Ruby Lake Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Hiking into Ruby Lake means covering roughly 4 miles of backcountry trail before reaching lakeside campsites in Inyo National Forest. Backcountry permits are required to camp here. The route passes near Little Lakes Valley, a more popular destination close to the trailhead, though that detour involves a descent you'll need to climb back out of. Overnight use stays relatively light, with most visitors passing through as day hikers. Pets are welcome. Campers interested in pet-friendly camping spots near Inyo National Forest will find this area has several options at varying distances from the trailhead. The Mosquito Flat Trailhead walk in Campground sits 1.7 miles northeast and serves as a common staging point for trips into this corridor.

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Map & DirectionsRuby Lake Campground is located in California near Swall Meadows

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

37.4169931 N
118.7679774 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Pets

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews1 Camper Review - Ruby Lake Campground

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5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 8, 2020

Backcountry High Sierra Lake

Stayed here 2 nights while hiking to Mono pass and Summit Lake. Hike in about 4 miles to lakeside campsites. Wasn't too busy, some dayhikers, but not too many camping overnight. Nice peaceful trip to take in the Sierras. Can detour to the more popular Little Lakes Valley, near the trailhead, though just remember it's a bit of a descent you will have to hike back up out of. Need to get backcountry permits to camp in this area.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Ruby Lake Campground by Esther Y., August 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Ruby Lake Campground by Esther Y., August 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Ruby Lake Campground by Esther Y., August 8, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Ruby Lake Campground?

Ruby Lake Campground is a primitive backcountry site with minimal amenities. There are no developed facilities such as running water, electricity, or restrooms. Campers should be prepared to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste. The campground operates on Leave No Trace principles, so visitors should be self-sufficient. Always bring water filtration equipment as lake water would need to be treated before drinking.

Are there good fishing opportunities at Ruby Marshes near the campground?

While Ruby Lake itself may offer fishing opportunities typical of Sierra alpine lakes, there isn't specific information about Ruby Marshes fishing conditions near this particular campground. The Sierra backcountry lakes in this region generally support trout fishing. Anglers should check current fishing regulations and obtain appropriate California fishing licenses before their trip. Contact the local ranger district for up-to-date information on fish stocking and seasonal conditions.

Where is Ruby Lake Campground located in California?

Ruby Lake Campground is located in the Eastern Sierra region of California. It's situated approximately 4 miles from the trailhead that leads to Mono Pass. The campground sits in a beautiful alpine setting with the distinctive Sierra Nevada mountains as its backdrop. Access requires hiking in from the trailhead, making it a more secluded backcountry camping experience rather than a drive-in destination.

What do Ruby Lake Campground sites look like?

Ruby Lake Campground features lakeside campsites in a peaceful alpine setting. The sites are undeveloped and natural, characteristic of backcountry Sierra camping. They offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The campground is not typically crowded, providing a quiet wilderness experience. Sites are dispersed around the lake area rather than formally designated. Campers should be prepared to find their own suitable spot that adheres to backcountry camping regulations regarding distance from water sources.