites positioned to maximize views of Mount Whitney and the surrounding Sierra Nevada range.

Hiking trails accessible directly from these glamping sites connect visitors to spectacular alpine lakes and meadows without requiring permits for day excursions. The Whitney Portal Store, within walking distance of the glamping area, serves notably large pancakes and burgers that campers frequently mention in reviews. One guest shared, "The Burger and Beer was a welcome site after a week in the sierras, the big surprise was breakfast, the single pancake was big enough to feed three people." The Alabama Hills recreation area below offers additional exploration opportunities with its distinctive rock formations featured in numerous films. Glamping accommodations remain available from late April through October, with peak season reservations recommended 6 months in advance. The sites provide an ideal base for acclimatization before more ambitious backcountry adventures or simply enjoying the transition between forest and desert landscapes.

Best Glamping Sites Near Alabama Hills, California (19)

    1. Whitney Portal

    30 Reviews
    Alabama Hills, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 937-6070

    $34 - $95 / night

    "Had a wonderful time exploring the area of the Alabama Hills below and was a wonderful campsite to beat the heat of the valley, at that time was over 100 degrees."

    "The camp ground,itself has a beautiful stream running,through it, which ia stocked periodically with trout."

    2. Diaz Lake Campground

    15 Reviews
    Alabama Hills, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-5577

    $14 - $35 / night

    "We had the lake to ourselves and we could launch our canoe directly from campsite #112.  "

    "This is a great driving reprieve from traveling along the 395! A lovely little lake surrounded by giant oak trees that offer lots of nice shade to spend time resting."

    3. Onion Valley

    8 Reviews
    Seven Pines, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 937-6070

    $31 / night

    "Even if you are just going to day hike, it provides access to incredible country. "

    "Lots of cool hikes nearby, including waterfalls and the Kearsarge Pass. The views are unreal. It gets cold at night so make sure you come prepared."

    4. Sentinel Campground — Kings Canyon National Park

    13 Reviews
    Hume, CA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $32 / night

    "Be prepared for a LONG drive to get anywhere.

    The campsite was amazing!!! You are nestled by the river and under beautiful big trees."

    "Beautiful campground close to the ranger station, surrounded by pine trees and rivers."

    5. Sheep Creek Campground — Kings Canyon National Park

    7 Reviews
    Hume, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $32 / night

    "There are a lot of camping options in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, especially if you are willing to be a little further away from the big trees."

    "Sheep Creek Campground is close to the river and a tributary of it runs very close to the North End. It is about half a mile from the General Store and ranger station."

    6. Monarch Lakes Backcountry Sites

    2 Reviews
    Three Rivers, CA
    29 miles
    Website

    "This is one of my favorite here in sequoia national park south entrance by gen hi way. Park rangers were so helpful at the entrance and they are well organized."

    "The lake isn't too cold if you want to rinse or just cool off. Plenty of tree coverage for both some shade and to hang your food."

    7. Sequoia National Forest Quaking Aspen Campground

    10 Reviews
    Camp Nelson, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 539-5230

    $34 - $233 / night

    "It was very clean and there is a bunkbed with two full size beds and another separate full size bed. The bathrooms were also kept very clean."

    "We arrived on a Sunday and there were first come first serve campgrounds available. We stayed one night but there were plenty of spots to choose from."

    8. Canyon View Group Sites — Kings Canyon National Park

    5 Reviews
    Hume, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $50 - $70 / night

    "Bathrooms were kept clean. It is at the bottom of the canyon so if you want to do the activities up in Sequoia National Park it is about a 2 hr drive each way."

    "The moment you’re on that winding highway and see the reddish color of a sequoia tree, the feeling is unspeakable.

    This Park has everything you need, from food, trails, and views."

    9. Moraine Campground — Kings Canyon National Park

    4 Reviews
    Hume, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $32 / night

    "We arrived Fourth of July weekend and the drive down to the campground is absolutely stunning! We stayed at site 120 which was very spacious and partially shaded."

    "Moraine (campsite) has quite a few spots but is very secluded because it is the furthest (or close to it) distance from the general store."

    10. Princess

    15 Reviews
    Hume, CA
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 335-2232

    $34 - $72 / night

    "Probably could have secured a first-come-first-served site within Sequoia NP, but rather have the comfort knowing our site was waiting for us after a 6 hour drive up to Sequoia National Forrest."

    "While I did not camp here, I did drive through and checked out the sites.

