The scenic Highway 395 corridor through the Eastern Sierra offers some of the most spectacular camping opportunities in the United States today. Travelers from all over the world flock to this region to experience the dramatic transition from high desert to alpine peaks. Our guide covers everything you need to know about finding the perfect campsite between Lone Pine and Bridgeport this year. We explore developed RV parks with full hookups and primitive dispersed camping spots that offer true solitude in nature. You will find detailed information about popular locations like Alabama Hills and the stunning June Lake Loop for your next adventure. Many campers seek out these spots for world class fishing and incredible hiking trails that lead deep into the mountains. This trending guide provides the most up to date information for travelers planning their ultimate road trip along Highway 395.
Latest Most Asked Forum discuss Info about campgrounds on highway 395\n\nWelcome to the ultimate living FAQ for Highway 395 camping which we have updated for the latest travel season. This guide addresses the most common questions from travelers who are planning their trek through the Eastern Sierra. Whether you are a first timer or a seasoned pro you will find valuable insights here today. We have gathered these answers from real world experiences and current forest service regulations to help you plan. From booking windows to bear safety we cover the essential topics that every camper needs to know before going. Our community of outdoor enthusiasts has contributed their best tips to ensure your road trip is absolutely perfect. So grab your map and let us dive into the details of camping along this majestic highway route.\n\nBeginner Camping Questions
What is the best time of year to camp on Highway 395?
The best time to visit is generally from late May through early October when the high mountain passes are open. You will find the most comfortable temperatures in June and September when the summer crowds have started to thin. Late autumn can be beautiful but you must be prepared for sudden snowstorms that can close the mountain roads.
Do I need a special permit for camping in the Eastern Sierra?
You generally do not need a permit for developed campgrounds but you must pay the required nightly use fees. However if you plan on dispersed camping in the backcountry or wilderness areas a permit is absolutely required here. Always check with the local ranger station to see if fire restrictions are currently in place for your area.
Are the campgrounds along 395 suitable for small children?
Many of the developed campgrounds like Convict Lake or June Lake are perfect for families with small children nearby. These sites often feature paved roads for biking and easy access to gentle hiking trails and calm water shores. I suggest looking for sites with flush toilets and running water if you are traveling with very young kids.
Is cell phone service available at most campsites?
Cell service is very spotty once you leave the main towns like Bishop or Mammoth Lakes during your trip. You should expect no service in deeper canyons or at higher elevation sites like those near the Tioga Pass. I recommend downloading offline maps and saving your reservation confirmation to your phone before you leave the main road.
RV and Hookup Facilities
Which campgrounds offer full RV hookups on Highway 395?
Private parks like the Bishop Westridge RV Park or the Mammoth Mountain RV Park offer full hookups for your rig. Most forest service campgrounds do not offer electricity or water at the individual sites but provide central dump stations. You should verify the maximum trailer length for each site before you make a final booking on the website.
Can I find dump stations easily along the highway route?
Yes there are several public dump stations located at rest areas and near the entrances of popular national forests. Many gas stations in Lone Pine and Lee Vining also offer these services for a small fee to travelers. I always try to dump my tanks in Bishop because the facilities there are usually very well maintained.
Are there any height restrictions for RVs on 395?
The main highway is very wide and accessible for even the largest Class A motorhomes and long fifth wheels. However some of the access roads to high alpine lakes can be narrow and winding with low hanging trees. You should be especially careful when driving into the more primitive canyons or older forest service loops during your trip.
Is it easy to find propane refills along the road?
Propane is widely available at many hardware stores and specialized gas stations in the major towns along the 395. I recommend filling your tanks in Lone Pine or Bishop before heading up into the higher mountain reaches nearby. Most RV parks also offer onsite propane refills for their guests which is very convenient for long term stays.
Primitive and Dispersed Spots
Where can I find free dispersed camping on Highway 395?
The Alabama Hills and the volcanic tablelands near Bishop are some of the most popular areas for free camping today. You must stay in designated spots and follow all pack in pack out rules to protect these beautiful lands. I think that finding a quiet spot away from the crowds is the best way to experience nature.
Do I need a 4WD vehicle for dispersed camping?
While many spots are accessible by standard cars a high clearance vehicle is definitely recommended for the more remote areas. Some of the dirt roads can become very sandy or rocky which might be difficult for a small sedan. I always tell people to scout the road on foot if they are unsure about the terrain ahead.
