Cabins near Swall Meadows sit between 7,000-9,500 feet elevation in the Eastern Sierra, creating distinct seasonal challenges for visitors. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer highs rarely exceed 85°F. Most cabin accommodations require advanced planning as they close during winter months when Kaiser Pass and other access roads become impassable due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Fishing at Rock Creek Lake: The lake offers excellent trout fishing opportunities from early summer through fall. "The lake will have you amazed with how clean the water is. It's crystal clear and crisp," reports one visitor to Rock Creek Lake Campground.
Hot springs exploration: Natural thermal pools provide relaxation after hiking. At Keoughs Hot Springs and Campground, a visitor notes: "The pool is nice and was very full on a Sunday afternoon. If you want hot springs with peace and quiet just walking out the entrance to the free pools."
High-elevation hiking: Trails near cabin accommodations lead to alpine lakes and wilderness areas. "It was about a 50 to 75 yard walk from the parking, water spout, and bathrooms. Camp host was pleasant and had wheelbarrows to help move your stuff," explains a camper about access at Rock Creek Lake.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife including deer, bears, and numerous bird species. One visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground reported: "We stayed in the large spaces that have electricity and water only. Very quiet and nice."
Thermal soaks: Natural hot springs range from lukewarm to very hot. "The pool charge is separate but well worth it to me, it is a warm mineral water pool that leaves your skin feeling amazing," states a Keoughs Hot Springs visitor.
Altitude experience: The high elevation provides unique camping conditions. "Stay at Rock Creek Lake Campground in mid June. The drive up from Hwy 395 was easy for a mountain road. The campground is at about 9,500 feet so be aware for altitude."
What you should know
Access challenges: Roads to some cabin locations require careful driving. One Mono Hot Springs visitor cautions: "The drive is pretty interesting once you get to the single lane road. We didn't stay in the campgrounds but we did get to experience the dispersed camping."
Bear activity: Active bear populations necessitate proper food storage. A camper at Mammoth Mountain RV Park warns: "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."
Limited cell service: Most cabin areas have no cellular connectivity. "I had zero cell phone service in the Reds meadow Valley," notes one visitor, making offline maps and information essential.
Weather variability: Temperature fluctuations occur rapidly, even in summer. "The weather was still quite chilly especially at night. The campground in general was very quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: Some locations offer dedicated fishing areas for children. At Big Pine Creek Campground, "The campground also has a small fishing pond for kids. We stayed here for the night before backpacking through the north fork trail."
Game facilities: Some cabin areas include recreational amenities. A visitor to Camp High Sierra mentions: "Clean showers, very family oriented, lots of kids. Game room."
Transportation options: Some areas offer shuttle services to nearby attractions. Near Reds Meadow Campground, "there was also a free shuttle from Reds Meadows to mammoth mountain ski lodge where you can catch a bus into Mammoth lakes."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be numerous in some locations. "There were lots of mosquitoes the whole time. Rock Creek Lake Resort just down the road has a store and restaurant serving pie."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some campgrounds offer both wooded and open RV sites. At Mammoth Mountain RV Park, one RVer advises: "I'm not a fan of the trailer camping because it's all cement and everyone is close together, but it's doable if need be. When tent camping, you're under beautiful trees which I love!"
Hookup positioning: Utility connections may require planning. A camper suggests: "We backed in pretty deep to the site as not to run into our neighbor, My long shore cord had to be stretched to get to the power box."
Early departure recommended: Popular dump stations can create traffic issues. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early."
Long-term supplies: Limited store options mean bringing essential items. "Most sites have better shade coverage. The walk in sites had a dirt pad for your tent, picnic table and bear locker. Your site has assigned parking."
