Camping near Inyo National Forest

The camping areas throughout Inyo National Forest range from established campgrounds to open spaces for dispersed camping. Lundy Canyon Campground works well for campers who want basic facilities in a managed setting. For those who prefer more privacy, the forest permits dispersed camping away from developed areas. Hiking trails crisscross the forest, giving campers plenty of chances to walk through the mountains and valleys. Many people come to fish at places like Convict Lake Campground, which has good access to the water. The best camping weather happens during spring and fall when temperatures stay comfortable and the trees change colors. Summer can get quite hot, so bring extra water and sun protection. Winter camping exists for the hardy, though snow blocks many forest roads. You should make reservations for the busier campgrounds, particularly from late spring through early fall. Book at least a few months ahead for summer weekends to get a spot. The forest often limits campfires depending on conditions, so check current rules before arriving. Mammoth Lakes sits close by with grocery stores, restaurants, and gear shops. Most campers find that Inyo National Forest gives them the outdoor experience they want, whether that's active or laid-back. Always pack out what you pack in to keep the forest clean. The combination of mountains, lakes, and forests makes Inyo worth the trip for most campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Inyo National Forest (335)

    1. Convict Lake Campground

    18 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 924-5771

    $35 / night

    "My husband and I have been camping at Convict Lake for many years. He and his family have gone to opening day of fishing in the freezing cold for MANY years."

    "It’s just a short drive from the highway and Mammoth Airport. The campground is very popular with a mix of reserved and non reserved sites."

    2. Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground

    19 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 934-3822

    $35 - $80 / night

    "Walking distance to town. Great walking paths. Choose to camp under the shade of the pines on a dirt pad or in the clean, parking lot style section. This place never lets us down."

    "This was during the California wildfires. I would recommend this RV park/campground they have ample space for both. Every site has a bear box."

    3. Sherwin Creek

    12 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    3 miles
    Website

    $32 / night

    "Every August my family and friends meet at Sherwin Creek Campground around the time of the Perseids meteor shower."

    "This campground is just outside the main part of Mammoth Lakes, CA. You have to go on a paved then gravel road to get there."

    4. June Lake Campground

    26 Reviews
    June Lake, CA
    15 miles
    Website

    $32 / night

    "We really enjoyed June Lake Campground! Stayed there for one night on our way out of Yosemite. The drive around the lake is beautiful and there are multiple camping areas."

    "We were really tucked away from neighbors and were very close to the lake and bathrooms. We went in August and it was perfect weather, warm days and cool nights."

    5. Coldwater Campground

    13 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    7 miles

    $33 / night

    "CAMPGROUND REVIEW: Coldwater Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA A beautiful 77 site campground nestled in at over 9,000 ft in the Inyo National Forest of the Eastern Sierras."

    "It wasn’t too close to other sites, although you could see them. We loved having the creek across the road. The campground has nice access to hiking trails, and Lake Mary."

    6. Twin Lakes Campground

    13 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 934-5795

    $34 / night

    "Twin lakes is Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. Upper and lower twin lakes are a fantasic place to set up base camp and explore the sierras."

    "Twin Lakes and all of the surrounding Mammoth area is gorgeous. You'll have plenty of hikes to choose from, go fishing, or hit the slopes (biking during the summer and snowsports in the winter)."

    7. Crab Cooker Hotsprings - Dispersed Camping

    11 Reviews
    Inyo National Forest, CA
    4 miles
    Website

    "Views on the other are rolling fields / foothills with lots of cutie vocal Moo Moos and Alkali Lake! You can see other hot springs in the distance. No shade. Lots of flies and red ants."

    "Needless to say we had the hot springs to ourselves the majority of the trip, parking at the edge of the dirt road with only one other car in sight , which I was told was super lucky."

    8. Inyo National Forest Oh Ridge Campground

    24 Reviews
    June Lake, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 648-7744

    $38 / night

    "I had always wanted to camp in the Inyo national forest. Oh ridge was on my list and I was able to finally make the trip. It was a hefty drive from the Central Valley but the views were stunning."

    "Easy access to purchasable firewood, Bear Boxes at every site, well kept bathrooms with flush toilets and sinks, wind guards at some sites, near a lake, amazing starry night sky, general store nearby"

    9. Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 924-5500

    "GREAT SPOT. so so close to the mountain."

    "Super close to the town of Mammoth too."

