Best Tent Camping near Keeler, CA

Looking for tent camping near Keeler? The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Keeler with tent camping. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Keeler, California (34)

    Camper-submitted photo at Portagee Joe Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Portagee Joe Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Portagee Joe Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Portagee Joe Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Portagee Joe Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Portagee Joe Campground near Keeler, CA

    1. Portagee Joe Campground

    10 Reviews
    24 Photos
    53 Saves
    Lone Pine, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground near Keeler, CA

    2. Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground

    6 Reviews
    11 Photos
    53 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Located in the Horseshoe Meadow Recreation Area this trailhead campground has 18 walk-in sites suitable for backpackers and hikers to use the night before they are going to hike into Golden Trout Wilderness via the Cottonwood Pass trail. Please self-register at Horseshoe Meadows Campground when you arrive. Sites include food storage boxes, tent pads, and tables, fire grates, piped water, and toilet facilities. One night stay limit. Horseshoe Meadow Area Campgrounds Guide (pdf)

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Meadow Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Meadow Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Meadow Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Meadow Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Meadow Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Meadow Campground near Keeler, CA

    3. Horseshoe Meadow Campground

    5 Reviews
    5 Photos
    76 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Horseshoe Meadow is a vast 10,000 foot high meadow, surrounded by lodgepole pine forest. Getting there is an adventure in itself; the road to Horseshoe Meadow climbs over 6,000 feet, as it winds its way up from Lone Pine. Three campgrounds are located in the Horseshoe Meadow Area. Trails from Horseshoe Meadow provide access to the Golden Trout Wilderness and Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park. The road to Horseshoe Meadow is closed from approximately November to May due to snow.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $6 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground near Keeler, CA

    4. Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    12 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo at Homestake Primitive Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Homestake Primitive Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Homestake Primitive Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Homestake Primitive Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Homestake Primitive Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Homestake Primitive Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA

    5. Homestake Primitive Campground — Death Valley National Park

    2 Reviews
    16 Photos
    30 Saves
    Keeler, California

    Extremely remote campsite at 3,785ft of elevation, accessible only by high-clearance vehicles with all-terrain tires. Access from Saline Valley Road requires navigating Lippincott Pass and should only be attempted by experienced 4-wheel drivers. There are no approved toilet facilities at this location and no water available. Pack in all that you need, pack out all that you bring.

    • Tents
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitney Family Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitney Family Campground near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitney Family Campground near Keeler, CA

    6. Whitney Family Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    15 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Jason E.'s photo of tent camping at Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA

    7. Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park

    8 Reviews
    29 Photos
    127 Saves
    Darwin, California

    First come / first served tent only campground with no additional fee. Located next to CA 190 at 2100' feet in elevation. Emigrant campground overlooks the Cottonwood Mountains which is a part of the Panamint Range. This is a small campground with 10 sites southwest of Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station. A building with flush toilets is 270 feet down a dirt trail just outside of the campground.

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    • Trash
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite near Keeler, CA

    8. Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    8 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Located near Horseshoe Meadows, the Cottonwood Lakes Basin has many pristine alpine lakes and creeks located between Mount Langley and Cirque Peak. Side trails branch to Muir Lake, Hidden Lake, South Fork Lakes, Cirque Lake. Along the trail to New Army Pass are Long Lake and High Lake in the John Muir Wilderness. Climbing over New Army Pass the trail continues into Sequoia National Park and eventually joins the Pacific Crest Trail.

    The Cottonwood Lakes are home to California's state fish, the Golden Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita).

    Common Destinations: Cottonwood Lakes basin, New Army Pass, John Muir Trail, Mount Langley

    Download area map for trail names https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5337644.pdf

    Wilderness Permit Information (760) 873-2483

    Historically, there has been a high level of bear activity in the Cottonwood Lakes area. From Memorial Day weekend through October 31, all food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers.

    At the trailhead, all food, trash and scented items must be removed from vehicles and stored in the bear proof lockers that are located in parking areas. Dispose of trash in bear proof trash receptacles.

