A gravel road leads to this free dispersed camping area along Deadman Creek within the Inyo National Forest, where campers can stay up to 14 days. The bumpy access road requires careful driving but opens to scattered sites among tall fir trees, with the back locations offering more shade than those near the entrance.
Sites spread across relatively flat ground with picnic tables and fire rings, though campers must bring their own water since no running water is available. The nearby creek provides a water source for filtering and adds ambient sound to the camping experience. "No running water so bring your own water," notes Sandra S.. Vault toilets serve the area, though multiple reviewers mention they can develop strong odors when full. A camp host maintains the facilities and provides local knowledge about trails and off-road opportunities.
The area attracts ATV riders and off-road enthusiasts who use it as a base for exploring the surrounding forest roads. Hiking trails branch out from the campground into the national forest. Cell service reaches most sites, and both campfires and pets are permitted. Upper Deadman Campground sits just north for those preferring developed camping with more amenities.
Bring extra water, firewood if desired, and prepare for a bumpy final approach on the gravel access road.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsUpper Deadman Creek is located in California near Devils Postpile National Monument
Coordinates
37.72100495 N
119.01111428 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 6/4/26
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/4/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 6/4/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/4/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark 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.
Drive Time
- 5 hrs 23 min from Merced, CA
- 5 hrs 24 min from Visalia, CA
- 5 hrs 32 min from Hanford, CA
- 5 hrs 54 min from Fresno, CA
