Best Campgrounds near Mammoth Lakes, CA
The Mammoth Lakes region in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains provides multiple camping areas ranging from developed campgrounds to dispersed options on public lands. Established sites include Coldwater Campground with 77 sites at over 9,000 feet elevation, Twin Lakes Campground near the scenic lakes of the same name, and Convict Lake Campground. For those seeking free camping, several dispersed areas exist along Scenic Loop both on the main section and the Eastside area. Accommodation types span tent camping, RV sites with varying hookup availability, and even cabin rentals at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Camping in the Mammoth Lakes area is predominantly seasonal, with most developed campgrounds operating from late April through October. Weather conditions change dramatically even during summer months, with daytime temperatures dropping significantly at night. Many campgrounds feature bear boxes at each site due to active bear populations throughout the region. Several campgrounds provide flush toilets and drinking water, though shower facilities are limited and sometimes available for a fee. "Even during hot summer months, it gets chilly at night. August 6, it was 50 degrees at night. A 40 degree dip from the cloudless daytime temps," noted one visitor describing the alpine climate conditions.
Campers consistently praise the natural beauty and recreational access available from Mammoth Lakes campgrounds. The proximity to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and mountain biking routes makes these campground options popular despite their sometimes basic amenities. Several campgrounds are situated near creeks or lakes, providing pleasant ambient sounds and scenic views. A visitor remarked about Sherwin Creek Campground: "It is secluded, and you would never know that you are 5 mins. away from a Vons or all the hubbub of the town." Wildlife encounters are common throughout the area, with bears, deer, and smaller mammals frequently spotted near campgrounds. Most developed campground options fill quickly during peak summer season, particularly on weekends, making advance reservations highly recommended for those requiring specific amenities or locations.
