Whitney Portal camping offers traditional tent sites alongside glamping experiences, located at 8,374 feet elevation near the trailhead for Mount Whitney. Dispersed camping opportunities surround the Portal area, where wilderness regulations apply. The Eastern Sierra region experiences significant temperature swings between day and night, often dropping 30-40 degrees after sunset even during summer months.
What to do
Backcountry exploration from Onion Valley: This trailhead at 9,000 feet elevation provides access to multiple alpine lakes without requiring permits for day hikes. According to a camper, "The scenery is sublime. We stayed here as a first night before a several day backpacking trip in the Sierras but you could also stay here for the weekend and do some local hikes including hiking to Kearsarge Pass" (Sarah R., Onion Valley).
Fishing at Diaz Lake: Just minutes from glamping in Lone Pine, California, the lake provides recreational fishing opportunities with mountain views. "Only a few people here on Tuesday. Pretty stop on the 395. Already 90 degrees in May but some trees so nice in the shade," notes one visitor (Sandy M., Diaz Lake Campground).
Summit preparation: Whitney Portal serves as base camp for those attempting Mt. Whitney. "Great campground to use as a base camp before you summit Whitney. The staff is friendly and helpful and the portal is just a few minutes away with the store and small restaurant. Lone Pine is close about a 10 minute drive away," explains one hiker (Andy H., Whitney Portal).
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Many campers appreciate sites with natural water features. "The second you pull into the campground, it feels unlike anywhere else I've ever been. There is a creek that runs throughout the campground that provides perfect background noise. Even though the sites are pretty close to each other, we could not hear a neighbor once because of the sound of the creek" (Elise F., Whitney Portal).
Acclimation opportunities: The high-elevation campgrounds help climbers prepare for summits. "In 2018, I acclimated to the High Sierra at Onion Valley for one night before a trip down the JMT. The campground is nestled in an idyllic eastern Sierra cañon with excellent star gazing" (Justice F., Onion Valley).
Bear management systems: Campgrounds in the region provide bear boxes to protect food. "Bear boxes are provided at each campsite. This area is allegedly infested with black bears, but we didn't see any this time... There are spigots for water, clean, vault toilets, and bear-proof, garbages and recycle bins" (Elise F., Whitney Portal).
What you should know
Extreme temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights can be cold at elevation. "Was here the last weekend of September and it was COLD. Great site, friendly camp host, vault toilets, not service for t-mobile but Verizon has some signal" (Vanessa H., Whitney Portal).
Limited amenities in remote areas: Some campgrounds lack basic services. "As of Sept 2019, there is no water and no camp host, so be prepared to come with everything you need. Walk in sites have more shade and are more secluded" (Megan S., Onion Valley).
Water access considerations: Water availability varies seasonally. "Bring water or water filters as the spigots are dry. There's a creek to get water to filter" (Stephanie, Onion Valley).
Cell service limitations: Many sites have poor or no connectivity. "There is no service within the campground so make sure you have everything available to you" (Josh S., Campground Guard Station).
Tips for camping with families
Quiet camping options: For families seeking peace away from party sites. "Tim is amazing! He has all the info on nearby trails, maps of the area, answers every question you can think of... This campground is so peaceful, and near several hiking trails" (Kim L., Campground Guard Station).
Child-friendly exploration spots: Look for natural features that engage children. "We camped in a site near the restrooms and a trail. There was a small stream at the back of the site that occupied kids making fairy houses for hours. Beyond that was the river, which gave a peaceful backdrop for sleep" (Emily B., Sentinel Campground).
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer ranger programs. "Sentinel campground is closest to the ranger station, where the National Park service rangers host many programs. There is also a small store and informational center with the rangers station. They also operate an outdoor ampitheather" (robherr, Sentinel Campground).
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Many sites aren't suitable for larger rigs. "If you're 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" (Tammy H., Whitney Portal).
Parking challenges for larger vehicles: Space constraints affect larger vehicles. "A serious squeeze to get our trailer and explorer to fit within the lines... Some restrooms were closed, and the open ones were very crowded at night" (Alisa B., Moraine Campground).
Road considerations: The mountainous terrain creates difficult driving conditions. "The drive to the camp ground is beautiful and scenic. You will be entering the Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Park, so you have to pay the park fee when entering (or just get an America the Beautiful annual pass)" (Jamie D., Sheep Creek).
