Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside sits at approximately 7,200 feet elevation in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. The terrain consists of pine forest with multiple clearings suitable for camping. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with cooler nights in the 40-50°F range. Road conditions worsen after rain or during spring thaw when melting snow creates muddy sections.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access multiple trail systems directly from camp, with routes suitable for beginner to advanced riders. At Goat Meadow Dispersed Camp Site, campers appreciate the proximity to recreational options. "This place is perfect for camping, it has everything you need and it has three bars of Verizon if you need to be able to use the Internet, just make sure that you drive up the trail a little bit or hike up there," notes Owen T.
Hot springs exploration: Drive 35 minutes to natural thermal pools. Mono Hot Springs offers several different temperature options. "There are multiple NATURAL HOT SPRINGS!! 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," writes Mollie M.
Fishing access: The San Joaquin River and multiple alpine lakes provide trout fishing opportunities within 15-45 minutes by vehicle. "The river runs right close to the campsites and it is amazing fishing, I was told that it gets stocked often," reports Heather P. about nearby fishing options.
What campers like
Proximity to town supplies: The location offers quick access to services while maintaining a wilderness feel. At Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside, visitors appreciate this balance. "We can up here to escape to heat from the valley. There was plenty of space and it was accessible with our campervan," explains Stephanie S.
Dark night skies: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities year-round. Troy H. noted during his stay, "Weather is beautiful, nights are dark. Great starscapes."
Spacious campsites: The area provides ample room between sites for greater privacy than established campgrounds. "Easy access to all vehicles except some areas that may need a little higher clearance. Nicely secluded but not many great open views in the area since it is in the Forrest among the trees," observes Tim W.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations as fire bans frequently occur during summer and fall. At Twin Lakes Campground, established fire rings are provided, unlike dispersed areas. "Each site has a picnic table, campfire ring, and storage containers. There are flushing toilets and showers," notes Mary C.
Wildlife awareness: Black bears actively patrol the area May through October. "Keep your food in the bear lockers, they have daily visitors late in the evening and throughout the night," warns Jason F.
Road conditions: Access roads require higher clearance after heavy rainfall or snow. "The dirt hill road is fairly decent, but no medium+ to large rigs," advises Robert H.
Temperature fluctuations: Pack for 30-40°F temperature drops between day and night, even in summer. "Remember that you're at elevation so it can get cold at night even in the summer," explains Jonathan G.
Tips for camping with families
Water planning: Pack all drinking water needed for your entire stay, approximately 1 gallon per person per day. At Silver Lake Campground, unlike dispersed areas, amenities are available: "This campground has bathrooms and plenty of space. It is a very open campsite, so you see clearly into other campers' campgrounds," notes Caitlin S.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Several moderate trails under 3 miles start directly from the camping area. "There are lots of trails to hike, many leading to waterfalls or creeks. Lots of wildlife in the area; squirrels, ducks, deer, and even bears," shares Mary C.
Space for activities: The open meadow areas provide room for children to play while remaining visible from camp. "Multiple locations near by not listed. It gets a bit dusty and windy. Lots of off road vehicles," reports Eli C.
Tips from RVers
Trailer size limitations: RVs over 30 feet face challenges navigating some sections of forest roads. At Thousand Island Lake Backcountry, campers note that access requires planning. "This is not an easy location to get to, but if you take the PCT High Trail, it's relatively easy. Still a ~8 mile hike in, but it's SO worth it," advises Daniel J.
Level site selection: Arrive early to secure the limited number of naturally level parking spots. "Our Tacoma made it to the campsites toward the back of the grounds just fine, but there was access closer to the main road for vehicles without high clearance," reports Sharni.
Generator courtesy: If using generators, limit operation to 8-10am and 5-7pm to minimize noise for neighboring horse campgrounds near Inyo National Forest. "The campground seems more fitted to those using campers more so than those tent camping. I saw very few tent campers and the RV's and tow behind campers were the majority here," observes Heather P.
