RV camping near Toms Place, California sits at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet in the Eastern Sierra region. Temperatures can drop to 22 degrees overnight even during summer months, creating challenging conditions for unprepared campers. Most campgrounds close seasonally from late October through April due to heavy mountain snowfall and freezing conditions.
What to do
Fishing at stocked ponds: McGee Creek RV Park & Campground offers creek access directly from campsites. "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 Patti A.
Explore hiking trails: The mountains surrounding Creekside RV Park provide hiking opportunities with options ranging from creek-side walks to mountain ascents. "We tromped through some 'trails' and saw garter snakes, chipmunks, mice, and bats at dusk," shares Jennifer W.
Water recreation: Lake-based activities available at June Lake, approximately 30 miles from Toms Place. "Adjacent marina lets you rent kayaks, paddle boards, or pontoon boats. Easy walk to June Lake Brewery," writes Marcus K.
What campers like
Mountain views: Lake Crowley BLM Campground offers panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada range. "Overlooking Hwy 395, but quiet and with great views. Sites are fairly spread out," reports Gary G., adding that the campground has pit toilets and bear boxes at each site.
Stargazing conditions: Dark skies make for exceptional stargazing. "Place was very quiet, very dark at night. The stars were amazing," notes Isaac R. about Crowley Lake RV Park, making it ideal for night sky observation.
Clean facilities: Highlands RV Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Sites are super clean, paved, and extremely level. Full hookups! 30/50 amp. Staff are friendly and kind! We woke up to a beautiful 360degree Mountain View!" writes Brodie D.
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears frequent campgrounds in this region. "Make sure to use the bear box as we had a bear come into our camp the last night," warns Annelyse at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground. Bear boxes are provided at most sites, but proper food storage remains critical.
Cell service variability: Connection strength depends on specific location and carrier. "Site WiFi is legit as is T-Mobile and AT&T service," reports Jared C. about Highlands RV Park, though other locations have limited connectivity.
Mosquito preparation: Some areas experience heavy mosquito activity. "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," warns Jen H. about Pleasant Valley Pit Campground.
Fire restrictions: Policies vary significantly between campgrounds. Crowley Lake RV Park prohibits fires entirely, while others allow them in designated rings. "The fire rings are movable which was kind of nice. We were easily able to accommodate our large group," notes Jennifer W. about Creekside RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: June Lake RV Park provides safe water access suitable for children. "Adjacent marina lets you rent kayaks, paddle boards, or pontoon boats," notes Marcus K., making it ideal for family water activities.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Mammoth Mountain RV Park offers recreational areas designed for children. "Great bathroom amenities and swimming pool/spa. Playground. Walking distance to town. Great walking paths," reports Jessica L.
Consider tent section layouts: Tent camping offers more natural surroundings at some RV parks. "I really enjoyed tent camping here. 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!" shares Christina R.
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Plan dump station visits strategically. "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. about his stay at Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Site selection considerations: At Creekside RV Park, proximity to bathrooms may affect experience. "Our spot was across from the bathrooms and trash. There were not bear boxes on the campsites," notes Jennifer W., suggesting requesting sites further from high-traffic areas.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require preparation. "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. It was also pretty chilly for what we thought was still the fall season, only 30 degrees when we arrived and 22 when we woke up in our tent the next morning," shares Fay M.