Fishing and Lake Access
What are the best fishing campgrounds on the 395?
Convict Lake and the various campgrounds on the June Lake Loop are legendary for their trout fishing opportunities each year. You can walk right from your tent to the shoreline and start casting your line in the early morning. I have had great luck using powerbait or small lures when the fish are active near the surface.
Do I need a California fishing license to fish near camp?
Yes anyone over the age of sixteen must have a valid California fishing license to fish in these waters. You can easily purchase a one day or annual license at most general stores and bait shops along the highway. Make sure to keep your license on you at all times because rangers do check frequently in summer.
Seasonal and Weather Tips
How cold does it get at night during the summer?
Even in the middle of July the temperatures at high elevations can drop into the thirties or forties at night. You should always bring a high quality sleeping bag and plenty of warm layers for the evening campfire sessions. I have seen it snow in August at some of the higher camps so always be prepared.
Are there any year round campgrounds on Highway 395?
Lower elevation campgrounds near Lone Pine and Bishop often stay open year round for those who enjoy winter desert camping. However most of the mountain sites close down once the first major snow falls in late October or November. I love visiting in the winter because the crowds are gone and the scenery is very peaceful.
Reservation and Booking Advice
How far in advance should I book my campsite?
You should try to book your site exactly six months in advance through the official government reservation website for best results. Popular weekends like July Fourth or Labor Day will often sell out within minutes of the window opening up. I suggest having multiple tabs open on your computer to increase your chances of snagging a prime spot.
Are there many first come first served campgrounds left?
Yes several smaller campgrounds in the Inyo National Forest still operate on a first come first served basis for travelers. You should plan to arrive by Tuesday or Wednesday if you hope to find an open spot for the weekend. I think that these sites often have more character and offer a bit more privacy than the big parks.
Pet Friendly Camping Rules
Can I bring my dog to campgrounds on Highway 395?
Most campgrounds allow pets as long as they are kept on a leash at all times while in the park. You should never leave your dog unattended in a tent or vehicle because of the heat and wildlife concerns. I always bring a long lead so my dog can relax near the picnic table while we eat.
Hiking and Trail Proximity
Which campgrounds have the best access to hiking trails?
Campgrounds in the Rock Creek Canyon or near the Mammoth Lakes Basin offer immediate access to world class alpine trails. You can hike to high elevation lakes or even start your journey into the John Muir Wilderness from here. I find that staying at Whitney Portal is best if you are planning to climb the peak.
Food Storage and Wildlife
Are bear boxes required at all 395 campgrounds?
Most campgrounds in the forested areas require the use of bear resistant food lockers which are provided at each site. You must keep all scented items including toiletries and trash locked up whenever you are not using them for safety. I have seen bears in the camps before and they are very clever at finding food.
Hidden Gems and Secret Spots
What is a good quiet campground away from the 395 traffic?
Big Pine Creek Canyon offers some beautiful campgrounds that feel much more secluded than the ones right next to the highway. The sound of the rushing creek will drown out any distant road noise and help you sleep very soundly. It is a bit of a drive up the canyon but the scenery is totally worth it.
\n\nStill have questions? Reach out to the local ranger station for the most current conditions. The most popular related answer is that the best site is the one where you can see the stars clearly!","summary":"What are the best free campgrounds on Highway 395?
The Alabama Hills and the volcanic tablelands near Bishop are the premier locations for free dispersed camping along the corridor. You must ensure you are in a designated area and have a valid California campfire permit for any stoves or fires. These spots offer incredible views of the Sierra Nevada but lack water and restroom facilities so come prepared.
How do I find RV parks with full hookups near Bishop?
Bishop features several highly rated private RV parks like the Brown`s Town Campground or the Highlands RV Park for travelers. These locations provide full electricity water and sewer connections along with amenities like laundry and hot showers for guests. It is best to book these well in advance during the popular mule days event or fall colors season.
Are there any campgrounds open year round on Highway 395?
Lower elevation sites such as Boulder Creek RV Resort in Lone Pine or Pleasant Valley Pit near Bishop stay open throughout the winter. These desert locations offer milder temperatures while the high alpine sites are buried under several feet of snow until the spring thaw. They are perfect for winter climbers and those exploring the Manzanar National Historic Site during the off season.
Where can I camp near the June Lake Loop during summer?
