Dispersed camping options near Big Pine, California provide alternatives to established campgrounds in the Eastern Sierra. The area sits at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments across multiple climate zones. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer days often reach 90°F in the valley.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Four Jeffrey Campground offers access to multiple lake trails. "Stick to the Stream... Easy access to South Lake and hiking - I recommend the Treasure Lakes. Wonderful!" notes James L.
Fishing in mountain streams: The Eastern Sierra waterways contain numerous fishing spots. "Our site was nice and private with a stream in back! It's up in Mountains so be prepared for the temperature change. Your not far some good fishing spots," explains Alan M. about his experience at Four Jeffrey.
Stargazing at high elevation: The minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "Look at ALL THE STARS! Try not to freeze to death. Enjoy the view! Try not get Altitude Sickness," advises Derek B. about camping at Whitney Portal.
What campers like
Natural hot springs access: Free alternatives exist beyond the developed pools. "If you want hot springs with peace and quiet just walking out the entrance to the free pools," mentions Marcus K. about Keoughs Hot Springs and Campground.
Secluded campsites: Many sites offer privacy despite popularity. "The sites were comfortable. We had a walk in site but it wasn't too far from the parking lot. The bathrooms impressively clean," reports Stephanie about Onion Valley.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife. "I was fortunate enough to see a Buck, multiple Doe, and a Bear. They get extremely close, and roam around your campsite so keep food and scented items in your Bear Box," warns Erick about Sabrina Campground.
What you should know
Elevation considerations: Many campgrounds sit at high altitudes requiring acclimation. "This campground sits above 9000 ft and you can drive there, park your car next to your site. It is a great basecamp for day hikes up into to higher altitude," explains Steve C. about Onion Valley.
Bear activity: Sage Flat Campground and surrounding areas have active wildlife. "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," cautions Jeff V.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "Whitney portal is exactly what a campground should be... It did get chilly at night, but as long as you bundle up in your tent, you'll be completely fine," shares Elise F.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Family-friendly glamping in Big Pine, California works best with proper facilities. "Great place to stay. Close to town(Bishop). Close to lots of lakes and tons to do and see. Very clean," recommends Deanna A. about Brown's Town.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain weather changes rapidly regardless of season. "During my stay, it's snowing at night with heavy wind, restroom far from my site," reports Sook C. about her experience at Sabrina Campground.
Look for stream-adjacent sites: Water features entertain children while providing natural white noise. "There is a creek that runs throughout the campground that provides perfect background noise. Even though the sites are pretty close to each other, we could not hear a neighbor once," explains Elise F.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Brown's Town offers various options for different needs. "Clean easy to get in sites. Water and electric sites with a dump station for when you leave. Bathrooms were very clean. Only complaint is that as a paying guest we still had to pay to dump ($5)," notes Paul C.
Consider site levelness: Some areas have uneven terrain. "We got #2c which is tiny and a little uneven. Nice shade throughout the campground," reports Marcus K. about Keoughs Hot Springs.
Reserve early for larger rigs: Premium glamping sites in Big Pine, California fill quickly. "Worth the road in, paved roads narrow in spots plenty of pull outs to let people by, on the creek camping clean and flat rv sights can handle big rigs," advises Randy W. about Big Trees Campground.
