Camping near Swall Meadows offers access to the eastern Sierra Nevada at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures reaching the 90s during day and dropping to the 40s at night. Fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant aspen colors, making it a popular time for anglers targeting rainbow and brown trout in surrounding lakes and streams.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: McGee Creek RV Park provides seasonal access to prime fishing spots from late April through October. "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 one regular visitor to McGee Creek RV Park & Campground.
Stargazing at higher elevation sites: The clear mountain air provides exceptional night sky viewing, particularly at less developed sites. A camper at Pleasant Valley Pit Campground described the experience: "At first blush pit fees barren and desolate, but the vast beauty looking across the dessert ground and mountain ridge is simply stunning to wake up to and watch the sunset."
Hiking nearby trail systems: Multiple hiking trails can be accessed directly from campgrounds. "Loved all the bike trails. Easy to catch a bus into town or take a quick 5 min drive," explains a visitor to Mammoth Mountain RV Park. Another camper noted the convenience: "The location is right near town and not a far drive from most of the lakes."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds near Swall Meadows maintain clean facilities even during peak seasons. "Bathrooms and showers are very clean. We stayed in the large spaces that have electricity and water only. Very quiet and nice," reports a visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Creek-side camping options: Several sites feature stream or creek access. A guest at Creekside RV Park shared: "The creek is lovely and rushes by with the nice sounds of a creek. Be aware that the water is fast and cold." Another visitor commented, "Beautiful waterfront spots adjacent to Bishop creek, toilets, showers, fish cleaning station and these days most importantly WiFi."
Mountain views from campsites: The Eastern Sierra provides dramatic backdrops at most camping areas. A camper at Horton Creek Campground described waking up to "snow capped peaks. Nice clean camping area and sites are not right on top of each other."
What you should know
Wind conditions affect camping comfort: Several campgrounds experience significant wind, particularly in open areas. A camper at Horton Creek Campground — Alabama Hills noted their site had "no shade, clean vault toilets. Room between campsites," while another visitor advised "if you have flexibility for your camping dates, check the weather forecast and plan accordingly."
Insect activity varies by season: Lower elevation sites can have significant mosquito activity during summer months. "Camped here once during the warmer months and was eaten alive by mosquitoes!!! We had everything including candles and bugs spray....but nothing will stop the storm of mosquitoes from eating you alive at sunset," warned a visitor to Pleasant Valley Pit Campground.
Wildlife encounters are common: Bears are active throughout the region. A camper at Mammoth Mountain RV Park warned, "Make sure to use the bear box as we had a bear come into our camp the last night." Another noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Stocked fishing ponds for children: Some campgrounds offer fishing opportunities specifically designed for younger anglers. At Creekside RV Park, a visitor highlighted that "There's a stocked pond for fishing that is really good for kids." Another mentioned that "Old school campground with a mountain feel. Small general store and fishing pond."
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: June Lake RV Park provides family-friendly amenities within walking distance of water recreation. "Adjacent marina lets you rent kayaks, paddle boards, or pontoon boats. Easy walk to June Lake Brewery," according to a recent visitor.
Indoor pool options for colder days: Some RV parks offer swimming facilities that work regardless of mountain weather. "Loved the indoor pool. Nice clean campground. Looking forward to going back," shared a family that stayed at Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: RV sites near Swall Meadows, California range from basic to full-service concrete pads. A visitor to Highlands RV Park noted, "Sites are super clean, paved, and extremely level. Full hookups! 30/50 amp."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "Site WiFi is legit as is T-Mobile and AT&T service. Staff is great and accommodating," reported a camper at Highlands RV Park, while others mentioned spotty service in more remote locations.
Varied RV site configurations: Some parks have separate sections for different camping styles. "Choose to camp under the shade of the pines on a dirt pad or in the clean, parking lot style section," explained a visitor to Mammoth Mountain RV Park, adding "Spots large enough for almost all size rigs. Tents too."
