Big Pine Creek Campground
4.45129 reviewsINYO
Big Pine Creek Campground
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
Fees for standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites are $26 per night during peak season. Out-of-season reservations are not available.
About this campground
Discover your mountain sanctuary at Big Pine Creek Campground, where crystal-clear waters dance alongside your tent and ancient pines whisper stories of the wilderness. Perched at 7,700 feet in the dramatic Big Pine Canyon, this alpine retreat offers the perfect basecamp for glacier seekers and mountain dreamers. Wake to the sound of rushing creek water and fall asleep under a canopy of stars, with trails to pristine glacial lakes and the magnificent Palisade Glacier beginning right at your doorstep.
Big Pine Creek Campground offers a mix of tent and RV camping. Some sites are adjacent to the creek, enhancing the outdoor experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into the footsteps of conservation pioneer John Muir as you explore this gateway to the legendary John Muir Wilderness. This sacred landscape has inspired generations of naturalists, mountaineers, and wilderness advocates who recognized these mountains as treasures worth protecting. Your campsite connects you to a rich legacy of environmental stewardship and the ongoing story of America's wilderness preservation movement.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of high-altitude seasons at Big Pine Creek, where summer days warm your adventures while crisp mountain nights remind you of the wilderness embrace. Early spring and late fall transform the campground into a winter wonderland, demanding proper cold-weather gear and rewarding the prepared with solitude and stark beauty. Summer visitors enjoy nature's perfect balance—brilliant blue skies, gentle afternoon breezes, and refreshingly cool evenings that make campfire gatherings unforgettable.
ElevationAt 7,700 feet, Big Pine Creek Campground offers that sweet spot where accessible meets adventurous. The elevation gifts visitors with naturally air-conditioned summer days and access to spectacular high-altitude hiking without the extreme challenges of higher camps. This mountain perch provides the perfect acclimatization point for ambitious peak baggers while offering comfortable conditions for families seeking their first taste of alpine camping.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living gallery where desert meets alpine in spectacular fashion. Majestic Jeffrey pines provide shade while silvery sagebrush perfumes the air, and groves of quaking aspen paint the canyon gold each fall. As you explore higher, watch the landscape transform from high desert to alpine wonderland, with cascading waterfalls feeding turquoise glacial lakes. The star attraction remains the gleaming glaciers themselves—ancient rivers of ice carved into the granite peaks, visible reminders of nature's raw power.
Geological RegionWelcome to glacier country in the mighty Sierra Nevada, where Big Pine Creek Campground serves as your front-row seat to California's most impressive ice sculptures. Home to the largest glaciers in the Sierra Nevada and the southernmost glaciers in North America, including the renowned Palisade Glacier, this geological wonderland tells a story millions of years in the making. These living glaciers continue to shape the dramatic peaks and valleys that make this corner of the Eastern Sierra an irresistible destination for geology enthusiasts and casual nature lovers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWhile specific ADA-compliance details are not provided, the campground layout includes uneven terrain, making certain areas less accessible.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some being suitable for large tents or smaller RVs. For example, one camper noted setting up a 12x15' tent in a site.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site, with some offering secluded settings by the creek and others being less private near the entrance. Sites farther into the campground tend to be larger, flatter, and more private.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor creekside views, reserve site #22 or similar. Sites in the back of the campground, such as #27, offer more privacy. Avoid site #28 due to proximity to the main road and small size.
Best CampsitesSite #22 is highly praised for creek views. Sites #27 and #13 are noted for privacy and proximity to the creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is noon.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates a maximum of six campers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out in loops with spaced sites. Creekside sites are more desirable and offer natural privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 through October 21. Reservations are available starting at June 23 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov via the website, app, or contact center.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night’s fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Pine Creek Campground is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, alongside opportunities for stargazing given the lack of light pollution.
Hiking
The North Fork Trail offers access to Big Pine Lakes and Palisade Glacier, featuring waterfalls and diverse vegetation. Hikes are described as challenging but rewarding, with round-trip times ranging from 5-8 hours for popular routes to the lakes.Fishing
Fishing is available in Big Pine Creek and Big Pine Lakes. Anglers can catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout. However, some seasons may see reduced fish stock due to state-level issues.Wildlife viewing
Deer and other mountain wildlife are frequently observed. Campers have also mentioned the presence of bears, emphasizing the importance of using bear lockers.Winter Activities
Winter camping is not explicitly mentioned, but the area's altitude and weather might provide opportunities for snowshoeing or winter hiking.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not highlighted, though the creek could allow light activities like wading with appropriate gear.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless restrictions are imposed due to dry weather conditions. Firewood is available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are enforced at night, although some user reviews mention occasional noise disturbances from neighboring campers.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are active in the area, making food storage lockers essential. Roads feature potholes and lifted asphalt, challenging for low-clearance vehicles.
Active alertsThere are no active alerts reported, although consistent issues with water availability and road condition are noted.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 21.3 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
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 21
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available, although some reviews have noted overflowing bins during peak periods. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Big Pine Creek, which provides filtered water for campers. Proximity to Big Pine Lakes and Palisade Glacier.
Common complaintsVisitors commonly complain about the lack of potable water, poor road conditions, and inconsistent maintenance of vault toilets and trash bins.
HostCampground host availability varies. Some reviews mention helpful hosts like 'Chris,' while others indicate periods without any host presence.
Campground Map
INYO
Driving directionsFrom Highway 395, turn west on Crocker Street in Big Pine, the continue west up Big Pine Canyon Road for 10 miles to end of road. Turn left crossing Big Pine Creek and left again past Glacier Lodge for 100 yards.
Located 10 miles from Highway 395, Big Pine Creek Campground is accessible via paved roads, although they are reportedly in poor condition with significant potholes and lifted asphalt caused by tree roots.Camper Reviews
4.5
129 reviews
Big Pine Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, proximity to hiking trails, and peaceful atmosphere. However, common concerns include the lack of potable water, road conditions, and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 129 reviews
What Campers Love
Excellent hiking opportunities, serene environment with creek access, clean vault toilets, and accommodating camp hosts. Campers also appreciate the absence of light and noise pollution, making it...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Lack of potable water, unmaintained roads with potholes, occasional site level issues, and limited cell service. Some reviews also mention that the campground could benefit from better signage and...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water or a filtration system as there is no potable water on-site. Reserve creekside sites for the best experience. Prepare for cold nights and pack appropriately. Stake tents and...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall and early summer are noted as quieter, with fewer bugs and cooler weather. Late spring and summer attract more visitors and mosquitoes but offer the best hiking conditions.
Based on 129 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The view is speechless. It’s easy to finish the hike in 5-6 hours out and back." - Hiro SoCal. "Might be one of my favorite campgrounds now. An 'Off the Grid' campground." - Michelle Calkins. "Hosts...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #13 is close to the restroom and river, with ample shade and a convenient layout. Site #17 is described as secluded and scenic, with a creek side location. Site #27 offers significant privacy...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews explicitly addressing accessibility for campers with disabilities; however, uneven terrain and the lack of paved paths may challenge some visitors.
Based on 129 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, and visitors must keep pets leashed. Many campers bring their dogs and appreciate the pet-accommodating environment.
Based on 129 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025