Camping near Inyo National Forest provides access to elevations ranging from 4,000 to over 10,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions across multiple climate zones. Dispersed camping options around Mammoth Lakes sit at approximately 7,000-8,000 feet elevation, requiring preparation for temperature drops that can reach below freezing even in summer months. Bear activity is common throughout the region, with most campsites providing bear-resistant food storage.
What to do
Hot springs exploration: Several natural hot springs are accessible near Crab Cooker Hotsprings, though water temperatures vary seasonally. "Visited the Hot Springs in late October and was pleasantly surprised with the location, warm in the daytime and cool at night. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and views. The Hot Springs were delightful," shares one camper. The springs themselves are small, accommodating only a few people at once.
Fishing in alpine waters: The streams near Tuff Campground provide trout fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "We caught a total of about 6 trouts in one day. The near by lake crowely has some amazing formations," reports one visitor. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased in nearby towns.
Hiking to backcountry lakes: Multiple trail systems connect camping areas to alpine lakes at higher elevations. "There are a variety of spot that include non-shade and shaded. The best feature of the park is the little stream that runs thru it," notes a Tuff Campground visitor. Most hiking trails gain significant elevation, so acclimation is recommended before attempting longer routes.
What campers like
Convenient town access: Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground offers proximity to services without sacrificing natural surroundings. "Great place to spend the night while traveling threw. No frills but clean! Great price, Nice people and quite. Pet friendly which is a plus. Be mindful it's bear country so wonderingl around at night not so wise," shares one camper. The campground is located about 5 minutes from town by car.
Uncrowded dispersed options: Away from established sites, dispersed camping provides solitude with minimal facilities. "Camped in August. Busy little spot for dispersed camping. Tents and vans were there. Views on one side are mountains. Views on the other are rolling fields/foothills with lots of cutie vocal Moo Moos and Alkali Lake!" reports a Crab Cooker Hotsprings camper. These sites typically have no water or toilets.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report bear and deer sightings near their campsites. "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," notes a Mammoth Mountain RV Park visitor. Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Dirt roads and access limitations: Many glamping and camping locations require navigating unpaved roads. "Rocking road coming in but worth it for the view. About 8 spots at the end of the dirt road. Only one bar of service. It would be hard to access with anything thing over 22ft," warns a Crab Cooker visitor. High clearance vehicles are recommended for many dispersed sites.
Bear safety requirements: All camping areas enforce strict food storage regulations. "The tent spots are pretty big and have some space between them. Make sure to use the bear box as we had a bear come into our camp the last night," advises a Twin Lakes Campground camper. Food must be stored in provided bear boxes or approved containers.
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly regardless of season. "Remember that you're at elevation so it can get cold at night even in the summer. Twin Lakes and all of the surrounding Mammoth area is gorgeous," notes a camper. Temperature swings of 40°F between day and night are common.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide water access appropriate for families. "The small beach is perfect for hot days. Be sure to put food and garbage away before bed- we had a bear come visit!!" shares a Twin Lakes camper. Most lakes remain cold year-round, with water temperatures rarely exceeding 65°F even in summer.
Accessible hiking: Shorter trails suitable for children connect many campgrounds to nearby attractions. "This campground is right on the lake for great views and incredible sunsets and rises. You can boat, fish and just play in the water, there is even a rope swing to enjoy," notes a Twin Lakes visitor. Most family-friendly trails are under 2 miles round-trip.
Off-season advantages: Visiting outside peak summer months reduces crowds at popular attractions. "We decided to take a last minute trip to Mammoth Mountain to test a few new pieces of camping gear out. Campground was probably 75% full with mostly RV's and trailers," reports a camper who visited in shoulder season. May and September typically offer milder temperatures and fewer visitors.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many campsites have size constraints for larger vehicles. "Revised, our second trip here. Still 4 stars, more accurately 3.5 stars. We were under the trees this time instead of on the asphalt parking lot slab. All dirt, dirt back in site, dirt camp site accessed by a dirt road. Expect lots of dust," advises a Pine Cliff Resort visitor. Sites accommodating rigs over 30 feet are limited throughout the region.
Hookup availability: Most glamping and RV sites in Inyo National Forest offer partial hookups only. "We backed in pretty deep to the site as not to run into our neighbor, My long shore cord had to be stretched to get to the power box. The water and sewer fine. Why these boxes are so far back almost into the next site is puzzling," notes a Mammoth Mountain RV camper. Electrical amperage is typically limited to 30 amps.
Dump station access: Plan for potential wait times when using dump facilities. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early," advises an RVer at Mammoth Mountain RV Park. Most established campgrounds have single dump stations that can develop long lines during peak checkout times.
