Trumbull Lake

Star4.60
86 reviews
P.O. Box 472, Bridgeport, CA, 93517, USA
Trumbull Lake
$34.00 - $65.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary based on site type and season. Peak season rates range from $34 to $65 depending on whether the site is standard non-electric or RV...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$65.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$99.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
760-932-7092online@westrekservices.com

About this campground

Nestled in the heart of California's high country, Trumbull Lake Campground invites adventurers to experience alpine camping at its finest. Wake up to mirror-like reflections of towering peaks on the lake's surface, cast a line into crystal-clear waters, or set off on trails that lead deep into the wilderness. Whether you're settling into a cozy single site or gathering the extended family at one of the spacious triple sites, you'll find everything needed for a memorable mountain escape—sturdy picnic tables for evening meals, secure food lockers to keep wildlife at bay, and fire rings perfect for sharing stories under a canopy of stars.
Trumbull Lake Campground accommodates multiple camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites, and group sites. It provides a rustic experience with no electricity or water hookups.
Historical SignificanceTrumbull Lake sits at the crossroads of wilderness heritage, bordered by the legendary Hoover Wilderness and within striking distance of Yosemite National Park's eastern entrance. History buffs will discover the perfectly preserved ghost town of Bodie State Park just a scenic drive away—a haunting reminder of California's gold rush era where time stands still among weathered wooden buildings and abandoned mine shafts. This region has long served as a gateway between civilization and the wild, drawing everyone from Native American tribes to pioneering prospectors.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 10,000 feet, Trumbull Lake promises crisp mountain air and refreshingly cool nights that call for warm sleeping bags and hot cocoa. Even in the height of summer, you'll find relief from valley heat as gentle breezes sweep across the lake. The camping season runs from June through September, when wildflowers paint the meadows and afternoon temperatures hover in the comfortable 70s—though you'll want to pack layers for those chilly alpine evenings when the temperature can dip near freezing.
ElevationPerched at an breathtaking 9,980 feet above sea level, Trumbull Lake Campground offers a true high-altitude adventure where the air is thin and the views are endless. Here, you'll discover a remarkable ecosystem where hardy wildflowers burst through rocky soil, ancient lodgepole pines stand sentinel against the wind, and wildlife adapted to the extreme conditions thrives. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, keeping summer days pleasantly cool while painting spectacular sunrises and sunsets across the alpine canvas.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sight of jagged peaks perfectly mirrored in the glassy surface of a pristine 100-acre alpine lake. Trumbull Lake Campground delivers this postcard-perfect scene daily, surrounded by a amphitheater of glacier-carved mountains that seem to touch the sky. Dense forests of lodgepole pines provide natural shelter, while groves of quaking aspens shimmer gold in autumn's light. Come summer, the landscape transforms into a botanical wonderland as lupines, paintbrush, and countless other wildflowers carpet the meadows in brilliant purples, reds, and yellows.
Geological RegionThis spectacular campground occupies a dramatic alpine basin carved by ancient glaciers at 9,980 feet elevation, where the raw power of ice-age forces is written across every cliff face and cirque. Massive granite peaks thrust skyward, their surfaces polished smooth by millennia of glacial movement, creating a geological wonderland that tells the story of the Sierra Nevada's violent birth. The surrounding landscape showcases nature's artistry—from U-shaped valleys lined with lodgepole pine forests to meadows dotted with glacier-deposited boulders, all crowned by peaks that glow pink and orange in the alpenglow of dawn and dusk.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and drinking water are available. Some sites are difficult to maneuver for larger RVs due to narrow roads.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, with some accommodating larger groups or families, including one triple site. Site 30 was noted as perfect for tent camping.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites providing seclusion while others are closer to neighboring campsites. Site #5 was described as private and located at the end.
Total Campsites64 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers with large RVs should review site maps to ensure maneuverability. Sites near water are ideal for fishing enthusiasts.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include #041 and #039 for their spaciousness and quiet nature.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest count not specified.
Groups
One triple site is available for larger groups. Exact vehicle and guest limits are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutIncludes loops like TRUM and BDBL. Site arrangements vary from single-family to group sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 20 to September 1 for reservations. First-come, first-served availability from June 21 to June 26 and September 2 to October 5. Closed outside these periods due to seasonal conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov. Walk-ups available during specified periods.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served is available during specific windows such as June 20-26 and September 2-October 05.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies to changes made before the arrival date. Late cancellations result in additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Trumbull Lake Campground offers abundant recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Virginia Lakes Trail and Hoover Wilderness expands the options for outdoor activities. "Fishing is always good," noted one reviewer, with catches of rainbow, brown, and brook trout being common. Hiking trails lead to stunning alpine lakes and glacier-carved cirques.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are plentiful, with trails leading to nearby alpine lakes and wilderness areas. Virginia Lakes Trail offers scenic views and access to Yosemite National Park.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Trumbull Lake, with catches of rainbow, brown, and brook trout reported. Some users noted challenges due to crowded conditions and other lake activities.
Boating
Boating options include canoeing on Trumbull Lake. Nearby Virginia Lakes Resort offers boat rentals for other lakes in the area.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer and bears are commonly sighted. "Plenty of deer and occasional bear," commented one user.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned; the campground is primarily seasonal, opening in June and closing in September.
Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are popular water sports at Trumbull Lake. Nearby Virginia Lakes Resort offers additional opportunities for boating and fishing.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires may be restricted during wildfire season. Fire rings are provided.
  • Quiet hours are Not consistently enforced based on reviews.