    For more information about traveling in bear bear country, click here...https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/inyo/recreation/?cid=fsbdev3_003846

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo at Lone Pine Lake - Inyo Wilderness near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lone Pine Lake - Inyo Wilderness near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lone Pine Lake - Inyo Wilderness near Keeler, CA

    9. Lone Pine Lake - Inyo Wilderness

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    20 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    While planning your wilderness trip, please note that activities like backpacking, hiking, skiing, mountaineering, and horse camping are allowed. Motorized or mechanical activities like drones or bicycles are not allowed in wilderness.

    There are maintained trails through the area to hike on, but no developed campground facilities. Campsites are not assigned. Follow Leave No Trace principles when selecting a wilderness campsite. Groups are limited to 15 people or less, in order to preserve the solitude and tranquility of the backcountry. If you will travel into the neighboring national parks, you may be limited to a smaller group.

    When you sign a permit as group leader you are agreeing to abide by all laws, rules and regulations that apply to the area and accept responsibility for your group to do likewise.

    The first principle of Leave No Trace is to plan ahead and prepare. Learn the rules & regulations for the area you'll visit.

    • Tents
    Spencer's photo of tent camping at Symmes Creek near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Symmes Creek near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Symmes Creek near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Symmes Creek near Keeler, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Symmes Creek near Keeler, CA

    10. Symmes Creek

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    66 Saves
    Seven Pines, California
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Alcohol
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Showing results 1-10 of 34 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Keeler, CA

485 Reviews of 34 Keeler Campgrounds


  • Tom and Marianne  H.
    Vijitra V.'s photo of tent camping at Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Apr. 5, 2020

    Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Nice in winter

    Not a pretty campground, just a gravel parking lot, but not crowded in winter when the weather is very pleasant. Can be very windy at night. Only $12/night. Walk to nice shops and restaurants. Bathrooms clean. Nice view of valley. Mostly RV sites. One row of tent camp sites with fire pit grills. If you have a roof top tent you’re considered an RV here so can’t use a tent site.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Boulder Creek RV Resort near Keeler, CA
    Aug. 7, 2022

    Boulder Creek RV Resort

    They say it doesn't usually blow this hard.....but the muffins were good.

    This was stop to be able to visit Manzanar Internment camp.

    Tent sites are gravel and mostly level. They all have water, a table and fire ring. Trees are still young. Very close to Owens lake(within view).

    We had a lot of wind that came blowing up the valley from the south. There is very little protection for the tent campsites. Almost killed the tent.

    Hosts were very helpful in getting us situated despite the need to switch sites(too many people).

    Free muffins and coffee in the morning! Nice pool and hot tub, as well as bathrooms and laundry facilities.

    Easy access into  town for dinner or groceries.

  • Erin G.
    Aug. 15, 2018

    Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park

    Hug a giant tree!

    If you’re looking to camp in California, Sequoia National Park should be one of your top destinations. They have cabin and tent camping. I have stayed in both. There are trails galore and GIGANTIC trees bigger than your car. This beautiful setting is worth visiting year round and I recommend camping during the less touristy times in early Spring and Fall. You are near lakes, waterfalls, and an array of bodies of water. I recommend coming up the back end up the park for an easier ascent rather than via the 198. The 198 takes you up a steep, but beautiful, hair pin turn ridden road. If you get car sick easily, take the route through Fresno.

  • Roxann L.
    Camper-submitted photo at Sequoia National Forest Coy Flat Campground near Keeler, CA
    Aug. 19, 2021

    Sequoia National Forest Coy Flat Campground

    Worst campsite

    Do yourself a favor and avoid campsite 008; this tent site is right next to the vault restrooms that have not been cleaned in ages…oodles of flies coming out of them and the odor carries into the tent site!! Also people have zero respect for quite hours; people were super loud and it was extremely upsetting and annoying!

  • D
    Vijitra V.'s photo of tent camping at Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Sep. 16, 2020

    Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Great Location and Awesome Sunset

    The park is conveniently located within the park and is easy to get to. The RV section of the park basically consists of a large parking lot. The tent sites are on one edge of the parking lot. There really isn't any indication where one tent site starts and another ends. But there are fire rings and picnic table scattered about so everyone sort of claims the one closest to them. It can get busy at times so getting a site is definitely not guaranteed. The sunset is Death Valley is absolutely breathtaking. Also, since its so dry, consider leaving the rain cover off your tent to truly sleep under the stars!

