Best Tent Camping near Olancha, CA

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Olancha? Find the best information on tent camping near Olancha, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Olancha's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Olancha, CA (40)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground

    1. Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground

    6 Reviews
    11 Photos
    52 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Located in the Horseshoe Meadow Recreation Area this trailhead campground has 18 walk-in sites suitable for backpackers and hikers to use the night before they are going to hike into Golden Trout Wilderness via the Cottonwood Pass trail. Please self-register at Horseshoe Meadows Campground when you arrive. Sites include food storage boxes, tent pads, and tables, fire grates, piped water, and toilet facilities. One night stay limit. Horseshoe Meadow Area Campgrounds Guide (pdf)

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Meadow Campground

    3. Horseshoe Meadow Campground

    5 Reviews
    5 Photos
    73 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Horseshoe Meadow is a vast 10,000 foot high meadow, surrounded by lodgepole pine forest. Getting there is an adventure in itself; the road to Horseshoe Meadow climbs over 6,000 feet, as it winds its way up from Lone Pine. Three campgrounds are located in the Horseshoe Meadow Area. Trails from Horseshoe Meadow provide access to the Golden Trout Wilderness and Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park. The road to Horseshoe Meadow is closed from approximately November to May due to snow.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $6 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground

    4. Limestone Campground

    10 Reviews
    49 Photos
    375 Saves
    Johnsondale, California

    Overview

    Limestone Campground sits in an area dotted with oak and gray pine along the Upper Kern River, a designated Wild and Scenic River, at an elevation of 3,500 feet.

    Recreation

    Whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Upper Kern River are popular activities. To learn more about the Upper Kern River, including safety and permitting requirements and a listing of local outfitters, visit the Sequoia National Forests overview of the area.

    Natural Features

    The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the forest's lower slopes. The forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. At various points along the river, gray pines, scrub oaks, grass and dry climate shrubs cling to steep canyon walls, while cottonwoods and willows line the water's edge.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (760) 376-1269.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground provides a good base for day trips to the Sequoia National Park Trail of 100 Giants. The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.

    • Pets
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $34 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park

    6. Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park

    8 Reviews
    18 Photos
    487 Saves
    Three Rivers, California

    Overview

    The Mineral King area features the highest elevation campground in the parks. At 7,500 feet (2280 m), it is only open during the summer months. A narrow, winding, largely unpaved road leads to the area and its two campgrounds. RVs and trailers are not recommended on Mineral King Road and are not permitted in campgrounds. Mineral King is not connected to the rest of Sequoia National Park by roads.

    Recreation

    Trails to alpine lakes and mountain passes begin nearby.

    Natural Features

    Hikes into the backcountry out of Mineral King will give visitors an ever deeper understanding of the beauty and uniqueness of Sequoia National Park. Hike to alpine lakes and over mountain passes, or climb a peak.

    Nearby Attractions

    There are limited services at Silver City Resort, 2.5 miles (4 km) west of the campground.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (559) 565-4404.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Payment in full will be charged to your credit card upon completion of the reservation. A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Additional fees will apply for late cancellations If your campsite remains vacant for 24 hours after your arrival date it will be cancelled and made available on rec.gov.You will be charged for the first night's campsite fee and a $10 cancellation fee, all other fees after that will be refunded. Recreation.gov policies apply to all reservations, cancellations, refunds and date changes. Call (559) 565-4404 if you will be arriving 24 hours after your arrival date so your site won't be cancelled.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Firewood Available

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite

    7. Cottonwood Lakes Backcountry Campsite

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    7 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Located near Horseshoe Meadows, the Cottonwood Lakes Basin has many pristine alpine lakes and creeks located between Mount Langley and Cirque Peak. Side trails branch to Muir Lake, Hidden Lake, South Fork Lakes, Cirque Lake. Along the trail to New Army Pass are Long Lake and High Lake in the John Muir Wilderness. Climbing over New Army Pass the trail continues into Sequoia National Park and eventually joins the Pacific Crest Trail.

