Camping opportunities near Alabama Hills, California provide access to both the Owens Valley landscape and the towering Sierra Nevada range. The area sits at elevations ranging from 3,700 to 4,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Most campsites lack natural shade, making tree coverage a premium feature for summer visitors when daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Mountain hiking access: Whitney Portal serves as the primary trailhead for Mount Whitney summit attempts. "This is a great campground to use as a base camp before you summit Whitney. The staff is friendly and helpful and the portal is just a few minutes away with the store and small restaurant," notes Andy H. The portal area offers multiple hiking options, including non-permit day hikes.
Wildlife viewing: The campsites near Alabama Hills provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Sequoia RV Ranch, "Turkeys and lots of birds roaming" can be spotted according to Erin A. Military aircraft enthusiasts may appreciate that "Jets from the local military base fly through practicing turns and passes. Cool to see," as mentioned by Olivia K.
Water activities: Several campgrounds feature water access despite the desert setting. "The small lake was ideal for a bit of casual kayaking and nature watching - mostly birds and dragonflies," reports Barrie M. about Lake Olancha RV Park. This provides a welcome cooling option during hot summer months.
What campers like
Mountain views: The Eastern Sierra backdrop creates dramatic scenery from nearly all camping locations. "Amazing views of the mountains and the RV park is spacious with plenty of room to get your steps in," writes Julia M. The landscape particularly impresses at sunrise when campers experience "Incredible sunrise lighting up the Sierra," according to Beth M. at Goodale Creek Campground.
Creek sounds: Many sites feature natural water features that enhance the camping experience. At Portuguese Joe Campground, "The little stream is great for cooling off" according to Amanda R., while another reviewer notes "The creek sounds great!" These water features provide both practical benefits and ambient background noise for sleeping.
Proximity to attractions: Tuttle Creek Campground sits "Just a couple miles from the Alabama Hills," according to Rick L., making it convenient for exploring the area's famous rock formations. Sites are strategically positioned, with Leonard H. noting "Great views all directions... Most sites are very close to level."
What you should know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require preparation, especially at higher elevations. At Whitney Portal, "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 Jeff V.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Be sure to book at least 2-3 months out especially during the 'climbing' season for Whitney June-Sept," advises Alan B. First-come, first-served sites may be available at locations like Tuttle Creek, but weekends and holidays typically reach capacity.
Services limitations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The dump station is closed until May," notes Leonard H. about Tuttle Creek. Similarly, Jake N. reports that Boulder Creek's "dump station was no longer 'operational'" as of their visit, requiring campers to plan for waste management alternatives.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: Nelson Falls RV Park provides natural water features perfect for families. "There's a nice little creek/waterfall on site and pond," reports Cristina H. At Sequoia RV Ranch, families appreciate that "We had 2 families with 4 kids under 5 years old. They rode bikes, played in the river and ran around until they crashed every night," according to Amy S.
Wildlife education: The area offers chances to introduce children to wildlife observation. "Saw deer in and around the campground almost daily," notes Duane R. about Nelson Falls RV Park. Many campgrounds have resident birds, squirrels and marmots that children can safely observe from a distance.
Temperature planning: Significant temperature fluctuations affect family comfort. "It did get chilly at night, but as long as you bundle up in your tent, you'll be completely fine," advises Elise F. Summer daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F while nights can drop into the 40s, requiring both cooling strategies and warm clothing.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV sites throughout the Alabama Hills area vary in surface preparation. At Tuttle Creek Campground, "Most sites are very close to level. Packed dirt roads around campsites in good condition," reports Leonard H. This reduces setup time and stabilization requirements for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Full hookup RV sites near Alabama Hills are limited but available. "Large, had a store, clean spacious bathrooms, and good views!" according to Olivia K. about Boulder Creek RV Resort. For those seeking more privacy, Siesta Ranch offers "Only RV pad on a huge private land with fantastic views. The host is friendly and responsive," according to Abhilash.
Layout challenges: Some RV parks have unusual configurations requiring careful navigation. At Lake Olancha, "It's confusing to find the campsite. No signs directing you where to go. You have to drive behind the sites and pull through," warns Julie G. Additionally, "power and water are on the right instead of left" at this location, requiring adapter considerations for some RV setups.