Hazards

General hazardsBlack bears are commonly sighted, and weather conditions can change quickly at high altitudes.
Active alertsSeasonal closures and wildfire alerts may affect availability.

Weather forecast

38
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 33%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 3 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services would likely be in Bridgeport, approximately 13.5 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesJune 27 to September 01 during reservable periods.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided. Recycling facilities are not mentioned in the authoritative text or reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Trumbull Lake with additional access to nearby Virginia Lakes.
Common complaintsComplaints include dusty roads, lack of quiet hour enforcement, and overcrowding during peak season.
HostThe host, Kimo, is frequently praised in reviews for maintaining clean facilities and providing excellent service.

Campground Map

P.O. Box 472, Bridgeport, CA, 93517, USA
Driving directionsTravel 13.5 miles south of Bridgeport on Highway 395. Turn right at Conway Summit. Travel 5.9 miles on Forest Road 21 to where the asphalt turns to gravel. Turn right at campground entrance.
Roads and parking spurs are dirt. Travel involves a mix of paved and gravel roads. The last segment is on gravel, and the entry road conditions vary seasonally.
Nearby places
Bridgeport (~13.5 miles) and Lee Vining (~30 miles).
Nearby supplies
Virginia Lakes General Store located nearby offers basic supplies and services like boat rentals.

Camper Reviews

4.6
86 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Trumbull Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Trumbull Lake Campground are generally positive, highlighting its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and helpful camp host. Common complaints focus on dust, noise, and enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 86 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and efficient camp host, and beautiful surroundings with plenty of recreational opportunities.
Based on 86 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include dust from dirt roads, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, and crowded conditions during peak season. Cannabis smell and noise were concerns in select reviews.
Based on 86 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include using the bear-proof food storage lockers, booking early to secure more private sites, and being prepared for cold nights at high altitude. Campers advised checking campsite maps for...
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Based on 86 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Seasonal trends show cooler temperatures and quiet nights at high altitude. Summer months are popular but crowded, with some restrictions due to fire hazards.
Based on 86 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bathrooms were kept up and clean," "Fishing is always good," "Camp host Kimo was amazing!" "Campsites are spacious and plenty of parking space as well."
Based on 86 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #5 is described as private and secluded. Site #30 is perfect for tent camping. Sites near the lake offer partial lake views.
Based on 86 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews mention challenges for larger RVs navigating narrow roads. Vault toilets and potable water are accessible.
Based on 86 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, with ample space for dogs at individual campsites. "Good for dogs," commented one reviewer.
Based on 86 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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