Tent camping near Devils Postpile National Monument ranges from 7,500 to 10,000 feet elevation across the eastern Sierra Nevada range, creating distinctly different camping experiences based on altitude. Many sites in this region experience temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, even in summer months. Winter snowpack typically blocks access to most camping areas until late May or June, with some higher elevation sites not opening until July.
What to do
Alpine fishing opportunities: At Thousand Island Lake Backcountry, campers can fish in the lake after setting up camp. "The water is very cold but still feels great after a long hike all day," notes one camper who accessed the site via the John Muir Trail. The lake sits at 9,839 feet elevation and requires proper fishing permits.
Geothermal soaking: The Rock Tub Hot Springs area offers natural hot springs within walking distance of tent camping spots. "6 spots with fire pits and short walk to hot springs. Can get windy," reports a camper who enjoyed the therapeutic waters. The springs maintain consistent temperatures year-round, providing relief for hikers with sore muscles.
High country hiking: From the Vogelsang High Sierra Camp, tent campers can access multiple day hikes above 10,000 feet. "It was quiet, peaceful and ridiculously gorgeous! I could have stayed twice as long as we were there," mentions a camper who visited during off-season when cabins weren't available. The area requires a 7+ mile hike to access but rewards with high alpine terrain.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Campers at Upper Lyell Canyon Footbridge Backcountry Campsite frequently observe native wildlife. "Mule deer wandered inquisitively close as we relaxed. Pika whistled and darted from rock to rock. Ground squirrels scooted close in an effort to steal some tasty crumb if you turned your back," describes one backcountry camper. The area sits at approximately 9,000 feet elevation.
Spacious dispersed sites: The Scenic Loop area provides numerous options for tent camping with privacy. "There are over 100 campsites along this road all first come first serve. The PCT comes through this section of mammoth so there are, and I'm not kidding, hundreds upon hundreds of campsites," explains one regular visitor. Most sites along this route are undesignated but well-established.
Mountain vistas: Many tent campers cite the views as a primary draw. "Place was amazing. Perfect to watch a sunset, it overlooks the valley," notes a camper at Upper Lyell Canyon who discovered the site while hiking from Thousand Island Lake. Most backcountry sites require significant hiking but provide unobstructed views of the eastern Sierra range.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire rules vary significantly by location and season. At Obsidian Meadows Dispersed, one camper noted, "A few rock fire rings, but cannot be used when we were there." During high fire danger periods, typically July through October, most areas prohibit all flame sources including camp stoves without shutoff valves.
Access challenges: Many roads to tent camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "The road is maintained but requires high clearance. There are many sites on the way in and then 5 or 6 once at obsidian meadows trail head," reports a camper. Forest service roads often deteriorate after winter, with maintenance typically occurring in late June.
Elevation effects: Most tent camping sites sit above 8,000 feet, causing some visitors to experience altitude-related symptoms. "Every body deals differently with elevation. Some are unaffected until passing 12K feet, others experience headaches, sleeplessness and nausea at lower elevations," warns a backcountry camper. Acclimatization typically requires 24-48 hours for most visitors from lower elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Water source planning: When tent camping with children, reliable water access becomes crucial. At Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site, one camper advises, "Not a lot of tree cover so bring sunscreen!" The site overlooks Mono Lake but requires bringing all water supplies as no sources exist on-site.
Weather preparations: Temperature fluctuations require extra clothing and gear for children. "It was pretty windy when we went but still a lovely spot," notes a camper at Mono Basin. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, often developing rapidly between 1-3 pm.
Site selection strategy: With children, choosing sites with natural features can enhance the experience. "We camped on the northwest area of the Lake. Numerous hikers were there, some groups that hiked in for a day or two, others were thru-hikers," describes a Thousand Island Lake visitor. Sites with boulders, shallow water access, or natural clearings often work best for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most areas near Devils Postpile offer primitive camping without amenities. "Downsides: There are pit toilets, and they smell pretty bad, and the sites are really close together. There is no trash, no water & no reservations," reports a camper at Upper Deadman Campground. RVs must be self-contained with sufficient water and waste capacity.
Navigation challenges: Forest roads present obstacles for larger vehicles. "This site has limited turnarounds and would be challenging for motor homes over 24 feet and or trailers. Road is doable with a car but the grade sucks," warns a visitor to the Scenic Loop area. Many side roads become impassable for larger RVs after the first quarter-mile.
Overnight temperature planning: RVers should prepare for cold nights even in summer. "We camped here in July of this year and it was perfect! Close enough to town but out of the way enough to be quiet," notes a camper who used a four-wheel drive vehicle to access more remote sites. Overnight temperatures can drop into the 30s even in July and August.
