Best Campgrounds near Independence, CA

Join the fun near Independence. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Independence, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Discover great camping spots near Independence, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Independence, California (199)

    1. Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    87 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    "You can see Mount Whitney in the distance. 4 wheel drive isn’t required but definitely recommend. No bathrooms or water around. A lot of old movies were filmed in the hills."

    "Small town of Lone Pine- there isn't much going on, but some good restaurants- TX bbq, Totem Cafe, etc., friendly locals,Jake's Saloon and accessible to Bishop, Independence."

    2. Tuttle Creek Campground — Alabama Hills

    41 Reviews
    Alabama Hills, CA
    19 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "Near Lone Pine, just off Whitney Portal Road, adjacent to Alabama Hills, so lots of exploring opportunities! Great dark skies for stargazing and photography."

    "Right in the middle of many trails and sites to see, not to mention a quick skip away from Lone Pine."

    3. Whitney Portal

    28 Reviews
    Alabama Hills, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 937-6070

    $34 - $95 / night

    "Really secluded surrounded by trees, close to bathroom and water faucet. The bathrooms are clean and have toilet paper. Right next to a river, where the sound relaxes you."

    "Lone Pine Lake is your first option, about 2.8 miles from the trailhead at Whitney Portal. This is a beautiful little lake, surrounded by pines and imposing granite walls."

    4. Grays Meadows

    8 Reviews
    Seven Pines, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 937-6070

    $34 / night

    "Upper Section is covered by oak trees with willow lined trout filled Independence Creek right through campground. Site 9 barely enough room for our two tents."

    "Very private with large growth around us. We soon realized we were missing the gorgeous valley view and incoming thunder storm so we packed up and moved our RV up the hill to the upper campground."

    5. Onion Valley

    8 Reviews
    Seven Pines, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 937-6070

    $31 / night

    "Onion Valley is a beautiful spot tucked into the eastern Sierra above Independence. It’s a windy but not long drive back down to town.

    The sites were comfortable."

    "There are pull in sites and walk in sites. All pull in sites seem to be surround by low growing shrubs and they have so many mosquitoes. The walk in site are under the conifers and are gorgeous."

    6. Lone Pine

    14 Reviews
    Alabama Hills, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 937-6070

    $34 - $81 / night

    "It is also very close to the town of Lone Pine, which has a little market and several restaurants in case you accidentally forget anything or don’t bring enough food.

    The views of Mt."

    "We camped at one of the walk-in sites. Enough space for the 4 of us, 2 tents, and the family pup. The parking spots are only 50 yds away and next to the restrooms."

    7. Goodale Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Independence, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    $5 / night

    "Some have water dripping on trees and there were many wasps around them (16,18). Site 12 is primo. The campers at the sites near the entrance were noisy but it was much quieter on the east end."

    "Over all such a perfect spot to stay away from a crowded campsite & for a fraction of the cost."

    8. Inyo / Lower Grays Meadow Campground

    3 Reviews
    Seven Pines, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 876-6200

    $25 / night

    "Nice spaced out sites with trees for shade. 6 miles up the road from Independence. This campground was still open early Nov when others up the road were closed. Very attractive."

    "Beautiful small campground at the foot of the mountains, easily accessed from the small town of Independence and about 45 min drive north to Bishop.  "

    9. Symmes Creek

    2 Reviews
    Seven Pines, CA
    7 miles
    Website

    "Not that busy only had some construction vehicles driving by in the morning they are doing some construction up here currently"

    "The dirt road dead ends at a large spot with easy turn around. There are off shoots of the main road to other camp spots, but we didn’t venture down to any of those."

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Showing results 1-10 of 199 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Independence, CA

922 Reviews of 199 Independence Campgrounds



Guide to Independence

Camping near Independence, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventurous base for hiking, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the nearby trails, especially around the 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 this region make it perfect for stargazing. A visitor at Tuttle Creek Campground noted, "Great dark skies for stargazing and photography."
  • Exploring: Check out the unique rock formations and landscapes. One reviewer said, "The views were amazing and there were plenty of trails around to go explore the unique terrain!" at Tuttle Creek Campground.

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. One camper at Grandview Campground shared, "It’s so quiet and peaceful here and the night skies and sunsets are beautiful."
  • Accessibility: Campgrounds like Lodgepole Campground are conveniently located near popular hiking trails, making it easy to explore the area.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, such as Tuttle Creek Campground, do not have drinking water or showers. A visitor mentioned, "No showers or drinking water. Near Lone Pine, just off Whitney Portal Road."
  • Crowded in Peak Season: Some areas can get busy, especially during summer. A camper at Lodgepole Campground noted, "Some of the sites are a bit close together and it does get very crowded."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at Whitney Portal mentioned, "Saw fresh bear scat near our site, but never saw any bears."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Potwisha Campground, which has a swimming hole and is close to trails. A reviewer said, "This campground is very basic. It is very close to town as it's the first campground in the Sequoia Park."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned, like hiking or swimming. One camper at Hume Lake Campground shared, "The lake is beautiful and absolutely worth dipping into!"
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A visitor at Big Pine Creek Campground mentioned, "The campground also has a small fishing pond for kids."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow or steep roads. A reviewer at Grandview Campground noted, "It’s a bit difficult to get to (about 25 miles going up 4,000 feet)."
  • Look for Amenities: Campgrounds like Stovepipe Wells offer basic amenities like a dump station and water fill. One camper said, "It serves its purpose as a place to stay near the dunes."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many areas have poor reception. A visitor at Tuttle Creek Campground mentioned, "No cell coverage for T-Mobile, but I used my WeeBoost and got two bars."

Camping in Independence, CA, provides a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. With stunning views, diverse activities, and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Independence, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Independence, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 199 campgrounds and RV parks near Independence, CA and 48 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Independence, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Independence, CA is Alabama Hills Recreation Area with a 4.7-star rating from 87 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 48 free dispersed camping spots near Independence, CA.

What parks are near Independence, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Independence, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.