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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Upper Deadman Creek

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Upper Deadman Creek, near Inyo National Forest, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a bit of nature and solitude. This area offers a free camping experience, perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle without breaking the bank.

The location is surrounded by beautiful scenery, with a nearby creek and plenty of trees providing shade and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors have noted that it’s a great place for off-roading and ATV adventures, making it a hit for thrill-seekers. As one camper put it, “Great dispersed campground for those looking for more nature and privacy.”

While the amenities are basic, you’ll find picnic tables and fire pits to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars. Just a heads up, the vault restrooms can get a bit rough, but the camp host does a commendable job keeping them clean. Many campers appreciate the chance to stay for up to 14 days, allowing for a longer escape into the wild.

If you’re up for a little adventure, there are hiking trails nearby that lead you deeper into the stunning landscape. Just remember to bring your own water, as there’s no drinking water available on-site. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, Upper Deadman Creek has a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat.

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Location

Upper Deadman Creek is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.72100495 N
119.01111428 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Pine Glen

Pine Glen

12 min away

Devils Postpile

Devils Postpile

24 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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 Upper Deadman Creek needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 10, 2021

Great place

Don’t really have any complaints with this campground. It’s free but because of that it’s not the most developed and it’s down a long gravel road. Other than that it’s in a nice spot with beautiful surroundings and we had a great time here.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by preston , October 10, 2021
  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by preston , October 10, 2021
Reviewed Jun. 20, 2021

Great dispersed camp spot

Great dispersed campground for those looking for more nature and privacy. Great place to go atv or off roading. Nice little creek near by and hiking trails. Only bad thing is the vault restrooms are extremely nasty and smell even worse but overall everything else is good. No running water so bring your own water.

Site11
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by Sandra S., June 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by Sandra S., June 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by Sandra S., June 20, 2021
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2020

Dispersed camping nearby is better than campground

We were originally supposed to be at the East Fork Campground but a wildfire shut it down the day we arrived. So we drove to Deadman and nothing. And frankly the campsites were to close together and the toilet was gross. So we went maybe a half mile farther up the road and camped on a dispersed spot, by ourselves on the edge of lovely little deadman creek.

  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by Marc H., August 14, 2020
  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by Marc H., August 14, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2020

Off the beaten path

Free site, can stay for up to 14 days. Some nice flat sites, lots of trees and a creek nearby. There were pit toilets that were a bit full at the time, so the smell was quite strong, but the camp host did a great job at keeping them clean. He was also very knowledgeable and friendly. The road to get in was gravel and was a bit bumpy, but they were doing maintenance on it on the day we left. The back sites have more trees and shade than the front. Half of it was closed at the timely, seemingly for Covid.

  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by Alex P., August 11, 2020
  • Review photo of Upper Deadman Creek by Alex P., August 11, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Upper Deadman Campground located in California?

Upper Deadman Campground is located in the Eastern Sierra region of California, near Mammoth. The campground sits in a forested area with beautiful mountain surroundings and is positioned alongside Deadman Creek, which runs through the vicinity. This dispersed camping area offers a more secluded setting away from more developed campgrounds in the region. The natural environment features plenty of trees, providing shade and privacy for campers seeking a more remote outdoor experience in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

How do I access Upper Deadman Campground via Deadman Creek Road?

To access Upper Deadman Campground, you'll need to travel along Deadman Creek Road, which is a gravel road that extends for some distance. The road can be somewhat rough in places, so vehicles with good clearance are recommended. The campground is approximately a half-mile past the main Deadman Campground area. If you find the main campground area too crowded or not to your liking, continuing further up the road will lead you to more dispersed camping options with greater privacy. Four-wheel drive isn't strictly necessary in good conditions, but it could be helpful depending on recent weather and road maintenance.

What facilities and amenities are available at Upper Deadman Campground near Mammoth?

Upper Deadman Campground offers basic facilities including vault toilets, though they may need maintenance at times. The campground is free to use with a 14-day maximum stay limit. You'll find several flat camping sites nestled among trees with a creek nearby. There is no running water available, so visitors must bring their own water supply. The campground has a camp host who helps maintain the facilities and can provide local information. This is primarily a rustic, nature-focused campground without modern amenities, making it ideal for those seeking a more primitive camping experience.