    The Cottonwood Lakes are home to California's state fish, the Golden Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita).

    Common Destinations: Cottonwood Lakes basin, New Army Pass, John Muir Trail, Mount Langley

    Download area map for trail names https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5337644.pdf

    Wilderness Permit Information (760) 873-2483

    Historically, there has been a high level of bear activity in the Cottonwood Lakes area. From Memorial Day weekend through October 31, all food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers.

    At the trailhead, all food, trash and scented items must be removed from vehicles and stored in the bear proof lockers that are located in parking areas. Dispose of trash in bear proof trash receptacles.

    For more information about traveling in bear bear country, click here...https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/inyo/recreation/?cid=fsbdev3_003846

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground

    9. Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground

    6 Reviews
    9 Photos
    19 Saves
    Camp Nelson, California

    Overview

    Belknap Campground, elevation 4,800 feet, is located east of Porterville, CA off state highway 190 in the Giant Sequoia National Monument in the Western Divide Ranger District. It sits within the Belknap and McIntyre giant sequoia groves.

    Recreation

    Trails in the monument are open to hikers, horseback riders and bikers. The trails wind through giant sequoia groves, up mountains and alongside wild rivers. A hiking trail also starts within the campground, leading into the sequoia grove, with fishing in Tule River along the way.

    Facilities

    Trails in the monument are open to hikers, horseback riders and bikers. The trails wind through giant sequoia groves, up mountains and alongside wild rivers. A hiking trail also starts within the campground, leading into the sequoia grove, with fishing in Tule River along the way.

    Natural Features

    The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the Forest's lower slopes. The Forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls, such as Salmon Creek Falls near Fairview and Grizzly Falls on the Kings River.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (661) 455-6010.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $34 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
Showing results 1-10 of 40 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Olancha

572 Reviews of 40 Olancha Campgrounds


  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park

    Good access to Sequoia

    Stayed in#2 which was largely shaded but sloped as are many sites. Recommend site#20 especially- next to river and large and level. Also site#17 and#22 were level and relatively shady/private. Flush toilets and sinks with potable water but no water taps. Has sewer dump adjacent.#21 and#23 were nice but not as level. Some road noise but not bad, Large rock formation to west means early sunset which keeps temps moderate. 

    Food aside: Ate breakfast scramble burritos (Mtn House or Readywise) with supplemental Costco Merlot cheese, chorizo, and Kinders wood fired garlic seasoning. Yum!

  • Ryan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Holey Meadow Campground
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Holey Meadow Campground

    Beautiful and quiet

    Pulled in on a Friday afternoon and had the whole campgrounds to ourselves, until about 7 pm. Neighbors kept noise to a minimum. We chose site #3 (back right) and it had a fairly level spot for our cars RTT. Overall, the grounds and bathrooms were very clean. Holey Meadow, across the road, is small, but very beautiful. The main road is just past that, so you will hear traffic. The Trail of a Hundred Giants is about 2 miles north and worth a visit. A section of the trail was closed due to a downed tree, but still a nice walk.

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kern's River Edge Campground
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Kern's River Edge Campground

    Nice campsite, friendly hosts, family and kid oriented

    Well run site, with easy late check in process. Friendly on site camp hosts who sell ice and firewood. Quite a lot of rules, and it had kind of a kids camp feel to it. Showers are hot, but you need quarters for them. I only gave three stars as it just not my kind of campground. If you're a family with kids I think it'd be great.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)

    Perfect.

    This campsite was fantastic. Access was easy with a 4x4, but may be a little tough for a 2WD car. Plenty of space for a small trailer to maneuver.

    Highly recommend. Perfect for an off-road trailer or overland setup.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Cove
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Paradise Cove

    Beautiful scenery

    Very beautiful sight of the lake and mountains. Easy access from the road. Had a ton of wind and thunder so hard to move further up and away from the lake so we wherent up against the wind. Close to the road so a little noise from it, but thats what made it easy accessible as well. All in all a very nice campsite.

