Cabin accommodations near Inyo National Forest provide rustic lodging options at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,500 feet. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations with overnight lows dipping below freezing even in summer months. Winter access to many cabin locations requires snow chains or 4WD vehicles from November through May.
What to do
Explore thermal features: At Mono Hot Springs, visitors can access multiple natural hot springs across the river from the campgrounds. "There are several different pools located across the river from the campgrounds. They are all over the hillside and range in temperature from lukewarm to bath water to Hot," notes a camper who appreciated the variety of soaking options.
Visit alpine lakes: Several mountain lakes offer swimming and fishing opportunities within short hiking distance of cabin accommodations. "Doris lake is pretty, with several cliffs to jump from ranging all sizes up to 60 feet," according to one visitor who found the swimming spots at Mono Hot Springs particularly enjoyable.
Use transit options: Public transportation connects many cabin camping areas to town centers and trailheads. One visitor at Reds Meadow Campground mentioned, "There was also a free shuttle from Reds Meadows to mammoth mountain ski lodge where you can catch a bus into Mammoth lakes," making it convenient to access services without driving.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bears are common near camping cabins in Inyo National Forest. A visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground noted, "We weren't here for long, only one night on our way back home to Oregon but it was long enough to see a bear cross the road. This is definitely a spot where they aren't kidding about locking up your food."
Natural dark skies: The minimal light pollution allows for exceptional stargazing. A camper at Crowley Lake RV Park commented, "Place was very quiet, very dark at night. The stars were amazing."
Trail connectivity: Cabin locations provide direct access to popular hiking routes. "It is within walking distance to Lake Sotcher as well as Reds Meadow Pack station and trailheads for Rainbow Falls and Devils Postpile," explained a visitor who appreciated the strategic location of Reds Meadow Campground for accessing multiple trails.
What you should know
Single-lane access roads: Some cabin locations require navigating narrow mountain roads. A camper at Mono Hot Springs warned, "Prepare for one hell of a drive... You can't describe enough what a crazy road it is. Do not take the warnings lightly. Your first drive down this road will leave you white knuckled."
Temperature variations: Even summer nights can be extremely cold at these elevations. "It was also pretty chilly for what we thought was still the fall season, only 30 degrees when we arrived and 22 when we woke up in our tent the next morning," reported a Mammoth Mountain RV Park visitor.
Reservation considerations: Cabin availability varies significantly by season, with peak periods often requiring bookings months in advance. A visitor to June Lake RV Park noted, "We got a wonderful site last week of May just driving up mid week. They had several open spots though mostly filled by evening."
Tips for camping with families
Game areas: Recreational facilities provide entertainment options during inclement weather. A visitor to Camp High Sierra mentioned, "Clean showers, very family oriented, lots of kids. 41° at 6pm on June 17th. Game room."
Bike trails: Several cabin locations connect to paved cycling routes suitable for children. "Loved all the bike trails. Easy to catch a bus into town or take a quick 5 min drive," observed one Mammoth Mountain RV Park camper who enjoyed the family-friendly activity options.
Bear awareness education: Use the presence of bears as a teaching opportunity for children about wildlife safety. "Make sure to use the bear box as we had a bear come into our camp the last night," advised a camper, emphasizing the importance of proper food storage and wildlife precautions with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For larger RVs, request specific areas of campgrounds. At Pine Cliff Resort, one camper advised, "Plan on coming back, but would need to stay on southwest of the campground, as those sites seem best."
Utility placement considerations: Some sites have awkwardly positioned hookups. A June Lake RV Park visitor suggested, "Bring a long hose and power cord to get more flexibility about how to position your rig. There is a fire ring and picnic table on site."
Dust mitigation: Many cabin and RV sites have dirt surfaces requiring preparation. A Mammoth Mountain RV Park visitor warned, "All dirt, dirt back in site, dirt camp site accessed by a dirt road. Expect lots of dust. Bring all your campsite mats, you will need it."
