Best Campgrounds near Bishop, CA

Camping around Bishop, California ranges from developed sites to backcountry spots across varied terrain. Camp Edison provides hookups for electricity and water, which works well for RVers who want some comforts while camping. At Tuttle Creek Campground, campers get a more basic experience but wake up to mountain views that make the simpler facilities worthwhile. Fire rules are strict throughout the area all year - something to check before planning your trip. You'll want to book ahead in summer when campgrounds fill quickly, while spring and fall bring fewer crowds and better temperatures. Winter camping is possible but snow can block roads to higher campgrounds. Most camping areas have roads that any car can handle, though it's smart to check conditions before heading out. Many campers take day hikes through the unusual rock formations at Alabama Hills. The Owens River runs nearby with good trout fishing spots that draw anglers. Bears roam the area, so proper food storage is necessary at all campsites. Keep in mind that BLM land has a 14-day camping limit. Bishop town sits close by, making it easy to grab ice, food, or anything else you forgot to pack. The Bishop area works for pretty much any camping style you prefer.

Best Camping Sites Near Bishop, California (230)

    1. Grandview Campground

    24 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2500

    "Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is close by or take a drive down to the old mining area, but I would suggest a four wheel drive, mountain bike or good hiking shoes drive for this."

    "With amazing views of the Sierra Nevadas, and lots of exploration potential in the Inyos, this is a wonderfully situated campground."

    2. Pleasant Valley Campground

    15 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-5577

    $14 - $108 / night

    "There is Pleasant Valley Campground, and if you cross the street and drive a little bit in you can get to Pleasant Valley Pit. This place has no shade, no trees, but amazing view of the Sierras."

    "Very quiet night for sleeping with the sound of a creek running behind our camper."

    3. Volcanic Tableland BLM Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    "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."

    "We wanted something near Bishop. Hardly anyone around, but other vans helped us know we were in the right place. A bit windy and cold though!"

    4. Highlands RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-7616

    $41 - $45 / night

    "This location is very clean, close to town with full hook ups. Staff was very friendly! It is right next to a pretty noisy road but I think it's a good stop for the night 👍"

    "They offer many pull through spots and the back-in ones are located along the permitter of the park. A nice green area for your kids or dogs to explore. They even have a small pond out front."

    5. Pleasant Valley Pit Campground

    8 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    6 miles
    Website

    $5 / night

    "Straight forward camp sites right outside of bishop, easy access for climbing at Owens river gorge, or saying for skiing at mammoth below the snow line. Only $5 a night"

    "Everytime I go to Bishop, I stay here!"

    6. Brown’s Town

    6 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-8522

    $27 - $32 / night

    "Close To town(Bishop). Close to lots of lakes and tons to do and see. Very clean,"

    "Number 2, Bishop is a nice little town with AMAZING food spots, so you will want a little time to check those out."

    7. Big Pine Creek Campground

    17 Reviews
    Big Pine, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 935-4339

    $26 / night

    "However, next to Big Pine Creek Campground is Glacier Lodge (they share the same entrance road and is privately owned)…and they will rent you a shower for $5/5 minutes."

    "Wood was about $1-2 per bundle more expensive than other National Forest sites we've been in & the nearby town."

    8. McGee Creek

    6 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    7 miles

    "We camped right next to the stream and stayed one night and it was peaceful and far away from any highway."

    "Road was closed so we walked the half mile or so in. Beautiful spot!"

    9. Brown's Millpond Campground

    5 Reviews
    Bishop, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-5342

    "The Browns Millpond campsite was a last minute trip to Bishop. The campsite was small for tent campers and had hookups for RV's. The camp had showers, toilets and even a fish cleaning station."

    "The campground is near a county park with a small lake . This is a great home base to explore the area, Toms place,Rock creek,Convict Lake, Mammoth and the June Lake loop are within 45 min."

    10. Keoughs Hot Springs and Campground

    6 Reviews
    Big Pine, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-4670

    "If you want hot springs with peace and quiet just walking out the entrance to the free pools. The pool in the campground also has a snack bar. Very friendly folks here."

    "Camp sites are pretty close together but all places seem to be around here."

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Showing results 1-10 of 230 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Bishop, CA

815 Reviews of 230 Bishop Campgrounds



Guide to Bishop

Camping near Bishop, California, offers a fantastic mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into hiking, stargazing, or just soaking up nature, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Alabama Hills Recreation Area. One camper mentioned, "Absolutely love this spot! Very cool rock formations all around you. Nice short trail nearby that takes you by a stream."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for incredible stargazing opportunities. A visitor at Tuttle Creek Campground noted, "Great dark skies for stargazing and photography."
  • Fishing: Head to June Lake Campground for some fishing fun. One reviewer said, "The lake was beautiful and the campground was nice with very close water spigots."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views. A review for Whitney Portal states, "The trees against the rocks and blue sky is gorgeous every time you look up."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Grandview Campground shared, "It was so quiet and peaceful here and the night skies and sunsets are beautiful."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One camper at Azalea Campground mentioned, "Deer pass by your camper in the morning."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Tuttle Creek Campground, do not have drinking water or showers. A reviewer noted, "No showers or drinking water. Near Lone Pine, just off Whitney Portal Road."
  • Crowded in Peak Season: Some spots can get busy, especially during summer. A visitor at Lodgepole Campground mentioned, "It does get very crowded."
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for bumpy roads in some areas. One camper at Alabama Hills Recreation Area warned, "Use caution when traversing though the area to find a site if you have a normal sedan or normal vehicle height."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Camp Edison, which is described as "huge, well maintained and just wonderful" by a family camper.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. A reviewer at Hume Lake Campground said, "The spots near the lake went quickly but there were a few lovely spots to hang a hammock that were stunning."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. One camper at June Lake Campground mentioned, "Mind the chipmunks though, they ripped through our air mattress and our stasher bag full of trail mix."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Lodgepole Campground noted, "Some of the sites are a bit close together."
  • Bring Extra Water: Since many campgrounds lack water hookups, it's smart to bring your own. A camper at Grandview Campground advised, "Pack out your own trash (no bins), no water spigots (bring your own)."
  • Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Weather can shift quickly. A camper at Whitney Portal shared, "COLD and snow flurries, but still such a memorable and great experience."

Camping near Bishop, California, is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique experiences this area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Bishop, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Bishop, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 230 campgrounds and RV parks near Bishop, CA and 52 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Bishop, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bishop, CA is Grandview Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bishop, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 52 free dispersed camping spots near Bishop, CA.

What parks are near Bishop, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Bishop, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.