Within BLM Land managed by the Bishop Field Office, Shepherd Hot Springs operates as a dispersed camping area that draws visitors to its natural thermal features and Sierra Nevada mountain views. The dirt access road requires high-clearance vehicles due to bumpy conditions.
Sites cluster closely together in the relatively small area around the hot springs, creating a busy atmosphere with competing vehicles and tents during peak times. Cell service remains available, and both pets and alcohol are permitted. The compact layout means noise levels can be elevated when multiple groups occupy the space simultaneously. For those planning extended exploration of the Eastern Sierra region, camping near Mammoth Lakes provides additional options. High-clearance vehicle access is strongly recommended for the approach road.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsShepherd Hot Springs is located in California near Inyo National Forest
Coordinates
37.66669482 N
118.8038932 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 6/15/26
Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 6/15/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 6/15/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 6/15/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 6/15/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 6/15/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Shepherd Hot Springs needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 5 hrs 9 min from Visalia, CA
- 5 hrs 17 min from Hanford, CA
- 5 hrs 32 min from Merced, CA
- 5 hrs 39 min from Fresno, CA