    I was looking to get a bit further on my driving or I would have happily set up camp.  "

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Glamping Reviews near Alabama Hills, CA

169 Reviews of 19 Alabama Hills Campgrounds


  • D
    Apr. 9, 2017

    Whitney Portal

    Whitney Portal great way to beat the valley heat

    Had a wonderful time exploring the area of the Alabama Hills below and was a wonderful campsite to beat the heat of the valley, at that time was over 100 degrees. The stream was flowing and had just been load with fish, the campground was open and as well as the store/restaurant. The Burger and Beer was a welcome site after a week in the sierras, the big surprise was breakfast, the single pancake was big enough to feed three people. Do not order the short stack unless you have an army of people to feed. The campsite was kept very clean and well organized, firewood for campfires and an abundance of information about the hike to the top and surrounding areas.

  • Azizah T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2021

    Moraine Campground — Kings Canyon National Park

    Full of families and close drive to trails

    We arrived Fourth of July weekend and the drive down to the campground is absolutely stunning! We stayed at site 120 which was very spacious and partially shaded. The river was a lot lower than I have seen the past few times I have been here 4 years ago. Therefore there was a lot of people playing in the river. There are flushable toilets at the campground but no electricity so bring your flashlights. This campground is located towards the end of the road and it’s a great location being close to roaring river trailhead and zumwalt meadows and roads end trail. Cedar grove is just a few minutes away where you can get some groceries or little souvenirs. The campground was extremely packed and filled with families. For campers looking for peaceful camping I do not recommend this campground. But since I have a new son whose 9 months old, I was fine with the noise. Quiet hours were respected and that’s the most important part. I loved the location of the campground as you look around you are surrounded by beauty and you’re right in the canyon!

  • Missy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2021

    Sentinel Campground — Kings Canyon National Park

    Amazing getaway

    Sentinel was the only campground available for a visit to Kings Canyon and Sequoia. Be prepared for a LONG drive to get anywhere.

    The campsite was amazing!!! You are nestled by the river and under beautiful big trees. The site was spacious with a picnic table, fire pit and bear box.

    The restroom is dated, but it’s a flush toilet and running water, which is a gift. They do have a sink to clean dishes.

    I found it to be pretty quiet. Most sites were dark shortly after sunset. A lot of people were up and out early in the morning. So many amazing hikes and walks to do within the two parks.

  • Kathryn C.
    Jul. 15, 2018

    Whitney Portal

    The campground at the base ofba great mountain.

    This camp ground is at the base of a very magestic mountain. Because Whitney is the tallest peak in the lower 48, this is a busy area. But it is still very relaxing and beautiful. And the camp host, Bill, is amazing. Very friendly, helpful and patient. The camp ground,itself has a beautiful stream running,through it, which ia stocked periodically with trout. It is close to Whitney portal, alabama hills, onion valley, and many other hiking/backpacking destinations. We took out 7 and 9 year old boys and they had a blast.

    I have two issues with the camp ground is the site are small. It took some creativity to get out tent to fit.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 5, 2025

    Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Good free camping next to a road

    Stayed probably 10 nights here this season between February and May. It can fill up quickly in the afternoon or evening, so plan to arrive early and, if going out to play, leave something to indicate your site is occupied.

    This is tent only but I’ve slept in my small truck camper here and many sleep in vans or vehicles. I’ve seen quite a few small RVs here too.

    Water is not potable year round, will be deemed not potable and/or shut off mid-May per convo with NPS employee. Fill at Stovepipe, Panamint, or elsewhere in summer. Showers, pool, WiFi available 10-ish miles away at Stovepipe for $10. No cell service at camp. Spotty 3G at Stovepipe.

    Bathrooms are clean with no noticeable mold. Site can get VERY windy. Take care of your stuff. I’ve saved multiple tents here that weren’t properly secured while their owners were out for the day.

    No shade here and the road can be loud. Traffic fumes can also be a factor, depending on wind direction, for those who are sensitive when people using the rest stop leave their rigs idling.

    Overall, I recommend this spot as a single night or two but not for much more than that. It’s a great base close to showers but far enough out of the busier campgrounds and crowds.

  • Sam M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2018

    Buckeye Flat Campground — Sequoia National Park

    trees trees trees

    This is a really cool little campground near the entrance of Sequoia National Park. The sites are tent only, so no hookups or anything like that. Pretty nice sites though, a lot of space. I think there can be fire restrictions in the summer since it can get so dry, so just be aware of that. As far as places go, it wasn't too pricey. I think we paid about $20 a night. There are bathrooms with running water, and the sites have picnic tables and fire rings. Each site also has storage lockers for your food, so be sure to lock it up in order to keep the bears from getting into it.

    As for stuff to do around here, you obviously have to check out the trees. Go look at General Sherman and all the other Sequoia trees. They're so amazing and honestly it humbles you a little. Also check out Moro Rock Trail. The view from the top is amazing. You'll also probably see a fair amount of wildlife while you're hiking around, so be careful of the bears. Out of all my trips to California, I've seen the most bears here in Sequoia. They are super cool creatures, just keep a respectful distance and of course don't feed them.