Oh Ridge and June Lake Campground are the most popular spots located directly within the loop with easy access to the water. These sites fill up very quickly so you should check for cancellations on the reservation site daily if you missed the window. They offer a classic alpine experience with fishing boating and hiking trails right outside your tent door each morning.
What is the best way to book a site at Convict Lake?
You must use the Recreation.gov website to secure a site at the Convict Lake Campground up to six months before your arrival. This is one of the most sought after locations on the 395 so being online at exactly 7 AM PST is necessary. If it is full you can look for nearby options in the McGee Creek area as a backup.
Is dispersed camping allowed in the Alabama Hills area now?
Yes dispersed camping is still allowed but it is now strictly limited to designated sites marked with signage to protect the landscape. You can no longer just pull off anywhere so look for the brown posts that indicate a legal camping spot for the night. This helps preserve the beauty of the rock formations and the historical movie filming locations for future generations.
What amenities can I expect at campgrounds near Mammoth Lakes?
Most developed campgrounds near Mammoth offer paved pads fire rings picnic tables and shared bear resistant food lockers for every guest. You will typically find flush toilets and potable water spigots located throughout the loops for your convenience during your stay. Some of the larger forest service sites even offer seasonal educational programs led by rangers at the amphitheaters.
"}What are the best campgrounds on Highway 395 for a family road trip through the beautiful Eastern Sierra landscape? I have spent many summers driving this iconic road and I absolutely love every single mile of it. Honestly it is hard to choose just one favorite spot when the landscape changes so much every hour. You will find that the best sites often fill up many months in advance during the busy season. But do not worry because I have some secret tips that will help you find a great spot. If you want to resolve your camping search quickly then you should look at the Mammoth Lakes area. Many related search terms suggest that people are looking for the best fishing spots near the 395 campgrounds.
The Best Desert Camping Near Lone Pine
The Alabama Hills offer a unique experience where you can camp among massive boulders and view Mount Whitney nearby. It is like the Coachella of camping out here because everyone wants the best view of the high peaks. I think that waking up to the sunrise hitting the Sierra Crest is something everyone should see once. Most sites here are now restricted to specific areas to protect the fragile desert environment and historical sites. You should always bring plenty of water because the desert sun can be quite intense during the middle day. In my experience you need to arrive early on Thursday to snag the best spots for the whole weekend.
Tuttle Creek Campground
- Large sites that can accommodate most RV sizes and long trailers with ease during the busy summer months.
- Incredible views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to the famous hiking trails of the Eastern Sierra.
- Very affordable nightly rates compared to the more developed private parks found further north along the highway corridor.
- No hookups are available here so you must be prepared for a dry camping experience under the stars.
High Alpine Gems Near Mammoth Lakes
Convict Lake is probably one of the most photographed spots in the entire state of California for good reason. The water is crystal clear and the mountain backdrop looks like a movie set from an old western film. I have stayed here many times and the fishing is always fantastic if you have the right bait. You should definitely check the reservation system early because this place sells out faster than a pop concert tour. It is a great home base for exploring the town of Mammoth Lakes and all the local shops. Honestly I think the hiking trail around the lake is the perfect way to spend a quiet morning.
Twin Lakes Campground
- Situated right on the water with amazing access to boating and fishing for all types of mountain trout.
- General store nearby provides all the snacks and firewood you might need for a cozy night by the fire.
- Close proximity to the town of Mammoth Lakes makes it easy to grab a nice dinner or supplies.
- Bear boxes are strictly required here because the local wildlife is very active throughout the entire camping season.
If you are heading further north then the June Lake Loop is an absolute must see for any camper. The scenery there is often compared to Switzerland because the mountains rise so sharply from the turquoise lake water. I have found that Oh Ridge Campground offers the best views of the entire basin from its high perch. It can get a bit windy up there so make sure your tent stakes are driven deep into ground. But the sunset colors reflecting off the water make every bit of effort worth it in the end. Does that make sense to you or are you looking for something a bit more secluded?
Includes top rated campgrounds in Lone Pine Bishop Mammoth Lakes and Lee Vining with detailed amenity lists for RVs. Provides specific locations for high altitude alpine camping and desert spots near historical landmarks like the Manzanar site. Offers advice on reservation windows and how to secure first come first served spots during the busy summer season. Features tips on bear safety and food storage requirements for campers staying in the Inyo National Forest regions. Highlights proximity to natural hot springs and famous photography locations like the Mobius Arch and Convict Lake shoreline.