The Keeler area sits at approximately 3,600 feet elevation, surrounded by the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains to the west and the Inyo Mountains to the east. Camping options near Keeler range from established campgrounds with amenities to primitive dispersed sites with no facilities. Nighttime temperatures often drop 30-40°F below daytime highs, creating significant temperature swings even in summer months.
What to do
Explore Whitney Portal trailheads: Access to multiple day hikes available from Whitney Portal including Lone Pine Lake. "The Trail there are three distinct places to camp. Lone Pine Lake is 2.4 mile is and is a nice unimproved camp area with a beautiful lake," writes Tammy H.
Fishing in local waters: Diaz Lake allows fishing, though sharing water access with swimmers requires courtesy. "Plenty of random dirt roads leading to private sites nestled among giant rocks. Couple established trails, but the opportunity for exploring on your own is endless!" notes Jennifer D. about Alabama Hills Recreation Area.
Bouldering opportunities: Alabama Hills features numerous rock formations for climbing enthusiasts. "This is a small camp ground. Off the aqueduct, this is a hidden gem," reports Ginny B. about Portuguese Joe Campground, which offers proximity to climbing areas.
What campers like
Designated campsites with utilities: Tuttle Creek Campground offers specific amenities for $10 per night ($5 with Senior Pass). "Just a couple miles from the Alabama Hills. $10 a night BLM campground. Vault toilets. Both water and dump station are closed 80+ sites and all have great views," explains Rick L.
Morning refreshments: Some private campgrounds provide unexpected amenities. "Complimentary muffins and coffee from 7-9a daily which was very hospitable and kind," notes Julia M. about her stay at Boulder Creek RV Resort.
Night sky viewing: The area offers exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. "It's so quiet at night you could hear a pin drop. The stars and the Milky Way are insane! So many constellations and shooting stars and satellites," reports Rachel W., highlighting the astronomical viewing opportunities in the region.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Water systems at many campgrounds close during winter months. "Dump station closed until May. Clean pit toilets in weather protected buildings," reports Leonard H. about facilities at Tuttle Creek Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Mice and other small mammals can be problematic in certain areas. "But we were invaded by deer mice. They got in our campervan. We killed more than 10 of them... There was a poster on the vault toilets warning about hantavirus in the area," warns Deb H. from her experience at Tuttle Creek Campground.
Regulation changes: Dispersed camping rules have changed in popular areas. "The only places you can camp are designated now. Tuttle creek. Everywhere else there are signs for no camping and only day use," reports Emily D. about Alabama Hills Recreation Area, noting recent restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Tent-specific areas: Some campgrounds designate areas for tents only. "Stayed day after Labor Day. First come first serve and not many people there. Was able to find spot next to lake in tent only section," notes eli R. about Diaz Lake Campground.
Rock climbing for kids: Natural playground opportunities abound. "There are a couple big boulders the kids can climb on and around. Clean restrooms and a easy drive up to Whitney Portal," writes Mark G. about his family's experience at Lone Pine.
Temperature management: Prepare for extreme temperature fluctuations. "It was above 100 degrees so pulled in at 5 and left by 9:30 next morning but great spot with beautiful views for only $14," mentions eli R., highlighting how families can time arrivals and departures to avoid the worst heat.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for pet owners: Look for campgrounds with designated dog areas. "Amazing views, dog run, good spots to pull through, WiFi rough," notes Bruce S. about his stay at Boulder Creek RV Resort, highlighting amenities specifically for traveling with pets.
Dump station availability: Check operational status before arrival as some facilities close seasonally. "The Dyrt listing shows they have a dump station but when we stopped in after a trip to Alabama Hills we were informed their dump station was no longer 'operational'," cautions Jake N. about changes at Boulder Creek RV Resort.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at dispersed sites. "There are 3 legal spots with camping signs. First two are level. Third will need leveling blocks," advises Kent G. about Alabama Hills Dispersed Site, providing practical information about site conditions for larger vehicles.