    10. Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    June Lake, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2400

    "We boondocked in Inyo National Forest just last weekend, September 27-29, and it felt like we had the place to ourselves."

    "Great access to mount Whitney trails and close to lone pine in case you gotta restock."

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Recent Reviews near Inyo National Forest

1453 Reviews of 335 Inyo National Forest Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed

    Quiet Spot Near Hot Springs

    There are No Camping signs posted at the road and farther up toward the hot springs. We did end up staying here one night with our pop-up camper, because it was late when we finally arrived. There was a little pull out loop that had a camper van and another truck camper already parked and camping when we got there. There was plenty of room to be able to pull in and park in that area as well. It’s very dusty/sandy in this area. The hot springs were a 5 min drive from this spot. There are really no facilities here! There is one vault toilet down by the hot springs, but it was pretty rough. There are no trash cans around, it is a pack it in, pack it out area, please be prepared to clean up after yourselves and remove your trash. I did clean up some remnants of others trash, but for the most part it was pretty well kept. Although it says no camping, this was a decent overnight spot with beautiful views and it was pretty awesome to be able to wake up and soak in the hot springs on a chilly morning!

  • Michelle R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Volcanic Tableland BLM Dispersed Camping

    Few spots with fire rings

    The road in is very rutted. I noticed a few campsites that had fire rings but those were taken. I kept driving until I found a pull off. I’m only staying overnight.

  • April B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Glass Creek

    Crabby Host

    The campground itself is very nice and clean.

    The host basically demanded that we pay the ten dollar donation (which we had planned to do), so it's not a free place to camp. Then he complained because we were in a double site. There wasn't any indication that it was a double site, and the campground was basically empty, so we weren't keeping anyone from the site. We gladly would have moved if someone wanted it!

  • Laura The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Mill Creek National Forest

    Beautiful and quiet spot close to Mono Lake

    Not gonna lie, I was skeptical at first. GPS took me to the wrong (dirt) road, it was getting dark and stormy... Eventually stormed passed and I got a clear moonlight and could hear the gurgle of the river a few meters away. Best reward was in the morning... Wow! ♥️ A nice spot for those just leaving Yosemite or about to go into it.

    The road is not great, drive slowly

    PS: I found a tote bag (see pic) where I was, if it's yours hit me up!!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Big Trees Campground

    Secluded clean

    Worth the road in,paved roads narrow in spots plenty of pull outs to let people by , on the creek camping clean and flat rv sights can handle big rigs

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Great Campsite

    This site is just about four minutes away from Yosemite entrance. We stayed here two nights. The sites are really spread out, which is super nice!

    Unfortunately, we did find a lot of toilet paper and human waste.

    There were also a lot of ground bee nests. Our dogs pretty much all got stung when they were running around the campsite.

    The road around the campground is super bumpy and it was a little challenging to find a level spot. But there were enough areas to find something level to sleep on.

    We really enjoyed our stay here, though! The spots are nestled in the trees with a lot of privacy and separation from other campers. We were able to let our dogs off and run around, which was a huge plus. Great place to camp!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking

    Amazing Open Campground In The Forest

    We loved camping here. There were great campsites with bear lockers along a really nice little creek. Fantastic location for dogs. Lots of space to walk the dogs. Campground is quiet. No cell service but our Starlink worked great.

  • Sandie F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    McGee Creek

    Good spot but crowded

    Seemed like everyone came to tuck into this spot and I got here very late so it was not fun. Beautiful spot with beautiful views

  • Rhonda S.
    Sep. 26, 2025

    French Camp Campground

    Great natural area

    Very weather dependent area. Nice breeze and most sites have full sun. Sites are paved, no hook ups at all, you can use a generator in 2 of the 3 loops. Bath houses are just cold water but clean.


Guide to Inyo National Forest

Camping near Inyo National Forest, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just soaking up the scenery, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around the campgrounds. Many campers rave about the easy access to trailheads. One reviewer at Tuolumne Meadows Campground mentioned, "Great camp experience with trail heads outside your door."
  • Fishing: Convict Lake is a popular spot for anglers. A camper shared, "Fantastic fishing. The fall colors were outstanding," highlighting the lake's beauty and fishing opportunities.
  • Relaxing by the water: Many campgrounds are near lakes or streams. A reviewer at Silver Lake Campground at June Lake noted, "The campground was nice, the spaces were separated, we tent camped," emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere.