  • Kate
    Camper-submitted photo from Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park

    free, quiet campground

    no one else was there when we arrived later in the evening though we only camped for one night at the end of summer. no one else ever showed up either. just a few cars drove by every now and then. we were exhausted so we just opened a couple windows to the car rather than set up our tent. toilets were within walking distance/next to the parking lot but closed due to bees. port-a-potties were available instead. at night, the stars were absolutely beautiful. it was pretty hot but by opening the car windows and using some battery powered fans, we managed!

  • Lisa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Creek RV Resort
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Boulder Creek RV Resort

    An Oasis on the 395

    This park is in the middle of nowhere but a fabulous view of the Sierra Nevada's. I had a problem when I pulled into my site getting shore power from the electrical hook up. But I went to the office and I was moved immediately to a better site with a good hook up! Quiet, clean and well landscaped for the desert surroundings

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park

    Just needed for a night

    One night is all I spent here. It was much warmer climate than other areas of the park due to lower elevation. There’s a 6 mile hike starting from the campground that leads to some waterfalls. No camp host on duty and many campers breaking rules I.e. campfires fires during a burn ban, loud music throughout the campground, plugging a movie theater set-up using extension cords to the bathroom. Would have appreciated if it was better managed. The camp site itself was decent. Large enough for several tents.

  • Andrew P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

    Quiet, remote, beautiful

    I pulled in here looking for a campsite on my way up to mammoth. I was able to find a pretty dope spot surrounded by rocks, and nowhere near any other campers. I was legit, alone.

    Great place to pull off and sit on a rock to watch the sun set over the mountains. Shade was minimal, but if you hide between the rocks like they do in that scene on the fire planet in Riddick you’ll be alright til it cools off.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park

    Great spot to be off

    Great campground as base for hikes or just to chill and enjoy the river. We had no cell reception - good to be really off for a little while. Only the restrooms where a little disgusting - experienced that differently in other NPs.

  • Cameron L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)

    Great Spot tucked off the road

    We stopped here on our way through Sequoia Nat’l Forest and loved it. The water is super clear and nice! We were the only ones staying here, so it was very quiet and calming. A handful of camping spots around this area, well worth the stay!

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Whitney Trail Camp
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Mt. Whitney Trail Camp

    beautiful setting, but overcrowded and uncomfortable

    I think the coordinates for this campground are off, it's located closer to 36.563093,-118.279422

    We hiked Mt Whitney from the portal campground in two-days, with one overnight at trail camp. Even with the permit system, the campground was packed, it was hard to find a spot for our tents. We arrived to the campground around 4pm, so I would suggest starting the hike earlier (we started at 10am) if you want a better spot. Another downside of how many people go through the campground, was that it smelled like pee in a few areas, and I was very disappointed to see people had left trash and even wagbags.

    The 360 view around the campground is magnificent, and it is breath-taking to see the sunset and sunrise. Don't expect to sleep much in-between though, because you're sleeping on rocks, and hikers start/finish at all hours on the trail that's a few yards away from many of the tent spots.

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panamint Springs Resort
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Panamint Springs Resort

    Great amenities, decent cabin

    We stayed one night in Cabin #17. Because we visited off-season, we were one of only three cars parked in the cabin/camping area. The beds were comfortable and the air-conditioner kept the cabin cool while we slept. There were a LOT of bugs that got inside the cabin, which was somewhat unavoidable every time we openned the door. 

    The night we stayed was a new moon, so the dark sky views were INCREDIBLE. We saw the milky way with our bare eyes sitting on the porch of our cabin.

    We arrived around 10pm at night, so the check-in desk was already closed. Fortunately, I had received the email with the late check-in instructions, and finding our cabin assignment was easy. I do wish getting some information in advance had been easier. I tried to call the front desk on our drive to the park, but no one answered. It wasn't entirely clear what amenities/facilties were open. For example, the website said breakfast available in one place, but in another place it said the only open was getting a breakfast burritio in their gas station. So we didn't know if we should pack extra food.

