Taboose Creek Campground
00 review1360 N. Main St., BISHOP, California, 93514, United States
Taboose 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; self-registration required.
About this campground
Nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada, Taboose Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. Here, families gather under impossibly clear night skies where countless stars illuminate the darkness, while days are filled with the splash of fishing lines in crystal waters, the crunch of hiking boots on mountain trails, and the thrill of rock climbing on ancient granite faces. For those seeking motorized adventure, ATV trails wind through the surrounding landscape, offering yet another way to explore this remarkable corner of California's high country.
Taboose Creek Campground primarily offers primitive camping options, including sites for tents and RVs. No hookups are provided for RVs. Group camping and luxury accommodations like glamping are not offered.
Historical SignificanceTaboose Creek has earned a unique place in the world of scientific discovery, with the prestigious California Institute of Technology regularly selecting this campground as an outdoor classroom for their geology field trips. Here, where ancient geological forces have sculpted the landscape over millions of years, students and professors alike come to read the stories written in stone, making the campground a living laboratory where the Earth's dramatic history comes alive.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Taboose Creek into a sun-drenched haven where the high desert climate delivers reliably warm, dry days perfect for outdoor adventures—though visitors should come prepared for dusty conditions and the occasional mosquito companion during peak season. As autumn arrives, the crowds thin and temperatures moderate, creating ideal conditions for those seeking solitude. Winter brings a dramatic transformation as snow occasionally dusts the landscape and temperatures plummet, turning the campground into a crisp, quiet wonderland for the most intrepid cold-weather campers.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's position in the Sierra Nevada's eastern slope places it in that magical zone where desert meets mountain, creating a unique high-altitude environment that shapes every aspect of the camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryTaboose Creek flows like a silver ribbon through this enchanting landscape, its waters providing a constant soundtrack to your camping adventure. Tree-covered canyons create intimate pockets of shade and shelter, while sprawling meadows open up to reveal panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada's jagged skyline. This dramatic tapestry of ecosystems—from riparian corridors along the creek to alpine vistas above—creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty that shifts with each passing hour and season.
Geological RegionPositioned in the dramatic rain shadow of the Sierra Nevada, Taboose Creek Campground sits at the intersection of powerful geological forces. Here, tree-covered canyons carved by ancient waters wind between sprawling meadows that stretch toward the base of towering granite peaks. The namesake Taboose Creek has spent millennia sculpting this landscape, creating a diverse ecosystem where mountain majesty meets high desert resilience in one of California's most geologically fascinating regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeNo specific information about campsite sizes.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy at campsites appears mixed. While some reviews highlight close site spacing ('The campsites are a little close to my liking.' - Reborn as David, 2023), others emphasize peace and quiet depending on location.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites under high-tension powerlines; site #16 is recommended for its location and quality.
Best CampsitesSite #16 is described as the best site by a user. Sites 6–11 and 17 are under high-tension powerlines, which some visitors find problematic.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Specific check-in times are not mentioned.
Check-out
Specific check-out times are not mentioned.
Stay Limit
Stay limits are not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Specific guest limits are not stated. User review mentioned a site accommodating 15 people.
Groups
No group camping options available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are creek-adjacent and flat; spacing has reportedly improved in recent years.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal opening and closing details are not provided; user reviews indicate year-round camping.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveAmerica.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are mentioned in user reviews, but no specific site count or patterns are detailed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Taboose Creek Campground can engage in various outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, rock climbing, and off-road vehicle (ATV) riding. Fishing is a highlight for many campers, with the creek regularly stocked with trout during the summer months, although some reviews report inconsistent fish availability. Hiking trails nearby provide access to the stunning Sierra High Country. ATV riding is popular due to the proximity of off-road trails, but it can lead to noise concerns.
Hiking
The campground offers access to hiking trails that lead to the Sierra High Country. Nearby trails promise diverse scenery, including tree-covered canyons and sprawling meadows. Specific trail details are not provided.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
Fishing is a key activity at Taboose Creek Campground, with the creek being regularly stocked with trout in summer. While some visitors report great fishing experiences ('Got my limit in about 3 hours.' - Reborn as David, 2023), others complain about poor fishing conditions due to a fish disease at nearby hatcheries.Biking
Bicycle riding is mentioned as an option within a mile of the campground. Specific trail details or terrain descriptions are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife frequently visits the area, and campers are advised to store food safely. Specific wildlife details are not provided.Winter Activities
No information about winter-specific activities provided.Water Sports
No information provided about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings; users are advised to keep them controlled and follow local guidelines.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal hazards include ticks, strong winds up to 70 mph, and falling tree branches. Mosquitoes are highly active after sunset during summer.
Active alertsNo potable water is available as per authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 31.7 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
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely located in Independence, approximately 14 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is available via dumpsters. Some user reviews report litter issues: 'Campground has a little too much trash floating around.' (Joey D., 2023), while others note improvements: 'Could not find a single bit of trash.' (Duane Lohr, 2018).
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along Taboose Creek, which is regularly stocked with trout during summer.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of maintenance, noisy campers, and mosquitoes. Other reviews highlight clean restrooms but issues like trash and lack of potable water.
HostNo camp host is present, which has led to noise and other issues in the campground.
Campground Map
1360 N. Main St., BISHOP, California, 93514, United States
Driving directionsVia U.S. 395, 14-miles north of Independence, turn west on Taboose Creek Road, 2- miles to campground
Road access includes 14 miles from Independence on U.S. 395, followed by a 2-mile drive west on Taboose Creek Road to the campground.Nearby places
Independence (14 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely available in Independence, approximately 14 miles away, including groceries and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Taboose Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present a mixed picture of Taboose Creek Campground. Positive aspects include beautiful scenery, proximity to the creek, and recreational activities like fishing and ATV riding. Negative feedback highlights poor maintenance, noise issues, and inconsistent amenities such as potable water.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
1. 'Great location just off the 395, approximately 10 miles north of Independence.' (Joey D., 2023) 2. 'Nice quiet campground by the creek.' (Carla Jacobson, 2022) 3. 'The fishing is great!' (Reborn...
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Common Concerns
1. 'Not maintained at all. Tree branches and stumps litter each camp space.' (Valerie Brooks, 2022) 2. 'Mosquitoes were unreal…active even after the sun went down.' (Kevin Kim, 2023) 3. 'Since there...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. 'Check yourself and your dog for ticks afterwards.' (Reborn as David, 2023) 2. 'Avoid campsites under high-tension powerlines (e.g., sites 6-11 and 17) if sensitive to electric energy.' (Carla...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is noted for being dry, hot, and dusty, with increased mosquito activity. ATV riding is more popular during this time, which can add to noise. Fishing conditions vary seasonally, with some...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Fishing is awesome!! If you don’t like Taboose Creek, you're not a camper.' (Donna Souza, 2022) 2. 'Great place been going there for over 30 years.' (Simon, 2019) 3. 'Mosquitoes were unreal.'...
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Site-Specific Reviews
1. 'Sites 6 through 11 and 17 are right under high-tension powerlines.' (Carla Jacobson, 2022) 2. 'Camp in a secure and safe spot... depending on the campsite you could fish from your tent.' (Turk...
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Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground. However, one review advises checking for ticks: 'Check yourself and your dog for ticks afterwards.' (Reborn as David, 2023)
Last updated August 10, 2025