Camping near Big Creek, California ranges in elevation from 5,000 to 7,000 feet with seasonal temperatures that vary significantly between day and night. The area sits within Sierra National Forest and features granite outcroppings and pine forests that provide natural shade at many campsites. Water levels at nearby lakes and streams fluctuate throughout the camping season, typically highest in late spring and early summer.
What to do
Swim in natural pools: Near Whisky Falls Campground, the waterfall creates excellent swimming spots. "The waterfall is a short hike away, and there are plenty of trails to hike during the day, as well as dirt roads to explore," notes camper Kelli L. Whisky Falls offers dispersed camping with minimal facilities but maximum privacy.
Kayak on Huntington Lake: The waters at Deer Creek Campground provide calm morning paddling. "Kayaking is a must each morning before the winds kick in around 10am. The water is glass before that!" says Marianne H. The campground sits right on Huntington Lake with walking trails along the shoreline.
Soak in thermal waters: The natural hot springs near Mono Hot Springs Campground range in temperature from lukewarm to very hot. "There are several different pools located across the river from the campgrounds. They are all over the hillside and range in temperature from lukewarm to bath water to Hot," shares Mollie M., who appreciates that the springs are the main reason to camp in this remote location.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Dorabelle Campground, campers appreciate the natural spacing. "My campsite was large, clean, with sunny and shade spots and separated from other sites by trees," writes Margo A., who noted the campground is smaller with narrower one-way roads, but quiet at night with easy access to Shaver Lake businesses.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain their restrooms well despite remote locations. "Bathrooms were cleaned daily. No showers but that's what wet wipes are for," reports Brian B. about his stay at Dorabelle Campground, where he found the tables, fire rings and bear boxes all in great condition.
Lake access: The ability to walk directly to water is highly valued. At Sierra National Forest College Campground, "Able to walk right down to the lakefront" is highlighted by Austin C., who added, "We rented an aluminum boat for 4 hours one day for $60 and went out fishing on the lake. We boated to the island in the middle to picnic and have some lunch."
What you should know
Road conditions: The drive to Mono Hot Springs requires extreme caution. "The last 18 miles over Kaiser Pass took 1.5 hours. A sub-par road surface little bigger than one lane in many places made transit interesting," reports Chris M., who still rated the experience 5 stars. Call ranger stations for current conditions before attempting remote roads.
Bear safety: Bear-proof storage is provided at most established campgrounds. "I appreciated the space they provide at campsites to store food that are bear proof," mentions Maggie M. about Whisky Falls. Proper food storage is mandatory throughout the region.
Seasonal bugs: Yellow jackets can be problematic in late summer. "The yellow jackets. The hosts said it was quite unusual so I tried not to let it color the overall review, but damn! You would be sitting down trying to read and a few would fly around your head or land on your hands," reports Erin S. from Dinkey Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: For kid-friendly water play, Deer Creek Campground offers accessible shorelines. "We stayed in site 15 and it was very nice. Large site with plenty of room for trailer and two big tents. Very short walk down to Huntington Lake and was ideal for swimming with the kids," recommends Steven S.
Educational activities: During summer, some campgrounds offer organized nature programs. "Camp Edison has great activities during the summer season including guided educational nature walks, both day and evening, as well as kids' movies in the amphitheater," shares Angela D.
Site selection: Choose locations that balance privacy with amenities. "For those with capable vehicles, side trips to attractions like Doris lake is pretty, with several cliffs to jump from ranging all sizes," notes Chris M. about the area near Mono Hot Springs, making it worthwhile for families seeking varied activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check campground reviews for mentions of uneven sites. "The paved lots were so far from level that we didn't have enough leveling blocks. I am confident that these unlevel spots, G80 and G81, are the exception and not the norm," advises Doug from Dinkey Creek Campground.
Tight access roads: Many campgrounds have narrow entrance roads unsuitable for larger rigs. "Tight roads throughout the site, wouldn't recommend a large trailer," warns Erik H. about Dorabelle Campground. Call ahead to confirm your RV length can be accommodated.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Big Creek and Huntington Lake CA offer minimal or no hookups. Camp Edison at Shaver Lake is an exception, with one camper noting "Every site has power. The sites I saw were all dirt, not sure if they have nicer sites or not."
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