Best Tent Camping near Alabama Hills, CA
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Best Tent Sites Near Alabama Hills, CA (38)
1. Portagee Joe Campground
Lone Pine, California10 Reviews•24 Photos•50 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
2. Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground
Alabama Hills, California6 Reviews•11 Photos•52 SavesLocated in the Horseshoe Meadow Recreation Area this trailhead campground has 18 walk-in sites suitable for backpackers and hikers to use the night before they are going to hike into Golden Trout Wilderness via the Cottonwood Pass trail. Please self-register at Horseshoe Meadows Campground when you arrive. Sites include food storage boxes, tent pads, and tables, fire grates, piped water, and toilet facilities. One night stay limit. Horseshoe Meadow Area Campgrounds Guide (pdf)
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
3. Horseshoe Meadow Campground
Alabama Hills, California5 Reviews•5 Photos•74 SavesHorseshoe Meadow is a vast 10,000 foot high meadow, surrounded by lodgepole pine forest. Getting there is an adventure in itself; the road to Horseshoe Meadow climbs over 6,000 feet, as it winds its way up from Lone Pine. Three campgrounds are located in the Horseshoe Meadow Area. Trails from Horseshoe Meadow provide access to the Golden Trout Wilderness and Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park. The road to Horseshoe Meadow is closed from approximately November to May due to snow.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
$6 / night
4. Whitney Family Campground
Alabama Hills, California2 Reviews•2 Photos•15 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
5. Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park
Three Rivers, California8 Reviews•18 Photos•490 SavesOverview
The Mineral King area features the highest elevation campground in the parks. At 7,500 feet (2280 m), it is only open during the summer months. A narrow, winding, largely unpaved road leads to the area and its two campgrounds. RVs and trailers are not recommended on Mineral King Road and are not permitted in campgrounds. Mineral King is not connected to the rest of Sequoia National Park by roads.
Recreation
Trails to alpine lakes and mountain passes begin nearby.
Natural Features
Hikes into the backcountry out of Mineral King will give visitors an ever deeper understanding of the beauty and uniqueness of Sequoia National Park. Hike to alpine lakes and over mountain passes, or climb a peak.
Nearby Attractions
There are limited services at Silver City Resort, 2.5 miles (4 km) west of the campground.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (559) 565-4404.
Charges & Cancellations
Payment in full will be charged to your credit card upon completion of the reservation. A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Additional fees will apply for late cancellations If your campsite remains vacant for 24 hours after your arrival date it will be cancelled and made available on rec.gov.You will be charged for the first night's campsite fee and a $10 cancellation fee, all other fees after that will be refunded. Recreation.gov policies apply to all reservations, cancellations, refunds and date changes. Call (559) 565-4404 if you will be arriving 24 hours after your arrival date so your site won't be cancelled.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
- Firewood Available
$32 / night
6. Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
Alabama Hills, California2 Reviews•7 Photos•11 Saves- Fires
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
7. Symmes Creek
Seven Pines, California2 Reviews•4 Photos•66 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Alcohol
8. Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite
Alabama Hills, California1 Review•6 Photos•7 SavesLocated near Horseshoe Meadows, the Cottonwood Lakes Basin has many pristine alpine lakes and creeks located between Mount Langley and Cirque Peak. Side trails branch to Muir Lake, Hidden Lake, South Fork Lakes, Cirque Lake. Along the trail to New Army Pass are Long Lake and High Lake in the John Muir Wilderness. Climbing over New Army Pass the trail continues into Sequoia National Park and eventually joins the Pacific Crest Trail.
The Cottonwood Lakes are home to California's state fish, the Golden Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita).
Common Destinations: Cottonwood Lakes basin, New Army Pass, John Muir Trail, Mount Langley
Download area map for trail names https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5337644.pdf
Wilderness Permit Information (760) 873-2483
Historically, there has been a high level of bear activity in the Cottonwood Lakes area. From Memorial Day weekend through October 31, all food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers.
At the trailhead, all food, trash and scented items must be removed from vehicles and stored in the bear proof lockers that are located in parking areas. Dispose of trash in bear proof trash receptacles.