  • Kristian W.
    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Meadow Campground near Keeler, CA
    May. 19, 2022

    Horseshoe Meadow Campground

    Good for tents, not for campers

    Great for tent camping, but no pull-in or flat spots if you're sleeping in your vehicle. I slept in the equestrian campground since those were back-in sites, but if there are horses you're not allowed to do that. The hike to the base of Langley was great though!

  • Natasha H.
    Sep. 10, 2016

    Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park

    Great Family Camping

    Lodgepole Campground at Kings Canyon / Sequoia is a GREAT park to do some great family camping. It is clean, well laid-out and very well maintained. I had sponsored the Sequoia National Parks for many years because of how well they maintain the parks, campgrounds, facilities and how their interpretive programs are. Hiking through the Crystal Caverns is amazing. Must do it. It is QUITE A WALK down to the caves so give yourself plenty of time to do the walk down BEFORE you go on the tour. This way if you have little ones with little legs, they get a rest and can enjoy the tour.

    The lodgepole campground is very close to The Village marketplace and makes it nice for "easy camping"- grabbing items that you may have forgotten or to pick up a nice treat. They also have showering facilities at The Village Marketplace as well. It makes it nice if you plan to tent camp for any period of time.

    I have tent camped here over 20+ times in a 10 year span. I do not know if they have opened up the stables again however they used to have horseback riding trips that were fun to do.

    A nice little river/stream runs though the campground and it makes it nice to have "mini adventures" without having to leave camp at all.

  • E
    Emily's photo of tent camping at Sequoia National Forest Quaking Aspen Campground near Keeler, CA
    Sep. 6, 2022

    Sequoia National Forest Quaking Aspen Campground

    Quiet and beautiful

    It was a very peaceful and calm campground on the I stayed in one of the yurts. It was very clean and there is a bunkbed with two full size beds and another separate full size bed. The bathrooms were also kept very clean. I didn’t get a chance to go hiking in the area, but there are trails nearby. There is no service but it is about a 5 minute drive from a cafe/store/lodge that has Wi-Fi. I was in site 28. Sites 6-10 looked amazing for tent camping.

  • Eddy J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Vijitra V.'s photo of tent camping at Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Mar. 11, 2023

    Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Cheapest not free camping in the park

    We were gonna camp wild Rose (free campsite) but was feeling a lil cold in the mnts so came down to sea level for the warmth. Two nights tent camping at $14 a nite. Very windy but so is the rest of the desert. Spots in the front were quieter first nite, spots in the back seemed more popping off but still chill. Sadly the overpriced market / gas station seem to be the cheapest in the main stretch of the park so def gas up or buy stuff there and not at the oasis / furnace creek side of things .

  • Christy S.
    Erin M.'s photo of tent camping at Kennedy Meadows Campground near Keeler, CA
    Jul. 21, 2020

    Kennedy Meadows Campground

    Going back in time

    Started coming here over 40 years ago as a kid. This was (still kind of is) a working horse packing station where they ran cattle out for the summer. Most trips out now are aimed at tourists/fishermen but the vibe is still the same. Fun horse riding trips. Great family vacation to get away from everything. Cabins are rustic but have everything you need. Plenty of tent camping in the campgrounds before the lodge. This is a great starting point for many backcountry backpack trips as it is near the PCT. Lots of hiking. Great fishing spot, river is generally stocked with fish on a weekly basis.

  • Tammy H.
    Amanda B.'s photo of tent camping at Whitney Portal near Keeler, CA
    Sep. 16, 2016

    Whitney Portal

    Awe Inspiring

    Whitney Portal Campground is located in the Inyo National Forest. It is the access point for anyone to hike / climb Mount Whitney. The campground itself has may RV and tent sites, but reserve plenty in advance as it fills up quick. If you are planning on hiking from the portal they do have one night only campsites for the hikers just outside the parking area at the portal. Just make sure you get a parking pass from the Forest Service office in Lone Pine. On 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. Outpost camp is about another 1.5 miles up and is in a grassy meadow with a stream, also unimproved. The last camp area before summitting is Trail camp. It is 6 miles in from the portal, there is a small lake for a water source (use a filter). This is above tree line and the ground is hard with granite rock, so a tent wont stake. We used rocks instead and tied off with guide lines. This whole area, from the portal campground to the summit is amazing. The portal also has a small store and cafe. Food is awesome, Highly recommend.

