Inyo National Forest camping areas sit at elevations from 4,000 to 9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Most Inyo-area RV parks close from November through March, with nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing even in summer months at higher elevations. Cell service becomes increasingly unreliable as elevation increases and distance from towns grows.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: The Bass Lake area provides multiple fishing opportunities with stocked ponds for families. "I really enjoyed tent camping here. I'm not a fan of the trailer camping because it's all cement and everyone is close together, but it's doable if need be. When tent camping, you're under beautiful trees which I love!" notes a visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Creek exploration: Several rv parks near Inyo National Forest offer creek access with swimming opportunities. One camper at Creekside RV Park shared, "The creek is lovely and rushes by with the nice sounds of a creek. Be aware that the water is fast and cold. There are not a lot of spots for kids to play so unless they're older (and maybe even then) you'd want to watch them."
Hiking trails: Many campgrounds connect to regional trail systems. "Here you are in the middle of the June Lakes Alps. Quiet campground with ample hiking opportunities close by. Adjacent marina lets you rent kayaks, paddle boards, or pontoon boats. Easy walk to June Lake Brewery," shares a camper who visited the area.
What campers like
Convenience to towns: Several campgrounds offer easy access to supplies and services. "For the most part a very serene location. Off 395 at Mono Lake is a pleasant rest stop when headed to Yosemite. Being on the end of town. This place has all you need to reset and relax," says a reviewer at Mono Vista RV Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower and bathroom facilities rate highly among visitors. "Bathrooms and showers are very clean. We stayed in the large spaces that have electricity and water only. Very quiet and nice," notes a camper at Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Fishing amenities: Fish cleaning stations and proximity to stocked waters appeal to anglers. "Site WiFi is legit as is T-Mobile and AT&T service. Staff is great and accommodating. Propane available onsite at 3.50/gallon. The Mexican restaurant across the street (1 minute walk) and the Mahogany dried meats + sandwich shop (3 minute walk) had some of the best food," shares a visitor at Highlands RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most RV parks in the Inyo National Forest region operate only from late April through October. McGee Creek RV Park specifically runs "from late April to October 1," requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits.
Site spacing varies considerably: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others place RVs close together. "Sites are very crowded. You gotta love your neighbor. Lots of amenities. Very friendly staff. So helpful and accommodating. Good access to Yosemite. We prefer less neighbors but overall it was nice," notes a camper at High Sierra RV Park.
Bear activity: Bears remain active throughout the camping season. "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," reports a Mammoth Mountain RV Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with swimming facilities for children during hot summer days. "We always stay at mammoth RV park and love it! They have bathrooms and showers which are great for us RTT campers. The location is right near town and not a far drive from most of the lakes. The tent spots are pretty big and have some space between them," shares a visitor.
Kid-friendly fishing: Some Inyo National Forest area campgrounds maintain stocked ponds specifically for younger anglers. "Do an annual fishing trip here with the guys and it's always good. Full amenities and recent upgrades/cleanup. Not the cheapest around but you get what you pay for and this is glamping at it's finest!" notes a visitor to Creekside RV Park.
Recreation facilities: Certain RV parks near Inyo National Forest provide additional amenities. "Spots large enough for almost all size rigs. Tents too. Good bathroom amenities and swimming pool/spa. Playground. Walking distance to town. Great walking paths," reports a Mammoth Mountain camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some RV parks have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. "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. Bring all your campsite mats, you will need it," advises an RVer at Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Size restrictions: Larger rigs face limitations at certain campgrounds. "The campsite was 39 and it was right next to the bathroom. To leave with a 26' travel trailer I had to pull out and back down another road just to exit the park," notes a visitor at High Sierra RV Park.
Hookup positioning: Utility placement varies significantly between parks. "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," observes a Mammoth Mountain RV Park camper.