For more information about traveling in bear bear country, click here...https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/inyo/recreation/?cid=fsbdev3_003846
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Drinking Water
9. Lone Pine Lake - Inyo Wilderness
Alabama Hills, California1 Review•2 Photos•19 SavesWhile planning your wilderness trip, please note that activities like backpacking, hiking, skiing, mountaineering, and horse camping are allowed. Motorized or mechanical activities like drones or bicycles are not allowed in wilderness.
There are maintained trails through the area to hike on, but no developed campground facilities. Campsites are not assigned. Follow Leave No Trace principles when selecting a wilderness campsite. Groups are limited to 15 people or less, in order to preserve the solitude and tranquility of the backcountry. If you will travel into the neighboring national parks, you may be limited to a smaller group.
When you sign a permit as group leader you are agreeing to abide by all laws, rules and regulations that apply to the area and accept responsibility for your group to do likewise.
The first principle of Leave No Trace is to plan ahead and prepare. Learn the rules & regulations for the area you'll visit.
- Tents
10. Guitar Lake Backcountry — Sequoia National Park
Alabama Hills, California1 Review•28 Photos•27 SavesGuitar Lake is home to a primitive backcountry campground.
Drinking water is not provided and must be filtered from natural sources.
Bear canisters are required and all food must be stored in them at all times. It is also recommended that non-food items with any noticeable smell are also stored in the bear canister.
You are required to camp 100 feet away from any water source and/or trail. Do not set up camp on any vegetation.
- Tents
- Alcohol
Recent Tent Reviews in Alabama Hills
667 Reviews of 38 Alabama Hills Campgrounds
- J
Joseph Z.
Guide
Sunset Campground — Kings Canyon National Park
Amazing sunset
The name of the campground alone will let you know what to anticipate staying here. As far as views go they are phenomenal but people wise it gets busy.
- JJoseph Z.Guide
Big Meadow Campground - Us Forest Service Sequoia National Forest (CA)
Base camp Jennie lakes wilderness
I enjoy this site my spot was directly below the footbridge to head up to Weaver and Jennie lakes. Excellent brook trout fishing and feels off grid. Amazing rock formations near by and plenty of hiking for all levels in close vicinity.
- JJoseph Z.Guide
Horse Meadow Campground
Awesome location
If you like to be off the grid amidst the trees this is the place for you. We like to camp next to the creek. Fishing is plentiful and the air is great as long as there’s no fires near.
- Michell C.
Ranger
Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park
Tent/Car Camping Only
We planned on staying here in our little Toyota Motorhome but when we arrived, we saw a “Tent Only” sign. The camp looked very clean and there were restrooms available.
- KKevin T.Guide
Minietta Road
Ideal for the night
We pulled off on the closest part to the road which was quiet all night really. There were other parts further up.
- KKevin T.Guide
Forest Rd 14S29
Small site
We arrived just before dark, it’s quite a small site. Room for 4 vans max, ideal for 3. We used to chocks to level up as it’s pretty uneven in parts. But a great nights sleep, we had the place to ourselves
- MMike
Scout
Taboose Creek Campground
Easy access right off highway
Was going to stay at the truck stop overnight , till I opened up the dryt app and found this campground that was only 5 miles away. There was only 3 other campers there. Easy pay with kiosk pay station with credit card. There was also an artisan well for amazing water and a stream running thru camp
Thomas and James S.Guide
Creek Side Independence Dispersed 2
Breathtaking peace
Mountain side relatively flat dirt area to park. Has a sizable fire ring for the cold nights! Absolutely magical to sit next to the creek listening to the roaring waters! Much needed after the desert!
