Dispersed camping options near Big Pine, California extend beyond established campgrounds into Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands where campers can find solitude. The area sits at elevations between 4,000 and 9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations from season to season. Fall typically offers ideal camping conditions with daytime temperatures in the 70s and nighttime lows in the 40s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The area features stocked fishing ponds and creek-side angling spots at several campgrounds. At Baker Creek Campground, visitors enjoy both pond and stream fishing. "You could tell it has been stocked at the amount of fish that were super easy catching on the fly rod," notes one camper at Baker Creek.
Explore ancient trees: Take a day trip to Grandview Campground as a base for visiting the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. "You have to do the Methuselah hike. It's short and there's not a lot of elevation gain but I did it on the first day at altitude so it was more challenging than expected," advises one visitor.
Stargazing sessions: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create exceptional stargazing opportunities. A Grandview camper describes the night sky as having "a bazillion stars" while another says it looks "like the angels kicked over multiple bottles of glitter."
Mountain biking access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to trail systems. Riders can explore service roads around campgrounds for easier riding or connect to more challenging trails. One camper at Grandview mentioned "riding our bikes on the service roads around the campground" as a highlight of their stay.
What campers like
Creek-side sites: The sound of flowing water consistently ranks as a top feature. At Upper Sage Flat Campground, sites 16-19 offer direct creek access. One camper noted, "Sites 16-19 all had good water access, and I'm pretty sure a lot of the sites in the upper loop could access the river too."
Temperature relief: Higher elevation campgrounds provide escape from summer valley heat. A camper at Upper Sage Flat observed: "It was mid July and 105 degrees in Big Pine when we left the 395 highway, but temps had dropped to 88 by the time we got up to the campground due to elevation change."
Small, uncrowded campgrounds: Many visitors appreciate the intimate size of campgrounds in the area. One camper at Willow Campground notes it's "for those that love being deep in the woods and away from people" with "small and very woodsy" sites that have "plenty of distance and privacy between other sites."
Natural hot springs: Thermal features provide unique relaxation opportunities. Keoughs Hot Springs and Campground offers mineral pools that campers praise. One visitor mentioned that the "warm mineral water pool leaves your skin feeling amazing."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating steep, narrow roads. The drive to Upper Sage Flat "is steep, narrow, and climbs almost 3500 feet over the course of 7 miles" with "no guard rails," according to one camper who advised to "make sure you have solid brakes for the way down."
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds have vault toilets only. At Volcanic Tableland BLM Dispersed Camping, there are "no amenities here so pack in and pack out and bring water." However, a camper noted "decent cell reception for ATT and Verizon, not great, but usable."
Seasonal closures: Higher elevation campgrounds typically close during winter months. Check current status before planning trips, especially in shoulder seasons when weather can be unpredictable.
Wildlife presence: Campers should practice bear safety protocols. One visitor at Willow Campground noted "signage inside the vault stating the area is bear territory, and we needed to be bear aware."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: Several campgrounds offer easily accessible fishing opportunities perfect for children. At Big Pine Creek Campground, "there's a small trout pond for the kids" that gets positive reviews from families.
Altitude considerations: Families should plan for gradual acclimatization. A Grandview visitor advised: "We spent a few nights and days here while getting acclimated to decreased oxygen content at higher altitudes. Remember, you will be at approximately 8000 feet above sea level and the air is thinner up here. Plan your activities accordingly."
Educational opportunities: The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest offers ranger-led programs during summer months. A visitor recommends "listening to the ranger's talks at 11 and 2pm" when visiting the forest from Grandview Campground.
Protected swimming areas: Creeks provide natural water play areas. At Baker Creek, families can enjoy shallow creek sections while supervised. Look for wider, slower sections of creek for safer water access.
Tips from RVers
Tight access roads: RV accessibility varies significantly between campgrounds. One Upper Sage Flat camper with a 30-foot Class A motorhome reported: "The drive up the mountain was pretty scary! We have a 30 ft A-class and I was scared I wasn't going to make it. Steep windy drive and no guard rails."
Site selection research: Use satellite imagery to evaluate potential sites. A camper advised: "Strongly recommend using Google Earth to check the site you're reserving" at Upper Sage Flat, noting that roadside sites are "HOT AS BLAZES" with "almost no shade" while creek-side sites offer much more comfort.
Unlevel parking: Many campsites require leveling equipment. At Goodale Creek Campground, "sites are far western end were really nice" according to one RVer, though across the area, uneven parking pads are common.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management before arrival. A visitor noted the "free dump & water fill at the Speedway at the other end of town is really nice" when discussing services near Bishop and the Volcanic Tableland area.
