Tinnemaha Creek Campground
00 review1360 N. Main St., BISHOP, California, 93514, United States
Tinnemaha Creek Campground
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$14 per night as reported by user reviews.
About this campground
Discover your perfect basecamp where Tinnemaha Creek winds through shaded campsites, creating a natural oasis beneath the towering Sierra Nevada peaks. This family-friendly haven invites adventurers of all ages to cast a line in crystal-clear waters, explore winding trails, scale dramatic rock faces, or rev up for thrilling ATV adventures across the surrounding public lands. Here, the gentle murmur of the creek mingles with birdsong as you settle into well-maintained sites complete with sturdy picnic tables and fire pits for evening gatherings. Clean, modern restroom facilities and the campground's reputation for tranquility make this an ideal retreat for both weekend warriors and those seeking a peaceful escape into nature.
The campground is designed for standard non-electric tent and RV camping, with a mix of reservation-based and first-come, first-served sites.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Sierra seasons at this versatile year-round destination. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfectly tempered by cooling creek breezes and the natural shade canopy overhead. As autumn arrives, crisp air and golden light create ideal camping conditions, while spring awakens the landscape with mild temperatures and wildflower blooms dotting the meadows. Even winter holds its charm here, with cold, clear nights perfect for stargazing and only the lightest dusting of snow transforming the campground into a serene wonderland. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer perhaps the most comfortable camping weather, with warm days, cool nights, and typically dry conditions.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the sight of sunlight filtering through a verdant canopy, where towering trees frame your campsite and create natural privacy between neighbors. The star attraction, Tinnemaha Creek, babbles alongside the campground, its cool waters teeming with rainbow trout during summer stocking season. Beyond your tent, the landscape unfolds in a tapestry of contrasts: intimate tree-covered canyons give way to expansive meadows where wildflowers dance in the breeze. Keep your camera ready for wildlife encounters – from the occasional snake sunning on a rock to free-ranging cattle that remind you of the area's ranching heritage. Every view is backdropped by the dramatic Sierra Nevada, its peaks changing color with the light from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionPerched along the life-giving waters of Tinnemaha Creek in the heart of Big Pine country, this campground serves as your gateway to one of California's most dramatic landscapes. The Sierra Nevada front rises majestically to the west, its granite faces and snow-capped peaks creating an ever-changing canvas throughout the day. The campground itself occupies a unique transition zone where mountain meets valley, featuring intimate tree-covered canyons that open into sweeping meadows. This diverse terrain, carved by ancient glaciers and modern waterways, offers endless opportunities for exploration across vast stretches of public lands. Whether you're drawn to the rugged mountain heights or the gentle creek valleys, you'll find yourself immersed in a geological wonderland that tells the story of millions of years of Earth's creative forces.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites accommodate equipment ranging from 25 to 50 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyReviewers noted that campsites are close together, with those along the creek being shadier but lacking complete privacy.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews recommend creekside spots for shade and scenic views. Site 18 is mentioned as a good alternative when creekside spots are already reserved.
Best CampsitesCreekside spots are particularly popular but are often reserved early.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
6guests per site
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutStandard non-electric campsites spread across the campground with some creekside options providing shade.
Walk-in AvailabilityMix of reserve-ahead and first-come-first-serve availability, as per user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules not specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, rock climbing, and ATV riding. The creek provides opportunities for relaxing and fishing for rainbow trout.
Hiking
Hiking trails are located less than a mile away and provide access to the striking Sierra High Country with tree-covered canyons and sprawling meadows.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
The creek is stocked with trout in the summer months, offering an excellent fishing experience. A reviewer mentioned catching beautiful rainbow trout in the creek.Biking
Bicycle riding is available within 10 miles of the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife frequently visits the area, and campers are advised to store food safely. Specific sightings included snakes and cows.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned.Water Sports
No information provided about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison ivy is common along the creek, as pointed out by user reviews. Windy conditions and wandering cows are occasional issues.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 16.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides dumpsters for trash disposal.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Tinnemaha Creek, which is stocked with trout during summer.
Common complaintsWindy conditions and holiday weekend crowding. Some users reported issues with campsite theft.
Campground Map
1360 N. Main St., BISHOP, California, 93514, United States
Driving directionsVia U.S. 395, 19-miles north of Independence, turn west on Fish Springs Road, one-half mile to Tinnemaha Road, turn west 2-miles to campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but user reviews suggest potential traffic and crowding during holiday weekends.Nearby places
Aberdeen (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Independence (19 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Bishop (approximately 22 miles, 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Aberdeen, 6 miles away, including groceries and basic camping needs.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tinnemaha Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviewers appreciate the natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent fishing at Tinnemaha Creek Campground. However, some notable issues include lack of potable water, occasional overcrowding, and disruptive behavior by a few visitors.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
'The creek and beautiful trees supply more than enough shade.' (Mary Tiche) 'Relax by the creek and get out your fishing poles; there are beautiful rainbow trout to be caught.' 'Picnic tables, fire...
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Common Concerns
'No potable water on-site, so bring your own.' 'Sites are close together, reducing privacy.' 'Families using the campground as a race track during holidays.'
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and a shade structure to stay comfortable during the day. Avoid holiday weekends if seeking a quieter experience. Creekside spots provide more shade.
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for fishing, with trout stocked in the creek. Reviewers enjoyed the warm weather in early summer but mentioned that the campground can get windy at times.
Camper Quotes
'Really nice campground with a beautiful creek.' (Skye Gebhart) 'Great little campground—sites are good size and the creek is definitely a plus.' (Tony Kennedy) 'Amazing gem! Warm weather next to...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 18 was highlighted as a suitable first-come, first-served site despite most creekside spots being reserved. (Skye Gebhart)
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and pet owners can feel comfortable bringing their pets to the campground.
Last updated August 10, 2025