Dispersed camping areas near Benton provide accessibility to the Eastern Sierra wilderness at elevations ranging from 5,000-8,000 feet. This high desert region experiences temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 80-96°F before cooling significantly after sunset. Volcanic formations and grassland ecosystems characterize many camping areas, offering unique geological features for exploration.
What to do
Fishing at sunrise or sunset: At Browns Owens River Campground, fishing opportunities are exceptional during early morning or evening hours. "We so enjoyed our time here. Fishing stream right in back of the RV. Incredible views," notes Patrick J., while Julie G. adds, "We stayed 2 nights, went fishing and had a blast. The river, fishing and view is gorgeous."
Hiking nearby trails: The area offers multiple hiking options within short driving distance. "Staff was very friendly... Located right next to the Brown's Owens River, with multiple gates to walk to the river and fish. Conveniently located next to hot springs, Hot Creek Geological Site, lakes, and ~15 minutes from downtown Mammoth," explains Kurt O.
Mountain biking opportunities: Several trail networks near Convict Lake Campground accommodate cyclists of various skill levels. "The lake is gorgeous and offers fishing, no wake boating sports, mountain biking and hiking trails," shares Alivia M., while Leonard H. notes, "Nice mostly level walk around lake. $35/night... $17.50 with Senior Pass."
Star photography sessions: The clear high-desert skies provide ideal conditions for astrophotography. "Was stoked to find this gem a short drive from Bishop. I drove in at night and the Milky Way was shining bright. Got some decent star shots," reports Jibran B. about Volcanic Tableland.
What campers like
Natural hot springs access: Wild Willy's Hot Springs offers soaking opportunities in thermal waters. "Quarter mile walk to the springs. Two different pools and very warm and clean! You can camp whenever you like," Jamie C. explains. Andy H. adds, "It has a nice maintained gravel road that ends in a large parking lot. Just before the parking lot is a pull out area with fire pits and space for multiple tents."
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas provide significant separation between campers. At Volcanic Tableland BLM Dispersed Camping, "Even though most spots were taken the weekend we stayed there, everyone is so spread out that you still have silence and privacy," notes Laura M. Jessica further comments that "Sites are spaced apart to where it feels like you're the only one in the area."
Creek access at campgrounds: Several sites feature running water that enhances the camping experience. At Tuff Campground, "The best feature of the park is the little stream that runs thru it. I saw a few people fishing but don't know if there's any fish in it," explains Berton M. Candice M. adds, "There's a creek (lower rock creek) that runs through the campground. Some people were fishing and we took a small hike on the rock formals east of the creek."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer chances to observe local fauna. "We set up our tents with a view of the hot springs," Alyssa L. shares about Crab Cooker Hotsprings, while another camper reports, "We woke up to deer come right into your camp site" at Convict Lake.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Throughout the day temperatures vary between 80 and 96°. But quickly went down around 4 PM writing this right now at 11 PM and it is about 65°," reports Seth B. at Browns Owens River Campground.
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Many areas require careful navigation. At Mono Lake South Dispersed, "The road into these spots is quite sandy and narrow in some places, but we did fine in our 26' Class C," explains Laura M. Another camper cautions, "Road going into the campsite can be tricky, with soft sand and fallen trees in the way. I was able to get in with a 2WD car but be careful if you do not have off roading experience."
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before your trip. At Volcanic Tableland, Steve L. warns, "Beautiful spot overlooking Bishop Valley framed by the Sierras and white mountains. NO FIRES." Laura M. adds, "The spots do have stone fire pits."
Water availability: Most dispersed sites require bringing your own water. "There are no amenities here so pack in and pack out and bring water," Laura M. notes about Mono Lake. For established campgrounds, Berton M. explains that at Tuff Campground, "Water is available along with pit toilets. There are no showers."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible fishing spots: Find places where children can fish safely. At Tuff Campground, Kuo G. reports, "Just past the drive is a nicely flowing riverish creek. It was about thigh deep and comfortably chilly. Great for fishing. We caught a total of about 6 trouts in one day."
Swimming opportunities: Several locations offer water recreation during summer. "Quite, clean friendly, deer come right into your camp site, creek runs behind majority of sites, great fishing, swimming, boating paddle boards," shares Lorrie about Convict Lake Campground.
Shade considerations: Plan for sun protection at exposed sites. At Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping, Jeffrey F. advises, "I found some nice trees to be in. Wasn't very busy even though it was the Fourth of July." Another camper notes, "Watch out if it's windy because there isn't much covering."
Wildlife precautions: Prepare for animal encounters, especially bears. "Beware of keeping foods in your vehicles as bears are commonly seen near the campsite," warns Keef W. about Convict Lake, while another camper mentions seeing "a bear cross the road" at Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Note operating hours limitations. "Generator hours till 10pm but thankfully only hear sounds of nature at 7pm," Leonard H. explains about Convict Lake Campground. Patrick J. adds about Browns Owens River Campground, "Most campers have a generator for power but it has to be turned off at 10pm."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require equipment for stability. Randel M. shares about Mono Lake South, "I spent a week here, making it worthwhile to unload the electric pop-up camper (w/ electric jacks) from my truck," while another RVer notes, "Approx. 1/2 sites close to level for 24' RV... 1/2 better suited for car/tent camping."
Cell service considerations: Reception varies by location and carrier. "The cell service here is AMAZING. We were spoiled and able to work from here without one glitch," James reports about Browns Owens River Campground, while Laura M. notes at Volcanic Tableland, "There is ok Verizon service, better ATT service, and T-Mobile alternated between roaming and no service."
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal needs. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early," advises Patrick J. about Mammoth Mountain RV Park, while another camper mentions "the free dump & water fill at the Speedway" in Bishop.
