Camping is one of the best ways to experience Mammoth Lakes. Wake up beneath towering pines, spend the day exploring alpine lakes and mountain trails, and fall asleep under some of California’s darkest skies.
The challenge isn’t finding a beautiful place to camp. It’s finding an available campsite.
Many of Mammoth’s campgrounds book months in advance during summer and fall, so reservations are strongly recommended.
Lake Mary Campground
If you only camp in Mammoth once, start here.
Located in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, Lake Mary Campground offers easy access to hiking trails, fishing, paddleboarding, and some of the area’s most iconic scenery. The campground sits among towering pines with Lake Mary just steps away, making it one of the most popular camping destinations in the Eastern Sierra.
Twin Lakes Campground
One of the most scenic campgrounds in Mammoth, Twin Lakes sits beneath dramatic granite peaks at the end of Lake Mary Road. Anglers, hikers, photographers, and paddlers all gravitate toward this area thanks to its easy lake access and postcard-worthy views.
New Shady Rest Campground
Conveniently located near town, New Shady Rest offers larger campsites, modern facilities, and easy access to Mammoth’s restaurants, shops, and trails. It’s a great option for families looking to balance outdoor adventure with nearby amenities.
Old Shady Rest Campground
A little quieter than New Shady Rest, this forested campground offers a more traditional camping experience while still being just minutes from town. The towering Jeffrey pines provide plenty of shade and help create a classic Eastern Sierra camping atmosphere.
Coldwater Campground
Located at the end of the Mammoth Lakes Basin, Coldwater Campground provides direct access to some of Mammoth’s best hiking. Popular trails to Duck Lake, Emerald Lake, Skelton Lake, and the John Muir Wilderness begin nearby, making this a favorite among hikers and backpackers.
Convict Lake Campground
Located just south of Mammoth Lakes, Convict Lake is one of the most beautiful camping destinations in the Eastern Sierra. The dramatic mountain backdrop, excellent fishing, and easy lakeside walking trail make it a favorite for families and photographers alike.
Reds Meadow Campground
Tucked into the Reds Meadow Valley below Mammoth Mountain, this campground provides access to Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls, and numerous hiking trails. During summer, access is often managed through the Reds Meadow Shuttle system.
Best Campgrounds for Hikers
Mammoth Mountain RV Park
Located near the heart of Mammoth Lakes, Mammoth Mountain RV Park offers full hookups, tent sites, modern facilities, and easy access to restaurants, shops, and outdoor recreation. If you’re traveling by RV and want convenience, this is often the first place to look.
McGee Creek RV Park & Campground
Located south of Mammoth in a beautiful meadow setting, McGee Creek offers a quieter experience with creekside views, mountain scenery, and easy access to hiking and fishing. It’s a great choice for travelers looking to escape the crowds while still remaining close to Mammoth Lakes.
Best Campgrounds for Families
- New Shady Rest Campground
- Old Shady Rest Campground
- Lake Mary Campground
- Convict Lake Campground
These campgrounds offer easy access, family-friendly amenities, and plenty of nearby activities.
Best Campgrounds for Hikers
- Coldwater Campground
- Twin Lakes Campground
- Reds Meadow Campground
- Lake Mary Campground
More Campgrounds
- Crowley Lake Campground – Popular with anglers, boaters, and families looking for a quieter experience south of Mammoth.
- Pine City Campground – A quieter option tucked into the Mammoth Lakes Basin near Lake Mary.
- Minaret Falls Campground – Located in Reds Meadow Valley with access to waterfalls, hiking trails, and river corridors.
- Tuff Campground – Situated near Rock Creek with a scenic creek running through camp and easy access to the high country.
- Lake George Campground – Small, scenic campground offering immediate access to fishing and hiking around Lake George.
Know Before You Go
Mammoth Lakes sits at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level. Nights can be cold even during summer, afternoon thunderstorms are common, and weather conditions can change quickly.
Store food properly, respect wildlife, follow campfire restrictions, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Fire restrictions are common throughout the Eastern Sierra and can change throughout the season.
Reserve Early
The best campsites in Mammoth often book months in advance, especially between June and October. If you’re planning a summer or fall visit, reserve early and build flexibility into your itinerary.
With dozens of alpine lakes, miles of hiking trails, and easy access to the Sierra Nevada high country, Mammoth Lakes remains one of California’s premier camping destinations.