  • K
    Jul. 12, 2016

    Princess

    Central location for visiting Kings Canyon and Sequoia NP

    Probably could have secured a first-come-first-served site within Sequoia NP, but rather have the comfort knowing our site was waiting for us after a 6 hour drive up to Sequoia National Forrest. The campground hosts were busy when we arrived, but made their way over to our site to check us in after we were set up. After that, we saw the hosts make several trips around the campground each day, keeping an watchful eye on all campers. Clean restrooms! (pit toilets) Clean fire ring upon arrival Site Size - small, comfortably fit 3-person tent, but would not have been able to fit a second of the same size (maybe two 2-person backpacking tents would work) Density - not much privacy in the sites to the inside of each loop, the outer sites appeared to have more privacy. Great location for a day trip to Kings Canyon NP and then a second day trip to the northern sites of Sequoia NP.

  • Jeff V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Whitney Portal

    Cool, popular, gorgeous, has lots of bears

    Bears will break into vehicles with food, scraps, wrappers, etc.  Even a cardboard box can invite the critters' attentions.  So keep a clean car if parking there and use the bear boxes provided by the forest service. 

    The Whitney Portal store is a stroll away with famously good food, run by the same family since before I was a ranger there back in the 1990s.  They have some last minute supplies too, if you discover you forgot anything from rain gear to a stove canister. 

    I'd camp here to hike Meysan Lakes and the start of the Whitney trail to Lone Pine Lake, neither of which require permits for day hikes.  It's a great camp for acclimatization.  The National Rec Trail gets overlooked, but showcases the transition from forest at the Portal to desert scrub at the bottom, following the stream, albeit from a neighboring ridge. 

    I'd also consider other campgrounds in the area, as there's a fair bit to do around Lone Pine for such a small town, and the Whitney Portal's position at the end of the road means you'll need to ascend/descend a mile in elevation over 13 steep and twisting curves every time you leave or return. 

    The bears and popularity of the Portal limit my enthusiasm for it a bit, but the positives of a store and restaurant, showers, and great hikes make camping here worth the effort for a few days.  It's certainly a great way to get used to the thinner air if you're then headed for the back country. 

    If one had the luxury of time and the luck/good planning of getting reservations for Cottonwood as well as Whitney Portal, I'd check out both for additional hiking and fishing, as well as the Alabama Hills, which offer free boon docking.  

    The whole Owen's Valley is one great opportunity after another for all sorts of outdoor sports and enjoyment, but Lone Pine has more than its share of nearby attractions and the Whitney Portal is high on that list.

  • Bosn E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 22, 2025

    Diaz Lake Campground

    Sprawling Campground along Hwy 395

    Because we had site 112, and it was March not July, and we could launch our canoe without any muss or fuss, and there were only a few other campers, I give this park 4 stars.  If we were here in July, well...we wouldn't stay here in July...period.  I can only imagine the crowds here after May 1.  This is a small lake and they limit the number of motorboats to 25, which is about 20 too many in my estimation.  Also, there is mandatory vessel inspection for mussels, and a $10 a day launch fee after May 1.  

    So, timing is everything.  We had the lake to ourselves and we could launch our canoe directly from campsite #112.  The water is muddy, and much of the bank is not accessible from the water due to reeds, but the scenery looking at Mt Lone Pine, and Mt Whitney across the Alabama Hills is beautiful!

    There was no check-in in March.  Reservations are online, and they will have your name on the post at the site when you arrive.  However, after May 1, you must have any vessel you are bringing with you inspected prior to entering the campground.

    Each site will have a picnic table and fire ring and there are several water spigots throughout the campground where you can top off your tank.  However, most of the spigots do not have a nipple to screw on a water hose.  There are a couple that do.  There are also vault toilets and trash dumpsters throughout the campground.

    The main downside to this campground regarding amenities is the lack of a dump site.  However, Boulder Creek RV Park just south on 395 will let you use their dump site for $25.   

    The staff are very approachable and friendly and a couple of the maintenance guys even left us some cut firewood as they were thinning out the salt cedar trees.

    The only demerits I give this campground in the offseason is the loud hwy noise from 395, which is inherent, and the small bits of trash that have become components of the sand.  Trash like broken glass, bottle caps, crushed aluminum cans, cigarette butts, dental floss applicators, etc.  Small stuff everywhere.  We spent an afternoon sifting through the sand, picking up trash around our campground, but it was really too big of a job for just 2 people.  Inyo County should organize a community clean up day where an army of volunteers with rakes can really go through the sand to pick up all of the debris.


