Camping opportunities near Toms Place, California extend beyond established campgrounds into dispersed areas along the eastern Sierra. The region sits at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night year-round. Winter access becomes limited at many sites from October through April due to snow accumulation and seasonal closures.
What to do
Fishing at local creeks: East Fork Campground provides access to Rock Creek where anglers find success. "Near Toms Place, Hwy 395, Bishop, Mammoth, Rock Creek Lake and Mosquito Flats trailhead. Sites along Rock Creek. Sites numbered in the 100's closest to the creek," notes Randall G. at East Fork Campground.
Hot springs exploration: Several natural hot springs exist within driving distance of camping areas. At Crab Cooker Hotsprings, campers report varying temperatures throughout the year. "The crab cooker hot spring was a little confusing to find. Once you find it... it's TINY. 3 people comfortably. And HOT HOT HOTTTT!" explains Rachel W.
Creek hiking and rock scrambling: Several campgrounds offer immediate access to small hikes. "Right by the creek with nice trails along it and if you're brave a little rock scrambling you can go upward," explains Marcia M. about Tuff Campground.
What campers like
Creekside camping spots: Many campers prefer sites situated alongside flowing water. At Tuff Campground, visitors appreciate the natural water features: "This is a great little campground located about 200 yards from Route 395. It's located in a small ravine so you don't hear any traffic noise... The best feature of the park is the little stream that runs thru it," reports Berton M.
Clean facilities at higher elevations: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept restrooms despite remote locations. "East Fork Campground is an awesome spot with a lot of campsites. The bathrooms are very clean and probably the nicest I've seen in California (in the Eastern Sierra)," says Zack R.
Winter camping options: Some sites remain accessible during colder months. "Went at the end of October with some snow! The lake is gorgeous when you can see the snow. Highly recommended for a late season trip. Bundle up though!!" advises Jill F. about Convict Lake Campground.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent camping areas near Toms Place. "I did notice some Bear Scat in our campground after a long day of hiking, but we hadn't left food out so everything was left untouched," reports Zack R. about East Fork Campground.
Early season weather variability: Spring camping brings unpredictable conditions. "We camped early in the season for opening weekend for Fishmas. Hot showers, heated pool and spa," notes Erin M. about alternative options at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground when higher elevations remain too cold.
Site selection strategy: Not all sites offer equal privacy or shade coverage. At Sherwin Creek, a camper advises: "Stayed on lot 51. Sunny until around 4, then quite shaded. Large lot with space for the dog to roam around on. Only one side has a neighbor, so it's quite quiet."
Insect preparation: Lower elevation sites near water sources experience significant insect activity. "There were a lot of bugs, so bring extra bug spray," advises Zack R.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for children: Several campsites offer safe water play areas. "We set up our tents with a view of the hot springs. The hot spring was kind of broken when we were there so that was a bummer, but you could hike out to the slightly muddy creek for some hot water," shares Alyssa L. about dispersed camping options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe local animals from safe distances. At Browns Owens River Campground, "free ranging cattle" sometimes visit: "First night they were on the opposite bank, lots of mooing in the early AM. But the next night, a calf got separated from the herd across the river and they were noisy and agitated and in our campsite."
Varied terrain exploration: Multiple elevation options allow families to adjust camping conditions based on weather. "We intended to stay here, but most of the sites have zero shade and no trees. There are a few along the creek but they were all occupied," warns Deb H. about East Fork, highlighting the importance of timing arrival for better site selection.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility limitations: RV drivers should research road conditions carefully. At McGee Creek Campground, "We didn't want to take our camper and trailer combo down the side road to the hot springs but it was only a short bike ride. We camped in a wide spot on the road, but only 2 cars went by," shares Cindy L.
Dump station timing: Plan departure logistics carefully at busier sites. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early," advises Patrick J.
Generator restrictions: Most forest service sites have strict noise limitations. "Generator hours till 10pm but thankfully only hear sounds of nature at 7pm," notes Leonard H. about Convict Lake.
