Aspen Campground
4.5234 reviewsnull
Aspen Campground
$10.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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
Single site costs $28 per night, and additional vehicles are charged $10 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single sites occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Tucked away in a pristine grove where aspens whisper secrets to towering pines, Aspen Campground beckons with 45 thoughtfully spaced campsites that promise both solitude and connection with nature. Here, where Lee Vining Creek sings its ancient song nearby, campers discover what one visitor perfectly captured: a 'magnificent serene and peaceful' escape from the everyday world. Each site offers generous shade and natural privacy, creating intimate outdoor sanctuaries beneath the forest canopy.
Aspen Campground provides spaces for tent and RV camping. It does not feature cabins or group sites, and no glamping options like yurts are available.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Aspen Campground, where crisp, star-filled nights give way to sun-drenched days. As one seasoned camper noted, 'Weather does fluctuate' – a gentle reminder to pack layers for this high-country adventure. While summer brings warmth and wildflowers, winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, transforming the campground into a wonderland for those brave enough to embrace the chill.
ElevationPerched at 7,490 feet where the air grows thin and pure, Aspen Campground offers a true high-altitude escape. This elevated sanctuary brings refreshingly cool temperatures that provide relief from summer heat, though wise campers come prepared for the occasional surprise snowfall that reminds everyone of nature's unpredictable mountain moods.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where golden aspens dance with evergreen pines, creating a natural cathedral of shade and light. The campground's trails wind through this enchanted forest, leading adventurers to hidden waterfalls and creek-side meditation spots. As one enchanted visitor shared, you'll find 'Beautiful Aspens all around and places to walk or take a hike if you like,' making every day an invitation to explore this slice of wilderness paradise.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast embrace of Inyo National Forest, Aspen Campground sits at the perfect intersection of diverse ecosystems. Here, distinctive aspen groves mingle with stately pine forests, while Lee Vining Creek carves its timeless path through the landscape, creating a rich tapestry of habitats that showcase the Eastern Sierra's natural splendor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes spaces for tents and small RVs (up to 40 feet), but detailed accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyThe campsite offers good privacy with tree cover and a quiet setting. "Sites are surrounded by trees and give privacy," said one reviewer.
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the creek or waterfall for scenic views and tranquility, but avoid overcrowded weekends.
Best CampsitesCampsite 19 is cited as a favorite due to its proximity to waterfalls. "Campsite 19 next to the falls is great."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged with ample shade provided by aspen and pine trees, and some offer creekside views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round but certain facilities may close during winter.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served sites observed. "You can walk up to this campground and get a site."
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Aspen Campground offers a mix of activities, including hiking, fishing, and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. "The river is never far by," noted one reviewer, and the area is described as "great for fishing and hiking by the river." There are no structured programs or swimming facilities.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by opportunities for hiking. Trails and areas for walking are available nearby. One reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful Aspen's all around and places to walk or take a hike if you like."Fishing
Fishing is available in the stream nearby. "A stream for fishing, which the kids loved," said one user.Winter Activities
The campground is not explicitly described as being open for winter recreation. One user noted taking a day trip to enjoy the scenic winter scenes along the river.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits provided at each campsite. Firewood is sold by camp hosts.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are a frequent concern, with some reviews citing close encounters. "There was a bear that kept showing up in the campground... having a bear creep up on you 3-times within 5-feet was quite an ordeal."
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center (1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA 93541, Phone: (760) 647-3044)
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day Weekend marks the opening of Tioga Pass for access to Yosemite National Park.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed in the provided information.
Proximity to water featuresLee Vining Creek runs through the campground, and waterfalls are accessible nearby. "Beautiful river flows through the campground."
Common complaintsNo potable water and pit toilets are common complaints. "No running water or flush toilets." Barking dogs interfere with serenity.
HostCamp host available during peak season. Reviews mention hosts being polite and helpful. "Camp hosts were extremely polite and helpful."
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Hwy 395 go west on Hwy 120 to Poole Power Plant Road.
The road is accessible but includes dirt and unpaved sections, which can be rough in some areas. "Dirt road is rough getting in" noted by one reviewer.Nearby places
Lee Vining (approx. 4 miles, 10 min drive), Yosemite National Park entrance (approx. 20 miles, 20 min drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Lee Vining, including restaurants and grocery stores. "The town of Lee Vining has some restaurants and a grocery with supply of almost everything."
Camper Reviews
4.5
34 reviews
Aspen Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Aspen Campground are generally positive, highlighting its serene environment, beautiful natural setting, and proximity to hiking and fishing opportunities. However, some campers have noted the challenges posed by the active bear presence and lack of facilities like potable water and showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
"Surrounded by mountains" and "good privacy" were commonly noted. Many appreciate the beautiful river running through the campground and its quiet, off-the-grid experience.
Based on 34 reviewsCommon Concerns
Key complaints include the lack of potable water, no cell service, and the presence of bears. One user reported a bear damaging an unoccupied tent.
Based on 34 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water, be vigilant about bears, and consider visiting when it’s not peak season for tranquility.
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer weekends tend to be busy, but off-season visits (e.g., early October) are quieter. Seasonal weather variation includes cold nights and warmer days.
Based on 34 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Aspen Campground sits in a grove of aspen trees, with other pine trees giving shade to every spot." "We chose a nice site with a lot of shade and right up next to the rushing stream." "No service...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 19 next to the falls is highly recommended by a user.
Based on 34 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility, but the campground may pose challenges due to its rustic facilities.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are permitted but must be leashed. However, one user was disturbed by a noisy dog brought by another camper.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025