  • kathleen K.
    Katie K.'s photo of tent camping at Diaz Lake Campground near Keeler, CA
    Jul. 2, 2021

    Diaz Lake Campground

    BUGS!!!!

    Road through here on a road trip one hot afternoon when I needed to get off the road. I saw that there was a lake so I thought it would be a great place to camp. I travel in a Toyota Yaris and sleep in my car. This is a very big Campground with a lot of campsites; car camping, tent sites, RV sites and boat sites also. They all come with a fire ring and a picnic bench. The trees are very sparse. My mistake was parking under trees thinking that I could utilize the shade to sleep. I got eaten alive I have so many bites all over me that it seems like I have a rash. The ants are both black and red in the sand outside and they bite. There are also sand flies that bite and spiders that bite and the birds are relentless. This lake is amazing the water is clear and the perfect temperature too bad the campground sucks! There are no flush toilets and no running water. The price is cheap but I probably won't be back maybe for a dip on my way out of town. But this place is way too buggy for me

  • Elliott B.
    Camper-submitted photo at Monarch Lakes Backcountry Sites near Keeler, CA
    Aug. 9, 2016

    Monarch Lakes Backcountry Sites

    Beautiful views, open area not too far of a hike

    Great site to get to after a short (semi difficult) hike. If you want to head off into other parts of the backcountry (or are coming back) this is a great calm and serene area with fantastic scenery. The lake isn't too cold if you want to rinse or just cool off. Plenty of tree coverage for both some shade and to hang your food. Plenty of flat smooth areas to set you your tent (or a group of tents). Campsites can be right by the monarch, giving you a fantastic view at night or first thing in the morning.

  • Jill F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jörg T.'s photo of tent camping at Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park near Keeler, CA
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park

    Been camping here for 20 years

    Cold Springs campground is a must for camping in Mineral King. Remote, but not too remote and great for kids. Closed in winter due to snow. Usually open late May through October.

    Getting to this campground takes a little patience. It is about 45 min drive from SR-198 on Mineral King Rd (partially paved/dirt), but with a couple small pull offs with water falls and Sequoias along the way. You can also stop at Silver City, a small cabin resort that offers a hot meal, some supplies, and paid showers, that is located about 15 minutes down the road from the campground.

    To access the campground, you drive across a bridge and locate the camp site that you want (first-come, first-served). Tent camping only. There is a drop box for camping fees and the ranger does a walk-around daily.

    The campground road is a loop. There are sites located along the East Fork of the Kaweah River from which you can climb down into the River. In spring, some river sites have some flooding because of rain and runoff. Note that the water is COLD, even in summer.

    Vault toilets and potable water are provided. No cell service, but they do have a pay phone you can use. Be sure to bring all the supplies you need. Firewood is a must, and each site has its own fire ring. Keep food in bear boxes. I have seen bears there, but not every time. Also be wary of marmots.

    Great access to many different hiking trails of varying difficulty. 100% Recommend.

  • Alan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Beth G.'s photo of tent camping at Lone Pine near Keeler, CA
    Aug. 4, 2019

    Lone Pine

    Ranger Review: Eclipse Adjustable Neck Gaiter @ Lone Pine CG (CA)

    Campground Review:

    This campground lies about 10 miles to the west of its namesake town, Lone Pine in the Owens Valley to the east of the Sierra Nevada range.  It is a very popular campground to use as a base camp for climbing Mt. Whitney especially if the Whitney Portal CG is full. which was the case when we were there.  If you can't get a reservation or walk in site at Lone Pine CG, then Tuttle Creek, and the Alabama Hills would be your closest places to camp if you're not planning on climbing Mt. Whitney.

    Now on to the actual campground!  Now since this is a few miles from the actual trail head to Mt. Whitney it has more RV camping sites than tent sites.  Campsite range in price from $25-$65 for single tent sites, RV sites, and 1 group site, respectively.  Each campground has a large bear proof box to store all of your food and  smelly items in addition to a picnic table and a metal fire ring.  The campground had potable water spigots and vault toilets spread throughout.  You could also purchase firewood from the camp host, which is recommended due to the possibility of spreading pests.

