Best Campgrounds near Independence, CA
The Eastern Sierra landscape surrounding Independence, California features diverse camping opportunities ranging from established campgrounds to dispersed sites on public lands. Inyo National Forest manages several campgrounds in the area, including Grays Meadow and Onion Valley, both located within 10 miles of town along mountain roads. The Alabama Hills Recreation Area, approximately 15 miles south near Lone Pine, offers free dispersed camping among distinctive rock formations with views of Mount Whitney. These areas accommodate various camping styles from tent camping to RVs, with some sites providing amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while others offer more primitive experiences.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from late April through October, with specific opening dates dependent on snowmelt and road conditions. As one camper noted, "Grays Meadow was still open early November when others up the road were closed." Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, though services are limited. Many sites require bear-resistant food storage, with bear boxes provided at established campgrounds. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with AT&T generally providing better coverage than other carriers. Campers should be prepared for dramatic temperature swings, with daytime highs potentially reaching 90°F in summer while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations even in summer months.
Creekside sites receive particularly high ratings from visitors, with Independence Creek running through Grays Meadow Campground being a highlight. According to one reviewer, "Upper Section is covered by oak trees with willow-lined trout-filled Independence Creek right through campground." The area provides excellent access to trailheads, including the popular Kearsarge Pass trail from Onion Valley. Whitney Portal, though technically in Lone Pine, serves as a gateway to Mount Whitney and offers developed camping with amenities including drinking water and a small store. BLM land west of Independence provides free dispersed camping options with minimal facilities but offers solitude and flexibility for larger vehicles, with one visitor noting, "The area is clean and very quiet, zero shade and zero amenities."