    It did turn out that the restaraunt was still open, despite being off-season. It was pricey (totally fair, you're in the middle of a desert) but delicious, and friendly service. The staffer in the general store/gas station was also really friendly and gave great advice for which parts of the park to visit, and how to drive responsibily in the summer heat.

    Finally, I think it goes without saying, but coming in July will be HOT. Plan to do activities like hiking early in the morning, and find some place by noon to stay in the air conditioning until evening.

  • Erik R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

    Dennis H. Jackson

    Exploring Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road is like stepping onto a film set straight out of a Western movie. This iconic location in California has been the backdrop for countless films, thanks to its stunning rock formations and dramatic landscapes. If you're planning a visit, make sure to check out Castle app for an interactive and personalized travel guide that enhances your experience with custom itineraries and insights tailored to your interests. Whether you're a film buff or an outdoor enthusiast, the combination of real-world exploration and digital tools can make your adventure in the Alabama Hills truly unforgettable.

  • Mike W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Portagee Joe Campground

    Convenient Spot

    Last minute decision to camp near Lone Pine. The site has a machine that takes cards now - super convenient. The breeze helped cool the temperature quickly, and the creek sounds great! Mostly quiet tonight, maybe a third full.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley

    Confusing layout lacking signage

    It’s confusing to find the campsite. No signs directing you where to go. You have to drive behind the sites and pull through. Sites are small and you’re basically packed together. power and water are on the right instead of left. Bathroom ok, shower curtain looks dirty.

  • Eric A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Fish Creek Campground

    Tranquil Camping

    Campsite 32 was beautiful, overlooking the creek, every morning here was blissful. Fairly remote (about 25-30 min from the general store with wifi) this place feels like another world

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Gulch
    Jun. 29, 2024

    Boulder Gulch

    Good camping site

    This campground has some shade and some open areas.Area was clean and the host is personable. Cost of camping fee is $34 per night. Has potable water and running water in bathroom. No showers or amenities.

  • Barrie M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley

    Tranquility

    A lovely site, both scenic and peaceful. Was very quiet when we stayed. The small lake was ideal for a bit of casual kayaking and nature watching - mostly birds and dragonflies. Charming and spacious, the informality of the site was a refreshing change. Owing to it being quiet, we spent most of our time there in one of the riverside overlooks that provided seating, a table & a grill (as well as being a vantage point for watching nature and launching the kayaks.

    The only slight negative was that it was the only one of 10 we used on this trip that offered full hook-ups but no WiFi (5G service was adequate though). Would also benefit with the addition of more than just the single shower/toilet unit (which contrary to another review was of more than adequate size)

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hogback Creekside Camp
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Hogback Creekside Camp

    Nice spot by a swift running creek.

    This place was pretty easy to find, right off Hogback road. There are a couple of sites here, we picked the first one. After an hour or so two vans showed up and parked on the other side of the creek. This site is so close to the road, we could see them make the turn off Hogback road. No trees, just bushes. It's okay. Pretty basic. Great views of the backside of Mount Whitney.

  • Deb H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Whitney Portal

    Pretty

    The campground is beautiful. The sites are a bit close together and many have little privacy, but it was very quiet and enjoyable. The vault toilets needed to be emptied and they were very stinky. It seemed a little early in the season (early June) for them to be so full. Nice hiking trails accessible from the campground. Saw fresh bear scat near our site, but never saw any bears.

  • Nicholas G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground

    Radical

    The sites were pretty well spaced and quiet at night. The bathrooms were not bad, and there's running water (needs to be treated). There's the wonderful sound of motorcycles on and off through the day, so if that bothers you take notice. There's some great fishing near by too.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Symmes Creek
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Symmes Creek

    Great mountain view

    Good camping spot with camping by a couple 14er including Mountain Whitney beautiful view of the mountains. Not that busy only had some construction vehicles driving by in the morning they are doing some construction up here currently



Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Olancha, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Olancha, CA is Cottonwood Pass Walk in Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Olancha, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 40 tent camping locations near Olancha, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.