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers appreciate the breathtaking landscapes. One visitor at June Lake Campground said, "Spectacular views from the right spot."
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain clean restrooms and amenities. A reviewer at Coldwater Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were the best I’ve seen camping before."
  • Friendly hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. A camper at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground noted, "Staff was pretty accommodating."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lundy Canyon Campground, have few amenities. A visitor mentioned, "Very quiet. Very beautiful," but also noted the lack of facilities.
  • Wildlife precautions: Bears are a concern in the area. A camper at Coldwater Campground advised, "Use the bear boxes. USE. THE. BEAR BOXES."
  • Crowded during peak season: Expect busy campgrounds in summer. A reviewer at Convict Lake Campground shared, "We arrived just after 4pm so plenty of spots to choose from," indicating the importance of arriving early.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family comfort. A reviewer at Sherwin Creek mentioned, "Very nice sites with dense forest. Lots of shade and hammock trees."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games or outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A camper at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground noted, "Great E Bike riding area," suggesting fun options for families.
  • Pack extra layers: Nights can get chilly. A visitor at Lundy Canyon Campground warned, "We were FREEZING!" so be prepared for temperature drops.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some RV sites can be tight. A reviewer at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground mentioned, "The sites are parking lot like. All asphalt."
  • Arrive early for best spots: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. A camper at June Lake Campground advised, "Book in advance!" to secure a good site.
  • Be ready for dust: Many RV sites are dirt. A visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground noted, "Expect lots of dust. Bring all your campsite mats, you will need it."

Camping near Inyo National Forest, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference. Happy camping!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping in Inyo National Forest?

Inyo National Forest offers diverse camping options across its vast terrain. For dispersed camping, Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping provides secluded sites where you can truly connect with nature without facilities but with plenty of space between campers. Near the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Grandview Campground offers a high-elevation experience with spectacular night skies. Around Mammoth Lakes, Coldwater Campground sits at over 9,000 feet with 77 sites nestled in the Eastern Sierras. For lake access, Tioga Lake Campground features 9-11 sites at 9,800 feet elevation just outside Yosemite's eastern entrance. Additional options include Sherwin Creek, June Lake Campground, and Twin Lakes Campground, all offering their own unique Inyo National Forest experience.

What are the best campgrounds in Inyo National Forest?

Inyo National Forest offers exceptional camping experiences for all preferences. Oh Ridge Campground stands out with stunning views of June Lake and mountainous surroundings. The sites are spacious with incredible alpine scenery. For backcountry enthusiasts, Thousand Island Lake Backcountry provides 360-degree mountain vistas at nearly 10,000 feet elevation with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and star-gazing. Other top options include Convict Lake Campground near Bishop with easy access to Mammoth, and Junction Campground which offers a quieter experience with well-maintained sites featuring tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers. Each campground showcases the forest's diverse landscapes from alpine lakes to mountain views.

What amenities are available at Inyo National Forest campgrounds?

Amenities vary across Inyo National Forest campgrounds, from basic to more developed facilities. Coldwater Campground features large sites, modern restrooms with cold running water sinks, and bear-resistant food storage lockers. Junction Campground provides tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers at each site with vault toilets, but campers need to bring their own water. Most developed campgrounds offer pit toilets or vault toilets, while some have potable water available seasonally. Fire rings and picnic tables are standard at established sites. Bear-resistant food storage is commonly provided due to wildlife in the area. Dispersed camping areas have no amenities, so campers must pack in all necessities including water and pack out all waste. Cell service is limited throughout the forest, especially in remote areas.

When is the best season for camping in Inyo National Forest?

Summer to early fall (June through September) is the prime camping season for Inyo National Forest, when high-elevation areas become accessible after winter snow melts. Tioga Lake Campground and other high-elevation sites (9,800+ feet) are typically open from late June through September, depending on snowpack. Convict Lake Campground offers a longer season, with fishing enthusiasts arriving for opening day in late April, though it can be freezing cold. Late September brings spectacular fall colors and fewer crowds to the forest. Most campgrounds close by mid-October as temperatures drop significantly. Lower elevation sites may be accessible earlier in spring and later in fall. Winter camping is possible in limited areas for experienced campers with proper cold-weather gear, but most facilities close and roads become impassable.