The stretch of Highway 395 between Independence and Big Pine provides access to some of the most spectacular camping in the Eastern Sierra.
From high-elevation campgrounds beneath 14,000-foot peaks to quiet campsites tucked into the White Mountains, visitors can choose between alpine lakes, mountain creeks, dark skies, and easy access to some of California’s best hiking and fishing.
Camping Near Independence
Onion Valley Campground
Few campgrounds in California can match the setting of Onion Valley.
Located at nearly 9,200 feet above Independence, the campground sits beneath granite peaks and towering pines while providing access to Kearsarge Pass, the John Muir Trail, and Kings Canyon National Park.
For hikers and backpackers, this is one of the premier campgrounds in the Sierra.
Independence Creek Campground
Located just west of town along Oak Creek, Independence Creek Campground offers a peaceful setting surrounded by cottonwoods and mountain views.
The campground provides easy access to both Independence and nearby recreation opportunities throughout the Sierra Nevada.
Taboose Creek Campground
Situated at the base of the Sierra west of Independence, Taboose Creek Campground serves as a gateway to one of the most challenging trail systems in the range.
The campground offers a quiet setting beneath towering peaks and provides access to the Taboose Pass Trail.
Goodale Creek Campground
Often overlooked by visitors rushing toward larger destinations, Goodale Creek Campground offers a quieter camping experience with beautiful views of both the Sierra Nevada and Inyo Mountains.
It’s a great option for travelers looking for a little more solitude.
Camping Near Big Pine
Big Pine Creek Campground
Located along Big Pine Creek Road, this campground serves as a gateway to the famous Big Pine Lakes Trail.
Towering pines, rushing water, and easy access to one of the Eastern Sierra’s most iconic hikes make this one of the most popular campgrounds in the region.
Glacier Lodge Campground
Located at the end of Big Pine Creek Road, Glacier Lodge Campground sits beneath the dramatic peaks of the Sierra Nevada.
The campground offers immediate access to hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and the Big Pine Lakes Trail while providing some of the best mountain scenery in the Eastern Sierra.
Upper Sage Flat Campground
Situated in the White Mountains above Big Pine, Upper Sage Flat offers a quieter camping experience away from the crowds.
The campground sits among pinyon pines and junipers with expansive views across the Owens Valley toward the Sierra crest.
Lower Sage Flat Campground
Located just below Upper Sage Flat, this campground provides similar scenery with easy access to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and White Mountains.
It’s an excellent option for visitors looking to explore a different side of the Eastern Sierra.
Grandview Campground
One of California’s most scenic campgrounds, Grandview sits at approximately 8,600 feet in the White Mountains.
Visitors enjoy cooler summer temperatures, exceptional stargazing, and convenient access to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. Sunset views across the Owens Valley toward the Sierra Nevada are difficult to beat.
Choosing Your Basecamp
Big Pine’s campgrounds provide easy access to alpine lakes, glaciers, and the White Mountains.
Independence’s campgrounds place visitors closer to Kearsarge Pass, Onion Valley, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Eastern Sierra.
The good news is there really isn’t a wrong choice.
