Dispersed camping opportunities surround Mono City, California at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 8,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature swings that often drop below freezing even in summer months. The area sits at the intersection of the Great Basin Desert and Sierra Nevada mountains, where volcanic formations and alpine ecosystems converge. Roads to remote camping sites typically close between November and April due to heavy snowfall accumulation.
What to do
Soak in natural hot springs: The Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed camping area offers access to mineral-rich pools with mountain views. "We got there later in the evening and it was difficult to find a spot with the crowds, so try to time it right. The hot springs were easy enough to get to even at night, as long as you have a head lamp," notes Amelia F.
Explore ghost towns nearby: Mono Lake South Dispersed provides a central base for visiting historic sites. "Close to Mono Lake, Bodie, and away from the crowds at Yosemite," reports Wendy A., who appreciates the location's strategic position for day trips.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime opportunities for spotting deer, particularly at Oh Ridge Campground. "We got to see many deer up close. Came to our site to eat," writes Corey M., highlighting the frequent wildlife encounters at this established campground.
Kayaking on alpine lakes: Paddling opportunities abound on June Lake and Mono Lake when winds are calm. "I was close enough to Navy Beach to launch my kayak @sunrise, when the water is dead-calm. Ocean-type squalls can flare up with no warning, because of the wide-open desert terrain," cautions Randel M.
What campers like
Secluded camping among aspens: Lundy Canyon Campground offers sites tucked among trees. "Almost all of the sites on this campground are secluded from one another due to the density of the trees. There are bear boxes, a picnic, and a fire pit for each camp site," explains Chasen L.
Easy access to fishing spots: Creekside camping provides convenient fishing access in several locations. "Was right on the Mill creek which made for some super fun fly fishing for wild brown trout," shares Heather P. about her experience at Lundy Canyon Campground.
Fall foliage viewing: The aspen groves transform dramatically in autumn. "Lower Lee Vining Campground has beautiful aspens with granite domes," notes James N., adding that "Peaceful, lots of trees and wildlife (watch out for bears). Clean, nice tables and fire pits."
Night sky observation: Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site offers unobstructed views for stargazing. "We found a nice, open campsite with great views of Mono Lake and the eastern Sierras," reports Emma T., highlighting the panoramic setting ideal for night sky viewing.
What you should know
Bear activity requires vigilance: Bear encounters are common throughout the region. "While I was here the Bears annihilated someone's ice chest that got left out overnight," warns kathleen K. about Lower Lee Vining Campground, emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
Limited water availability: Many dispersed sites lack potable water. "There is no usable water on property. No flush toilets. No showers," notes a Lower Lee Vining camper, recommending visitors bring sufficient water supplies.
Extreme temperature fluctuations: High elevation camping means preparation for cold nights year-round. "Don't know if it's normal but it was 30° when we woke up in the middle of June," reports adelia about Lower Lee Vining Campground.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to remote sites requires planning. "Google Maps said that Hwy 120 is closed Oct through May and would not direct us to this area via that road, but the road was open in April 2021, probably due to the mild winter," shares Laura M., emphasizing the importance of checking current conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve waterfront sites early: The most popular family-friendly spots fill quickly. "The spots for RVs were apparent and a bit larger than those that weren't," notes Joey P. about site selection at Lower Lee Vining Campground.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain conditions change rapidly regardless of season. "It gets warm during the day, but there is a good breeze during the day. And an even better breeze at night. lots of bugs. bring bug spray," advises Val C. about Mono Basin conditions.
Choose campgrounds with amenities: June Lake Campground offers facilities that make family camping easier. "We were really tucked away from neighbors and were very close to the lake and bathrooms. We went in August and it was perfect weather, warm days and cool nights," shares Heather L.
Plan day trips strategically: Multiple attractions require driving. "A great location, only about 10 minutes away from town & plenty of great fishing spots," recommends Sam J. about Aspen Campground's convenient location for exploring the region with children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit options: Many camping sites near Mono City have limited space for larger vehicles. "We were able to camp with our 19 foot trailer but I don't think I would recommend anything larger," advises Samantha T. about Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed camping areas.
Prepare for uneven terrain: Leveling can be challenging at most sites. "Sites are very close and pretty small. And it was crowded. But it was nice for a last minute weekend get away," notes Alec H. about Oh Ridge Campground.
Limited hookup availability: Full-service RV sites are scarce in the area. "We stayed here for four nights. Originally only booked two, but because of the recent fires in the Sierra Mountains, many people had cancelled and the park wasn't very full. So we added two more nights," shares Kevin H. about Mono Vista RV Park.
Road access considerations: High clearance vehicles have more camping options. "The road gets a little rough and soft after the 4th site," warns Gustav H. about Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site, suggesting careful selection for RV access points.
