Dispersed camping near Mammoth Lakes offers numerous options beyond developed campgrounds. Situated at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,800 feet, the region experiences temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, even in summer months. Campers seeking both free and established sites can find options ranging from lakeside locations to forest settings with variable road access requirements.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Rainbow Falls trail connects to Devils Postpile National Monument for a 4-mile loop hike. "We hiked to Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls, went to the Earthquake Fault line, and visited the INYO Craters," shares Jaci from Pumice Flat Group Camp.
Fishing in alpine streams: Multiple campgrounds offer direct creek or lake access for fishing. "The River runs right through the campground with several access points for fishing," notes Erin M. about Pumice Flat, while at Tuff Campground, "We caught a total of about 6 trouts in one day," according to Kuo G.
Hot spring exploration: Natural thermal features provide unique relaxation opportunities after hiking. "There are multiple NATURAL HOT SPRINGS! There are several different pools located across the river from the campgrounds... range in temperature from lukewarm to bath water to Hot," explains Mollie M. about Mono Hot Springs.
What campers like
Bear sightings from safe distances: Wildlife viewing opportunities add excitement when proper precautions are taken. "We weren't here for long, only one night on our way back home to Oregon but it was long enough to see a bear cross the road," reports Fay M. at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Natural swimming holes: Cold alpine waters provide refreshing alternatives to hot springs. "You can boat, fish and just play in the water, there is even a rope swing to enjoy," shares Mary C. about Twin Lakes Campground, while Chris M. notes at Mono Hot Springs, "Doris lake is pretty, with several cliffs to jump from ranging all sizes up to 60 feet."
Stargazing opportunities: Minimal light pollution allows exceptional night sky viewing. "The moon was bright but still being able to sit back and watch the stars in a hot spring in the middle of the night was unreal," reports Issac V. from Crab Cooker Hotsprings, a dispersed camping area.
What you should know
High elevation impacts: Many sites sit at elevations where temperature fluctuations require preparation. "Remember that you're at elevation so it can get cold at night even in the summer," advises Jonathan G. about Twin Lakes Campground.
Accessibility challenges: Some of the most rewarding sites require significant effort to reach. "The last 18 miles over Kaiser Pass took 1.5 hours. A sub-par road surface little bigger than one lane in many places made transit.. interesting," warns Chris M. about reaching Mono Hot Springs.
Strict bear safety enforcement: Rangers actively check compliance with food storage regulations. "Keep your food in the bear lockers, they have daily visitors late in the evening and throughout the night," notes Jason F. about Twin Lakes Campground, while multiple reviews mention the importance of using provided bear boxes.
Tips for camping with families
Easy shuttle access: Public transportation connects campsites to attractions and town. "There's also a bus that runs up to the resort with many stops in town that's FREE!" explains Erin M. about Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Yurt camping options: Several locations near Mammoth Lakes offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to tents. Upper Pines Campground provides yurt camping opportunities with nearby access to shuttle stops, making it convenient for families seeking a balance between comfort and wilderness.
Camp store proximity: On-site or nearby general stores provide last-minute supplies. "They have a general store for all your camping needs. Also have propane available," notes Thomas K. about Pine Cliff Resort, helpful when children inevitably need unexpected items.
Tips from RVers
Limited site dimensions: Many campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle size. "The sites are narrow and not very deep. They seem to only have a couple of pull throughs for over 38 ft rigs," warns Christian M. about Pine Cliff Resort.
Generator restrictions: Hours of operation are strictly enforced in most campgrounds. "Generator hours are 6am-10pm which is really early and too late in my opinion," notes Jaci about Pumice Flat Group Camp.
Terrain variations: Different sections of the same campground may offer drastically different experiences. "Choose to camp under the shade of the pines on a dirt pad or in the clean, parking lot style section," suggests Jessica L. about Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground, giving RVers options based on their preferences.