Guide to Alabama Hills

Dispersed camping options surround the Alabama Hills at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates between valley floor and mountain sites. Temperatures vary dramatically by elevation, with mountain campgrounds running 15-20°F cooler than valley locations during summer months. Water availability becomes limited in most locations by mid-July, requiring campers to pack additional supplies.

What to do

High-altitude day hikes: Onion Valley Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring alpine lakes without overnight backcountry permits. "This campground sits above 9000 ft and you can drive there, park your car next to your site. It is a great basecamp for day hikes up into to higher altitude. There are multiple lakes a short hike away and waterfalls on 3 sides," notes one visitor.

Stargazing sessions: Light pollution remains minimal throughout the region, with elevation enhancing visibility. A camper at Sentinel Campground observed, "Beautiful campground close to the ranger station, surrounded by pine trees and rivers. We had site 8, which was a large site close to the restrooms... there were several great spots to put a tent."

Bear awareness training: Bear activity increases at higher elevations during summer months. Rangers frequently conduct educational sessions at larger campgrounds. "Bears will break into vehicles with food, scraps, wrappers, etc. Even a cardboard box can invite the critters' attentions. So keep a clean car if parking there and use the bear boxes provided by the forest service," warns a Whitney Portal camper.

What campers like

Temperature variation: Sequoia National Forest Quaking Aspen Campground provides natural cooling at 7,000 feet. "It's a beautiful campground. The campground hosts never came around and it felt like we could have stayed for free. We had some questions about the area and in order to get some answers we had to drive to the nearest people," one visitor shared.

Seasonal accessibility: Most high-elevation glamping close to Alabama Hills, California becomes accessible by late April, with snow lingering at higher elevations. "We stayed at one of the group campsites with about 15 people total. Plenty of space and picnic tables my only complaint was that there was only one normal sized bear locker for a group campsite," notes a camper at Quaking Aspen Campground.

Proximity to trailheads: Sheep Creek Campground positions visitors near multiple hiking routes. "Great campground with nice and spacious sites and several trails accessible directly from the campground. Site number 25 was a real winner. Set back from the road and very large is was great. Also close to the bathrooms without being too close...if you know what I mean," reports one visitor.

What you should know

Permit requirements: Overnight backcountry trips require wilderness permits obtained through recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance. Day hikes from established campgrounds typically don't require permits. "I'd camp here to hike Meysan Lakes and the start of the Whitney trail to Lone Pine Lake, neither of which require permits for day hikes. It's a great camp for acclimatization," explains a Whitney Portal camper.

Water availability: Most campgrounds turn off potable water by mid-September. "Bring water or water filters as the spigots are dry. There's a creek to get water to filter," advises one Diaz Lake Campground visitor about late-season conditions.

Cell service limitations: Signal becomes virtually nonexistent above 6,000 feet. "No service within the campground so make sure you have everything available to you," warns a Quaking Aspen visitor. Another camper noted, "If cell signal is an issue this campground only had 1 bar for Verizon."

Fire restrictions: Regulations change weekly during summer based on conditions. "Due keep in mind you will need to obtain campfire permit online before you arrive depending if there are fire restrictions or not," reminds a Quaking Aspen visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Gradual acclimatization: Allow children to adjust to elevation by spending first night at lower elevations. "This is a great place to go and sleep and then continue with your trip," advises a Diaz Lake camper, referring to its 3,700-foot elevation as preparation for higher destinations.

Site selection strategy: Princess Campground offers family-friendly accommodations. "We spend Memorial Day weekend at this nice campground at Morning Star site 26. Beautiful situated next to a little water flow and a big stump the kids played on. Space between the sites, but no low brush, so neighbors can be seen," notes a visitor.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife sightings. "Our site (#75) was not very wide but backed onto a lovely patch of woodland that had deer and other critters passing through it," describes a Princess Campground visitor.

Tips from RVers

Generator-free zones: Many campgrounds prohibit generators during specific hours. "This campground is way up into the Sierras, which means the views are amazing and it serves as a great jumping off point for backpacking trips. Just double check that your site is actually a drive-in site if that is what you want," advises a Onion Valley camper.

Road grade considerations: Access roads to higher elevation glamping sites near Alabama Hills feature steep grades and switchbacks. "Site 84 was technically approved for a trailer over 10 feet, but a serious squeeze to get our trailer and explorer to fit within the lines," warns a Moraine Campground visitor.

Dump station availability: Limited facilities exist for waste disposal at higher elevations. "The highlight of our visit to Princess was that after we camped at Hume Lake, we were able to stop back by on our way home and use the RV sewer cleanout and water fill-up station for free! It is usually $10 but for this weekend (maybe longer?) it was comped, which was awesome."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Alabama Hills, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Alabama Hills, CA is Whitney Portal with a 4.8-star rating from 30 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near Alabama Hills, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 glamping camping locations near Alabama Hills, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.