    To list all of the activities you can do in this area would take a book so I'm just gonna touch on some of the things we did!  Our main goal for the trip was to try and summit Mt. Whitney by the Mountaineers Route.  We got pushed back however due to hard route finding and soft avalanche prone snow.  We ended going around 10 miles but the regular hiking trail is 13 miles one way!  After getting beaten down by the mountain we were able to eat some great food at the Mt. Whitney Restaurant which had Americana and diner food. 

    Since we stayed at this campground in the middle of June the temperatures weren't too hot but I would really try to camp higher up at the portal if you plan on coming here in July or August as it could be really hot and there wasn't a ton of shade.  Also be doubly sure to book your campground ahead of time as I doubt there will be any sites if you show up after 3 or 4 without a reservation.

    Product Review:

    Being a Ranger for the Dyrt allows us to test and review gear from time to time!  This time we were testing out the Adjustable Neck Gaiter from Eclipse sun protection.  This was honestly one of my favorite pieces of gear I've been able to test for the Dyrt!  

    Pros: 

    • Simple design that replaces $100's of sunscreen in it's lifetime! (never washes out)
    • Is multi functional and can be used as a gaiter, headband, buff, and so much more!
    • Super lightweight and doesn't need to be reapplied or leave you greasy
    • It is super cheap and includes a Velcro strap to adjust to smaller neck      

    Cons:

    • The only flaw I could find was the sewing along the neck was a little weak and I ripped it slightly before realizing I needed to be a little more delicate pulling it on

    Other than that one con I would say this is an amazing product that helps keep you from spending 100's on a temporary sunblock and helps keep all those nasty chemicals out of nature, the waterways, and the oceans!  I definitely think we'll be trying out the sleeves for fishing as my fiances arms can get pretty burnt sometimes.

  • C
    Nicholas G.'s photo of tent camping at Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground near Keeler, CA
    Jul. 18, 2021

    Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground

    Beautiful and quiet

    This campground is sparse in amenities and full of the beauty of the eastern Sierras. The sites are really optimized for car or tent camping, but will also work for a small trailer. We have a 13 foot vintage travel trailer and she fits anywhere, but not all of the slabs were level or easy to back into. The sites are large and most of them have a pretty view, or an interesting rock formation.  They are spacious and there is plenty of room from your neighbors.     
    We went in July and there were no attendants on site, and they are all first come first served. You put your fees (cash or check) in an envelope at the entrance and tear off a flap to clip at your site while you are there, as well as a hang tag for your vehicle. Its $17 per site and I think an additional $7 per extra vehicle The toilets are vault toilets, and there are water taps every few sites but the notice said that the water was not potable until boiled for 5 minutes. There are no showers, and no trash bins - you pack your trash out.
    There is no cel service - we had none until the bottom of the 9 mile grade where you start the climb 30 miles away. There is a general store that has ice and drinks about 35 minutes / 9 miles from the campsite towards Kennedy Meadows, and Grumpy Bears retreat about 2 more miles down the road that has food and a bar. Both the general store and Grumpy Bears have a decent wifi that you pay for. I used the 2 hours for $2 and that was enough to get messages out and catch up.

    The only gas for sale that I saw was at the general store, and it was expensive, but nice to know its there. There is a trash dumpsite on the turnoff before Grumpy Bears.

    We stayed for 5 days and I could have stayed much longer!

  • Becky O.
    Rose B.'s photo of tent camping at Panamint Springs Resort near Keeler, CA
    Sep. 24, 2017

    Panamint Springs Resort

    Desert camping

    After a long day hiking a site seeing in the desert. It was nice to just pop up the tent and relax. Large sites could have camp fires. They also rent out cabins and tent cabins.

  • Sam M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Andrea M.'s photo of tent camping at Buckeye Flat Campground — Sequoia National Park near Keeler, CA
    Oct. 30, 2018

    Buckeye Flat Campground — Sequoia National Park

    trees trees trees

    This is a really cool little campground near the entrance of Sequoia National Park. The sites are tent only, so no hookups or anything like that. Pretty nice sites though, a lot of space. I think there can be fire restrictions in the summer since it can get so dry, so just be aware of that. As far as places go, it wasn't too pricey. I think we paid about $20 a night. There are bathrooms with running water, and the sites have picnic tables and fire rings. Each site also has storage lockers for your food, so be sure to lock it up in order to keep the bears from getting into it.

