The Sierra National Forest region surrounding Mono Hot Springs sits at elevations between 7,000 and 10,000 feet, creating a high alpine environment where temperatures can drop significantly after sunset even during summer months. Access to most glamping sites close to Mono Hot Springs, California requires traversing Kaiser Pass Road, a challenging single-lane mountain route that typically opens late May and closes with the first significant snowfall in October. Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the surrounding wilderness areas, with specific regulations regarding distance from water sources and proper food storage.
What to do
Fish in local waterways: Multiple fishing opportunities exist along the San Joaquin River and nearby lakes. At Mono Creek Campground, "I saw an employee adding nets of fish inside" the creek that flows through the camping area. The campground provides easy access to fishing spots without requiring lengthy hikes.
Explore alpine lakes: Several pristine lakes surround the Mono Hot Springs area, offering swimming and cliff jumping opportunities. At Deer Creek Campground, "the lake being a one minute walk from your site" provides convenient water access. One visitor noted, "Everyone with a license caught fish! The view of the lake is amazing!"
Backcountry hiking: For more adventurous visitors, trails lead deep into the Ansel Adams Wilderness. At Thousand Island Lake Backcountry, visitors can access "trails leading to lakes, meadows and hot springs." A visitor explained, "There are multiple routes to getting to this lake, you can come. The John Muir trail and the PCT lead to this location, also Mammoth California has a trail that leads here as well."
What campers like
Natural cooling systems: The high elevation provides comfortable summer temperatures compared to the Central Valley. At Mono Hot Springs, campers appreciate the climate variability: "Perfect weather for hiking to the higher hot springs." Another visitor noted the rapid weather shifts: "It was snowing as I left the next morning which made it tricky to drive out."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Twin Lakes Campground, "gorgeous views and great fishing" combine with dark skies for astronomy enthusiasts. One visitor observed, "At night you have the most beautiful view of the star sky."
Wildlife encounters: The remote setting brings opportunities for wildlife observation. "Secluded enough for bears to roam around likes its their hood," reported one visitor at Twin Lakes Campground. Safety measures include mandatory bear boxes at most established sites. Another visitor at Mono Creek Campground reported "a lot of bats love to fly around at night."
What you should know
Road conditions: Kaiser Pass Road requires slow, careful driving with turnouts for passing vehicles. A camper at Camp Edison advised, "Warning drive slow as it is 2 way traffic." Another visitor explained, "It took 2 hours to drive 18 miles on a one lane road that is not in good repair. But WORTH it!"
Limited supplies: Pack essential items as services are minimal. Mono Hot Springs has a small store with basic provisions, but as one camper noted, "The store has a decent amount of supplies. Due to Covid-19 the burrito shop is closed but the store is still open."
Cell service limitations: Most campsites have no reliable cellular connectivity. At Twin Lakes Campground, a visitor reported, "Cell service for ATT wasn't very strong so take some time away from the rest of the world. You can run into town for reception and wifi if needed."
Insects: Mosquitoes can be prevalent near water sources. A camper at Mono Hot Springs advised, "Bring extra bugspray for these sites as you are close to the water." Yellow jackets may also be present during certain seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with amenities appropriate for children. At Dinkey Creek, "the creek, while low, was beautiful, and the guests were courteous and friendly. While there were many trees on the ground, there was still abundant shade." Another family reported, "There were plenty of small pools for wading and swimming."
Bear safety education: Teach children about proper food storage and wildlife awareness. A visitor at Mono Hot Springs emphasized this need: "This is active black bear country, so you must use approved bear canisters for food and odoriferous items (toothpaste, soap, lip balm, insect repellent, etc)."
Alternative accommodation: Consider cabin options for families with very young children. At Camp Edison, "Camping is thru the park service so make sure to stop and get a pass before getting there. There is a restaurant and store. And cabins to rent run privately."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Larger RVs face significant challenges on Kaiser Pass Road. One RVer at Mammoth Mountain RV Park noted, "Kaiser Pass was a bit of an adrenaline rush. I don't advise trailers but I have seen them while driving in. It is one lane and you must pull out for opposing traffic."
Leveling requirements: Bring sufficient leveling equipment for uneven sites. "The paved lots were so far from level that we didn't have enough leveling blocks. I am confident that these unlevel spots, G80 and G81, are the exception and not the norm," reported one RVer at Dinkey Creek.
Resource planning: Plan for limited hookups and services at most campgrounds. At Twin Lakes Campground, "This campground seems more fitted to those using campers more so than those tent camping. I saw very few tent campers and the RV's and tow behind campers were the majority here."