- EEdward R.Guide
Upper Sage Flat Campground
Quiet campground right by creek
We made an extra camping trip during Fall this year. We usually spend July up near Lee Vining, but we wanted to see what camping in October was like. Getting to Upper Sage isn’t tricky, it’s just very inconspicuous. You drive up Hwy 395 to a little town called Big Pine. It’s about 15 miles before Bishop. You turn left on a little residential street that takes you buy cute little homes of Big Pine. You’d swear you made the wrong turn. Then, you’ll continue on this worn little road for a few miles. It goes up quickly. Again, it seems you’re on the way to nowhere. After about 7 miles up, you’ll see the canyon with trees and campgrounds. It’s really pretty. Almost to the end of the road you’ll find Upper Sage Flat. We camped in sites 2 and 4. Both were real nice and next to the creek. The bathroom is close but not right next to your site. There’s only one bathroom so it’s nice to have it so close. As it turned out, there might have been 4 sites taken up, but that’s all. We had the place to ourselves. If you like to fish, the sites 14-19 are perfect. There are some beautiful hiking trails nearby, especially the Big Pine Creek Trail. The campground is paved, which is nice for bikes. Also, right up the street a little is Glacier Lodge, a place where you can rent little cottages. It’s old and looks worn, but it’s clean, looks taken care of, and they even have a little store. We only stayed for 3 days but they were wonderful. James the CG host was FANTASTIC! He pretty much doesn’t bother you and just asks you keep it clean and don’t get out of control. He was so nice we supported him by buying wood. He says he makes more with recyclables, so recycle when you’re there. All in all, we had a wonderful time and the CG was well worth it, in October at least. If you decide to do some Fall camping, Upper Sage Flats will not disappoint you.
- UUT801Ranger
Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park
Good access to Sequoia
Stayed in#2 which was largely shaded but sloped as are many sites. Recommend site#20 especially- next to river and large and level. Also site#17 and#22 were level and relatively shady/private. Flush toilets and sinks with potable water but no water taps. Has sewer dump adjacent.#21 and#23 were nice but not as level. Some road noise but not bad, Large rock formation to west means early sunset which keeps temps moderate.
Food aside: Ate breakfast scramble burritos (Mtn House or Readywise) with supplemental Costco Merlot cheese, chorizo, and Kinders wood fired garlic seasoning. Yum!
- UUT801Ranger
Three Rivers Hideaway
Convenient to Sequoia!
Stayed in van in tent space 52. Bathrooms had showers with hot water, clean. Had laundry but we didn't use. No real walking trails in the area but were able to go down to the river and there was a swimming hole,$40 for holiday weekend. Lady at front desk was nice and very helpful over the phone and in person- saved us a space even tho we didn't have reservation over memorial day weekend. Tent spaces were adjacent with little space between and around a large parking lot. Friendly, quiet.
Brittney J.
Traveler
Horse Creek Campground
Beautiful scenery, less amenities
We chose this campground to be an easy "getting back to camping" campground since it was supposed to be developed and even have showers.
Cons: The central restrooms/showers have been non-operational for over a year based on the maintenance log of the porta potty. While the porta potty was well maintained, there were no hand wash stations or anything to make up for the loss of sinks and showers. The tap outside the building didn't work and neither did the water fountain.
The host was not there for check-in. Thankfully, we ran into a very kind maintenance worker that gave us the predator rundown for the area and told us how to get to our site. The host eventually showed up, but was not there for at least 5 sets of campers who were trying to check in.
Nearly every campsite has a major hill, so most will not have a good flat area for a tent. Site 61 is flat and a couple of others have flatter grounds, but many will have you sleeping on an angle.
Cons Site 61: The previous group was very disrespectful of the site and left glass shards everywhere. We had to sweep it away from our tent site and kept finding more as we were using our site. It was especially a problem since we brought our dog, so eventually we just laid tarps out to let her walk on instead of the dirt for her safety.
No shade at all. While most other sites had trees or an aluminum awning to provide some sort of shade, Site 61 had nothing. Thankfully, we planned for that, but definitely worth mentioning for other campers. Most sites on the inside of the loop had good tree coverage, so if that's what you're looking for definitely book one of the inner loop sites like 63.
For those looking to be fully removed from the world, you should know this campsite is RIGHT off the highway, so there is traffic and some headlights if drivers have their brights on. That didn't bother us, but we've lived off of major streets for years, so we tune it out pretty well.
