Camping near Mammoth Lakes offers year-round options with elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-80°F during the day and drop to 40-50°F at night, while winter brings significant snowfall that can limit access to many campgrounds. Bear-proof food storage is mandatory at all campgrounds in the area due to active black bear populations.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Crowley Lake is a popular fishing destination just 15 minutes from Mammoth. "We stay here every year for a week. There are campsites right on the creek and others that aren't. Everything is spaced out well and it is well maintained," notes Patti A. about McGee Creek RV Park & Campground.
Hiking nearby trails: Many campgrounds provide direct access to hiking trails. "We loved this cute family owned and operated RV Park! They have tent sites as well as full and partial hookup sites for RVs... This is a fantastic campground if you plan on visiting Yosemite as it is only 12 miles from the main entrance," shares Paul C. about Mono Vista RV Park.
Water recreation: Swimming holes and lakes offer summer cooling options. "The creek, waterfalls & rope swing over the swimming hole was unbelievable!! The kids enjoyed the rope swing while the mom enjoyed the walk back to the falls & thru the shallow waters," reports Emily L. at High Sierra RV Park.
What campers like
Access to transportation: Many campgrounds connect to local transportation. "Loved all the bike trails. Easy to catch a bus into town or take a quick 5 min drive. Loved the indoor pool. Nice clean campground," says Karissa J. from Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Nearby breweries: Local breweries provide post-adventure refreshment. "Adjacent marina lets you rent kayaks, paddle boards, or pontoon boats. Easy walk to June Lake Brewery," points out Marcus K. from June Lake RV Park.
Onsite amenities: Swimming pools and recreation facilities enhance stays. "The tent spots are pretty big and have some space between them. Make sure to use the bear box as we had a bear come into our camp the last night," warns Annelyse at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears are common in this region. "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. This is definitely a spot where they aren't kidding about locking up your food," cautions Fay M. at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Weather fluctuations: Mountain weather changes quickly. "It was also pretty chilly for what we thought was still the fall season, only 30 degrees when we arrived and 22 when we woke up in our tent the next morning," shares Fay M. about an October stay.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Bathrooms and showers are very clean. We stayed in the large spaces that have electricity and water only. Very quiet and nice," notes Jaime R. about camping at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Fishing ponds: Kid-friendly fishing opportunities exist at some campgrounds. "Old school campground with a mountain feel. Small general store and fishing pond. Sites are very close together, not a whole lot of trees," mentions Paul C. about Creekside RV Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas. "Spots large enough for almost all size rigs. Tents too. Good bathroom amenities and swimming pool/spa. Playground. Walking distance to town. Great walking paths," reports Jessica L. at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Shower considerations: Family showers vary by campground. "The shower is available (but be aware it's a bit of a tight squeeze as it shares space with the toilet.) It's four quarters for five minutes for the shower," explains Jennifer W. at Creekside RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra work for leveling. "Our spot was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked," reports Whiffaroni M. about High Sierra RV Park.
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Site WiFi is legit as is T-Mobile and AT&T service. Staff is great and accommodating. Propane available onsite at 3.50/gallon," mentions Jared C. at Highlands RV Park.
Dump station timing: Plan dump station usage strategically. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early," advises Patrick J. at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.