RV campgrounds near Mono City, California sit at elevations ranging from 6,000-10,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations throughout the year. Located near the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park, most campgrounds in this high desert region experience strong winds and limited shade. Seasonal operations typically run from late April through mid-October due to mountain snow conditions.
What to do
Kayaking at Bridgeport Reservoir: Access free kayak and paddleboard use at Paradise Shores RV Park, which offers water activities during the camping season. "Great camp hosts. They have some kayaks available for the guests first," notes Harold T., highlighting the no-cost water recreation options.
Fishing in nearby creeks: Several campgrounds provide easy fishing access just steps from campsites. At Aerie Crag RV Campground near June Lake, creek fishing is immediately accessible. "Fishing in the creek just steps from the site. Each access, level sites," reports Tricia F., who found this less crowded alternative when other campgrounds were full.
Stargazing at higher elevations: The mountain locations offer exceptional night sky viewing. At Saddlebag Lake Campground, one camper explains, "This place was by far the best area I've ever been to to capture the night sky. On a no moon evening and clear sky's the stars looked amazing." The 10,000-foot elevation provides minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Mono City region maintain well-kept bathrooms despite their remote locations. At Bridgeport Reservoir RV Park, campers appreciate the upkeep: "A great find for a last minute booking! Great view with clean showers and bathrooms," notes Olivia K.
Community amenities: Some RV parks near Mono City provide shared spaces that enhance camping experience. Paradise Shores Camp features "Community fire pit, free use of SUPs and/or kayaks, open-air kitchen, dog area and no road noise," according to Rich J., who found the hosts particularly helpful.
Mountain and lake views: Saddlebag Lake Campground delivers exceptional scenery even by Eastern Sierra standards. "Incredible views of the mountains and alpine lakes from the highest campground in California (10k). Primitive camping with vault toilets, incredible campground host, potable water, firewood for sale," writes Tim R., who considered it the best campground he'd visited.
What you should know
Cash only policies: Most RV campgrounds near Mono City require cash payment and don't accept credit cards. At Mono Vista RV Park, a camper noted, "We arrived late in the night, there is a sign with available places on the office entrance. Good restrooms. Dump Station and Hot water shower is free if you pay for Camping. Laundry is available as well. Paid for 1 night with electric and water hookup 52 $. Only Cash."
Wind conditions: The area experiences strong winds, particularly near water. At Paradise Shores Camp, one camper explained: "It's notably windy there, at least when we went. Being in tents it was a little challenging cooking sometimes, but it was worth it!"
Limited Wi-Fi and cell service: Connectivity is restricted throughout the region. At Yosemite Lakes RV Resort, a visitor observed, "No cell service and the 'pay WIFI' did not work for us...but there is complimentary WiFi at the laundry to check in on things that works just fine."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer water features for children. McGee Creek RV Park & Campground provides creek-side sites perfect for kids to splash in during warmer months. "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.
Playground availability: Mammoth Mountain RV Park features a playground and recreational facilities. "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," shares Jessica L.
Bear safety education: Families should prepare children for bear encounters which are common in the region. "We stayed in the large spaces that have electricity and water only. Very quiet and nice," notes Jaime R., while another camper mentioned: "Make sure to use the bear box as we had a bear come into our camp the last night."
Tips from RVers
Uneven sites: Many RV campgrounds in the Mono City area have sloped or uneven parking pads. A visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park noted: "Okay for a pinch. Stayed one night on the way to Yosemite. Nasty snow rainy day. Restrooms and showers clean. Laundry good. Park needs some TLC. Unlevel sites. Cable had terrible connection. Wifi very weak."
Dump station congestion: Plan early departures to avoid waiting for dump station access. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early," suggests Patrick J. from his experience at Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Narrow access roads: Large rigs face challenges at higher-elevation campgrounds. Regarding Saddlebag Lake Campground, a reviewer cautioned: "Accessible via a gravel access road, might be challenging to traverse for anything bigger than small trailers/RVs."