Pros: There was running water, but you had to find it near other campsites. (Closest one to ours was near Site 63, which was very convenient)
Pros Scenery: The stargazing is beautiful. There is some limited light pollution emanating from the other side of the foothills, but because you are surrounded by foothills you get some good, dark surroundings to really appreciate the stars. Similarly, the sunrise and sunset were slightly late/early because the sun was contending with the surrounding hills. When the sun was rising over the hills, there was a beautiful glow to them.
Pros Site 61: You have absolutely no neighbors, which gives you more privacy and the ability to face out in any direction and enjoy the scenery.
Predators: Coyotes, rattlesnakes, meat bees (bring cheap canned meat to set out during the day and they will leave you alone for the most part)
Cool Wildlife: Various birds, though I was never able to get a good enough look to identify them. There were also bats at night that really helped with the bug problem and created a cool ambience while stargazing. My husband loved listening to them hunt!
Overall: We enjoyed the site, but were extremely grateful that we are redundancy packers. If we didn't have our extras, we probably would not have had a good time since it was 100+ degrees every day we were there and the grounds weren't totally as advertised. (Toilets, showers, etc)
Rachele V.Traveler
Alabama Hills North
Amazing views!
2nd time at this spot and loved it! Rolled in after midnight and no one else was around.
- AAndy B.Scout
Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
Perfect.
This campsite was fantastic. Access was easy with a 4x4, but may be a little tough for a 2WD car. Plenty of space for a small trailer to maneuver.
Highly recommend. Perfect for an off-road trailer or overland setup.
- CCharlie W.Scout
Lone Pine
Lone Pine is beautiful
Beautiful views!
KateGuideEmigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park
free, quiet campground
no one else was there when we arrived later in the evening though we only camped for one night at the end of summer. no one else ever showed up either. just a few cars drove by every now and then. we were exhausted so we just opened a couple windows to the car rather than set up our tent. toilets were within walking distance/next to the parking lot but closed due to bees. port-a-potties were available instead. at night, the stars were absolutely beautiful. it was pretty hot but by opening the car windows and using some battery powered fans, we managed!
Lisa D.Traveler
Boulder Creek RV Resort
An Oasis on the 395
This park is in the middle of nowhere but a fabulous view of the Sierra Nevada's. I had a problem when I pulled into my site getting shore power from the electrical hook up. But I went to the office and I was moved immediately to a better site with a good hook up! Quiet, clean and well landscaped for the desert surroundings
Ian F.Guide
Sentinel Campground — Kings Canyon National Park
Kings Canyon NP - 9/24
Great spot and so much less crowded than Yosemite. Bathrooms are not so great
- TTaylor A.Guide
Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park
Just needed for a night
One night is all I spent here. It was much warmer climate than other areas of the park due to lower elevation. There’s a 6 mile hike starting from the campground that leads to some waterfalls. No camp host on duty and many campers breaking rules I.e. campfires fires during a burn ban, loud music throughout the campground, plugging a movie theater set-up using extension cords to the bathroom. Would have appreciated if it was better managed. The camp site itself was decent. Large enough for several tents.
Megan E.Ranger
Tuttle Creek Campground — Alabama Hills
Quick stay
Camped here before hiking Mount Whitney the following day. Think we got one of the only sites with a “tree,” but the grounds were well maintained and area was quite. Enjoyed camping here.
- Andrew P.Guide
Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
Quiet, remote, beautiful
I pulled in here looking for a campsite on my way up to mammoth. I was able to find a pretty dope spot surrounded by rocks, and nowhere near any other campers. I was legit, alone.
Great place to pull off and sit on a rock to watch the sun set over the mountains. Shade was minimal, but if you hide between the rocks like they do in that scene on the fire planet in Riddick you’ll be alright til it cools off.
- EElke S.Scout
Three Rivers Hideaway
Perfect campground near Sequoia
We were so happy that we found this spot in the evening, after we had a reservation for a different campground and were so disappointed. Here we found a nice spot under a tree. Everything was clean, good WiFi and access to the river.
- EElke S.Scout
Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park
Great spot to be off
Great campground as base for hikes or just to chill and enjoy the river. We had no cell reception - good to be really off for a little while. Only the restrooms where a little disgusting - experienced that differently in other NPs.