    As for stuff to do around here, you obviously have to check out the trees. Go look at General Sherman and all the other Sequoia trees. They're so amazing and honestly it humbles you a little. Also check out Moro Rock Trail. The view from the top is amazing. You'll also probably see a fair amount of wildlife while you're hiking around, so be careful of the bears. Out of all my trips to California, I've seen the most bears here in Sequoia. They are super cool creatures, just keep a respectful distance and of course don't feed them.

  • J
    Andrea M.'s photo of tent camping at Buckeye Flat Campground — Sequoia National Park near Keeler, CA
    Jun. 28, 2021

    Buckeye Flat Campground — Sequoia National Park

    Pretty Location in Sierra NP

    It would have been a good site for a tent but we are traveling with a roof tent. Our site was a bit uneven with no way to level it. Otherwise the site was good. The area is popular so it was a bit crowded but not overly noisy for the number of people. There is access to the river for a cooling dip. Bring bug spray.

  • Grant M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Vijitra V.'s photo of tent camping at Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Feb. 14, 2021

    Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Stayed nearby during quarantine .

    CA was on lockdown (01/2021), but remote camping was allowed far enough off paved roads. We set up a tent about two miles from Stovepipe Wells on the Mosaic Canyon Road just before the trailhead. Could see some lights from State Route 190 but not much else. Nice view of the Mesquite Dunes upon daybreak. The ground we stayed on was rocky, but no problem once we set up the air mattress and tent. Gorgeous views upon waking up.

  • Randall G.
    Randall G.'s photo of tent camping at Grays Meadows near Keeler, CA
    Oct. 11, 2022

    Grays Meadows

    Secluded by a Creek

    Upper Section is covered by oak trees with willow lined trout filled Independence Creek right through campground. Site 9 barely enough room for our two tents. Twos were perfect, not too cold at night.

  • Rosie H.
    Vijitra V.'s photo of tent camping at Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park near Keeler, CA
    Feb. 15, 2021

    Stovepipe Wells Campground — Death Valley National Park

    A Parking Lot With a View

    Its a literal parking lot. Lots of RVs and pop ups when I was there. There was a campground host and flushing toilets, dumpsters, recycling, a bin for Coleman fuel can recycling, potable water, walking distance to a village with supplies and a gas station. The lot is gravely, but pretty level and tents are comfy.

    Bonus is the parkinglot format was an unobstructed line of site to anywhere and I didn't have to worry when my small child wanted to be independent and make 18 million bathroom trips all by herself.

    I went in Feb and it was warm enough for a mesh top tent and stargazing (no privacy, but an amazing view).

    There was a duststorm that blew in on the second day from Mesquite Dunes and it took out all the literal tents while I was there. I was grateful for MREs so I could cook inside my car.

    Gonna be real - moving all my gear to the front seat led to disaster in the form of a drained battery the next day, but it was easy to get a jump start.

    Possibly the best possible experience for a first time camper with a 5 year old.

  • Lauren M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Alabama Hills Dispersed Campsite near Keeler, CA
    Apr. 22, 2024

    Alabama Hills Dispersed Campsite

    Great 2 spot dispersed camp

    2 spots available on the road. This spot requires 4wd. High clearance not needed with careful driving. Beautiful small road with a few bolted rock climbs. Spots are marked with a sign with a tent symbol and a camp fire ring. I can’t wait to come back. Amazing!


Guide to Keeler

Nestled near Keeler, California, tent camping offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy diverse amenities and activities.

Local Attractions for Tent Campers

Tent Campers Appreciate These Amenities

  • Portagee Joe Campground offers essential amenities like drinking water and picnic tables, making it a convenient spot for a relaxing stay.
  • At Whitney Family Campground, campers can enjoy the soothing sounds of a creek while benefiting from toilets and trash disposal facilities.
  • The Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite features a pristine environment with no trash or water hookups, perfect for those seeking a more remote experience.

Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Keeler, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Keeler, CA is Portagee Joe Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 10 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Keeler, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 34 tent camping locations near Keeler, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.