Camping near Bishop, California offers access to high Sierra terrain at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts between seasons, with summer highs averaging 95°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds open April through October, though some valley locations maintain year-round access when mountain sites close due to snow.
What to do
Fishing at Bishop Creek: Campers staying at Four Jeffrey Campground have easy access to multiple fishing spots within a 15-minute drive. "Your not far some good fishing spots. Overall a nice site and we will for sure be going back," notes Alan M. The campground's proximity to South Lake and Lake Sabrina makes it convenient for anglers.
Hot spring soaking: Natural hot springs provide relaxation opportunities near Bishop. "If you want hot springs with peace and quiet just walking out the entrance to the free pools," suggests marcus K. about his experience at Keoughs Hot Springs and Campground. Day passes cost $10 for campers and give access to mineral pools that reach 104°F.
Creek exploration: Many campgrounds feature creek access for cooling off during hot days. At Tuff Campground, the creek offers recreational opportunities. "It was about thigh deep and comfortably chilly. Great for fishing. We caught a total of about 6 trouts in one day," shares Kuo G.
What campers like
Mountain views: The scenery surrounding Bishop provides a dramatic backdrop for camping experiences. "We woke up to a beautiful 360degree Mountain View!" reports Brodie D. about his stay at Highlands RV Park. The Eastern Sierra landscape creates a striking setting for both tent and RV camping.
Proximity to hiking trails: Access to trails ranks high among camper priorities. "Great campground with clean restrooms and several sites shaded by the tall Jeffrey Pines. Creek runs along the edge of the campground," notes LJ S. about Big Trees Campground, highlighting how natural features enhance glamping in Bishop, California.
Shade trees: Summer temperatures often necessitate shade for comfortable camping. "There is a creek that runs behind the camp and the fall leaves were beautiful. Some of the sites are right along the road underneath some telephone lines but the majority are beautiful and quite private," observes preston about his experience at Sabrina Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most higher-elevation sites close during winter months. "Only few site for medium size rv. Enjoy the hot pool with giant jet. We will come back here," shares Ioan P. about Keough hot sping, noting the limited availability of certain sites.
Reservation requirements: While some campgrounds allow reservations, others operate on a first-come basis. "Stayed here on 4th of July weekend and was able to find a first come first serve spot. A lot of the spots don't have much shade but there are some that do have shade," explains Troy M. about his Four Jeffrey experience.
Fee structures: Costs vary significantly between campgrounds. "Great place to stay. $35 for water and power hook ups; $30 for no hook ups/tent; $2 showers; $5 guest dump; $15 non guest (dump hours 8-4:30)," details Sarah R. about Brown's Town.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some facilities offer kid-friendly amenities. "Great place for kids with playground, western town and store with ice cream and beers," notes Paul C. about his Brown's Town experience, making it suitable for luxury glamping in Bishop, California with children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance family camping experiences. "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 and you won't have trouble," advises Erick about Sabrina Campground.
Creek play spots: Shallow water areas provide natural entertainment. "Down the drive way from her camp, we noticed her speeding down the roads through camp to our camp to talk to us about the speed... while yelling at a couple of 10 year olds to stop fishing in the creek next to campgrounds in the dark," recounts Kuo G., inadvertently highlighting that creek access is popular with children at Tuff Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between sites. "$40 for site with power and water, $35 without. $10 hot spring/pool entry per a person for camping guests," explains Trent B. about Keoughs Hot Springs and Campground.
Site leveling considerations: Some areas require additional preparation. "Sites are super clean, paved, and extremely level. Full hookups! 30/50 amp," reports Brodie D. about Highlands RV Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer onsite dump facilities. "Only complaint is that as a paying guest we still had to pay to dump ($5) and showers are $2/7mins," notes Paul C. about Brown's Town, information valuable for extended RV stays.