Cameron L.GuideCamping area No. 3 (dispersed)
Great Spot tucked off the road
We stopped here on our way through Sequoia Nat’l Forest and loved it. The water is super clear and nice! We were the only ones staying here, so it was very quiet and calming. A handful of camping spots around this area, well worth the stay!
- RRalph S.Traveler
Forest Rd 14S29
Good for a night
Quiet place on dirt, not really levelled but fine for a night and easily accessible with any car.
Leslie R.
Legend
Mt. Whitney Trail Camp
beautiful setting, but overcrowded and uncomfortable
I think the coordinates for this campground are off, it's located closer to 36.563093,-118.279422
We hiked Mt Whitney from the portal campground in two-days, with one overnight at trail camp. Even with the permit system, the campground was packed, it was hard to find a spot for our tents. We arrived to the campground around 4pm, so I would suggest starting the hike earlier (we started at 10am) if you want a better spot. Another downside of how many people go through the campground, was that it smelled like pee in a few areas, and I was very disappointed to see people had left trash and even wagbags.
The 360 view around the campground is magnificent, and it is breath-taking to see the sunset and sunrise. Don't expect to sleep much in-between though, because you're sleeping on rocks, and hikers start/finish at all hours on the trail that's a few yards away from many of the tent spots.
- Leslie R.Legend
Panamint Springs Resort
Great amenities, decent cabin
We stayed one night in Cabin #17. Because we visited off-season, we were one of only three cars parked in the cabin/camping area. The beds were comfortable and the air-conditioner kept the cabin cool while we slept. There were a LOT of bugs that got inside the cabin, which was somewhat unavoidable every time we openned the door.
The night we stayed was a new moon, so the dark sky views were INCREDIBLE. We saw the milky way with our bare eyes sitting on the porch of our cabin.
We arrived around 10pm at night, so the check-in desk was already closed. Fortunately, I had received the email with the late check-in instructions, and finding our cabin assignment was easy. I do wish getting some information in advance had been easier. I tried to call the front desk on our drive to the park, but no one answered. It wasn't entirely clear what amenities/facilties were open. For example, the website said breakfast available in one place, but in another place it said the only open was getting a breakfast burritio in their gas station. So we didn't know if we should pack extra food.
It did turn out that the restaraunt was still open, despite being off-season. It was pricey (totally fair, you're in the middle of a desert) but delicious, and friendly service. The staffer in the general store/gas station was also really friendly and gave great advice for which parts of the park to visit, and how to drive responsibily in the summer heat.
Finally, I think it goes without saying, but coming in July will be HOT. Plan to do activities like hiking early in the morning, and find some place by noon to stay in the air conditioning until evening.
Guide to Alabama Hills
Tent camping near Alabama Hills, California, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. With various campgrounds to choose from, you'll find the perfect spot to set up your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.
Local Activities to Enjoy
- Explore the breathtaking views and hiking trails at Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground, which is a great base for accessing nearby peaks.
- Take a short drive to Portagee Joe Campground for a peaceful night under the stars, with the sounds of a nearby creek enhancing your camping experience.
- Enjoy fishing and wildlife watching at Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite, where you might spot bighorn sheep and catch golden trout.
Tent Camping Prices
- Prices for tent camping can vary, with options like Symmes Creek offering a budget-friendly experience in a beautiful mountain setting.
- Expect to pay around $20 to $30 per night at well-reviewed spots like Whitney Family Campground, which provides essential amenities.
- For a more secluded experience, Guitar Lake Backcountry offers free camping, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Tips for Tent Camping Near Alabama Hills
- Bring a bear canister for food storage, especially when camping at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground, where bear activity is common.
- Arrive early to secure a spot at popular campgrounds like Horseshoe Meadow Campground, as they can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
- Make sure to check for water availability at campgrounds like Lone Pine Lake - Inyo Wilderness, as some sites may not have potable water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Alabama Hills, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Alabama Hills, CA is Portagee Joe Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Alabama Hills, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 38 tent camping locations near Alabama Hills, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.