Lakeshore, California sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in the Sierra National Forest, characterized by alpine lakes, granite peaks, and dense forest ecosystems. The camping season typically runs from late May through September, with most roads becoming inaccessible during winter months. Road access to remote campgrounds often requires navigating single-lane mountain roads with frequent pullouts for passing vehicles.
What to do
Hot springs exploration: At Mono Hot Springs, visitors can access multiple natural thermal pools of varying temperatures. "There are several different hot springs located across the river from the campgrounds. They all range in temperature from lukewarm to Hot," notes one camper. The springs require crossing the river via a log bridge during lower water levels.
Alpine lake swimming: Ward Lake Campground provides direct access to shoreline swimming in a mountain lake. "Half of the camp sites go along the lake itself. The other half of the sites go along the other side of the road and you can see a beautiful view of Ansel Adams Wilderness," explains a visitor. The small size of the lake makes it ideal for families with children.
Backcountry hiking: Thousand Island Lake Backcountry serves as a hub for multiple trail systems. "There are multiple routes to getting to this lake, you can come. The John Muir trail and the PCT lead to this location, also Mammoth California has a trail that leads here as well," notes one hiker. Most trails require permits and bear canisters due to active black bear populations.
Creek fishing: Dinkey Creek Campground offers accessible fishing spots directly from the camping area. "The creek was FUN! Due to the bark beetle infestation, lots of trees are down, but most spots still have good sun cover from the remaining trees," reports a visitor. The creek runs cold throughout summer months, providing relief during hot weather.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of Mono Creek creates ideal dark sky viewing. "It was a perfect place for stargazing! Bring dramamine and roll your windows down if you get motion sickness. I loved how spaced out each site was from each other," shares a camper. The high elevation and minimal light pollution create exceptional viewing conditions.
Natural swimming holes: Whisky Falls Campground features a nearby waterfall with swimming areas. "The waterfall is a short hike away, and there are plenty of trails to hike during the day, as well as dirt roads to explore," notes a regular visitor. The falls provide a refreshing swimming spot during summer heat.
Rustic glamping options: Camp Edison offers an elevated camping experience with added amenities. "Each site has plenty of room and includes a picnic table and fire pit. It's a short walk to Shaver Lake from virtually any of the sites, and several have a nice view of the lake," explains one camper. The campground includes electricity and cable TV at most sites.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite their remote location, campgrounds in the area typically feature clean facilities. "Bathrooms are clean and plentiful and each has a shower (25 cents for 2 minutes). The laundromat has come in handy several times, too," reports a regular visitor to Camp Edison, noting the practical conveniences available at certain sites.
What you should know
Road access challenges: The drive to Mono Hot Springs requires careful navigation. "If you read a few of the other reviews there is mention of the road getting to Mono Hot Springs. You can't describe enough what a crazy road it is. Do not take the warnings lightly. Your first drive down this road will leave you white knuckled," cautions one visitor. Most access roads are single-lane with pullouts for passing.
Wildlife encounters: Ward Lake Campground has reported snake sightings. "Great small campground next to a small lake. Nice campsites, pit toilets. Overall pretty good, but we did come across several small rattle snakes," warns one camper. Proper footwear and awareness are essential when walking through campsites.
Limited services: Most remote campgrounds offer minimal facilities. "Pit toilets but super clean and no stink at all. Again the camp host does an amazing job," notes a visitor to Mono Hot Springs. Water availability varies by location, with some campgrounds requiring visitors to bring their own drinking water.
Seasonal insects: Mosquitoes can be prevalent near lakes and streams. "At night you have the most beautiful view of the star sky. I would strongly suggest to bring insect/mosquito repellent because you definitely will get bit up a lot due to the standing water from the lake," advises a Ward Lake visitor. Insect activity peaks during early summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Protected food storage: Dinkey Creek Campground provides secure options for storing food. "All sites provide a fire pit, table, bear box, and parking space. I love that there are bear boxes at such a remote place!" explains a visitor. Bear boxes are critical for family camping to prevent wildlife encounters.
Educational opportunities: Camp Edison offers structured activities for children. "Camp Edison has great activities during the summer season including guided educational nature walks, both day and evening, as well as kids' movies in the amphitheater. There is also a museum on site that offers activities and fun events like an ice cream social," shares a regular visitor.
Gradual swimming areas: Certain creek access points provide safer water play for children. "I went here with my two kids and they loved playing in the creek. It doesn't have many amenities, but the space is nice with a fire pit and pick of table," notes a visitor to Fish Creek Campground. Shallow creek areas offer safer water access than larger lakes.
Weather preparations: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring preparation. "The first time I camped here was the first week of October in 2016. It was a whole lot colder than I had thought, but luckily we just put some stones around our fire and wrapped it up in wool to keep at our feet and around our bodies," shares a Camp Edison visitor, highlighting the importance of proper gear even during shoulder seasons.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Deer Creek Campground offers basic accommodations for smaller RVs. "Bathrooms and camp site was well maintained and clean. Only complaints was site 27 didn't have too much shade during the day," notes an RVer. Most campgrounds lack full hookups, requiring self-contained operation.
Site leveling challenges: Camp Edison presents potential setup issues. "The site wasn't level but was manageable. Bathrooms are outdated but clean, and they charge you an extra $5 to use the showers," reports an RV camper. Bringing leveling blocks is essential for most mountain campsites.
Size restrictions: Most forest roads limit RV size and accessibility. "Let me start by saying it was worth driving six and a half hours to get here. We loved everything from the isolated campgrounds, the off road trails to test our 4x4 trucks," explains a visitor to Whisky Falls, indicating the road conditions that affect RV access.
Dump station access: Limited sanitary facilities require planning. "There is a dump station on site and also a 'honey wagon' that will come to your site and pump out your waste water, if you desire," notes a Camp Edison visitor, highlighting one of the few full-service options in the region.
