How much does camping cost at Big Pine Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Big Pine Creek Campground range from $26/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Big Pine Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Big Pine Creek Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Big Pine Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Big Pine Creek Campground has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Big Pine Creek Campground?

Big Pine Creek Campground is open April 17 to October 23. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Big Pine Creek Campground?

Big Pine Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Big Pine Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Big Pine Creek Campground: Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Big Pine Creek Campground have?

Big Pine Creek Campground has 30 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Big Pine Creek Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Big Pine Creek Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Big Pine Creek Campground?

Big Pine Creek Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Big Pine Creek Campground

4.41

292 reviews

INYO

Top 2% in CAFall

Scenic ViewsStargazingGreat HikingSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping California Mountain Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,700 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Open May 15 through ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,700 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Open May 15 through ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

Big Pine Creek Campground

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $26.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $26.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

760-935-4339AliceA@camprrm.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

INYO

Big Pine Creek Campground

INYO

Weather at Big Pine Creek Campground

Current alerts(7)

Click here for more information about the Inyo National Forest
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
Electric hookups are not available
Please Note: One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee. Extra vehicle will be charged a per night fee and collected at the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Big Pine Creek Campground

Best season: fall. Fall delivers the clearest weather, the best light on the high peaks and dramatic aspen color, making it ideal for glacier views and photography. Daytime temperatures are typically cool and comfortable (40–65°F) with crisp nights that often drop below freezing (20–35°F), reducing bugs and afternoon thunderstorm risk common in midsummer. Trails remain accessible through early October, fishing picks up as fish concentrate in fewer open waters, and crowds thin significantly after Labor Day. Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 2% in CA

Aspen color peaks, clear weather and fewer bugs—reviews call fall the best time.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 17 to October 23. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15 through October 21. Reservations are available starting at June 23 during peak season.

About Big Pine Creek Campground

Big Pine Creek Campground sits in the high Sierra at the trailhead to Palisade Glacier, the southernmost glacier in North America. Recreation Resource Management operates this small seasonal campground in Inyo National Forest, where hikers launch multi-day trips into the John Muir Wilderness and photographers chase fall aspen color against the Palisade Crest. Sites accommodate tents and RVs along Big Pine Creek, with vault toilets, fire rings, and a 14-day stay limit.

Big Pine Creek Campground offers a mix of tent and RV camping. Some sites are adjacent to the creek, enhancing the outdoor experience.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers the clearest weather, the best light on the high peaks and dramatic aspen color, making it ideal for glacier views and photography. Daytime temperatures are typically cool and comfortable (40–65°F) with crisp nights that often drop below freezing (20–35°F), reducing bugs and afternoon thunderstorm risk common in midsummer. Trails remain accessible through early October, fishing picks up as fish concentrate in fewer open waters, and crowds thin significantly after Labor Day. Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation7700 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies high-desert-to-alpine transition zone where Jeffrey pines and sagebrush give way to aspen groves that turn gold in fall. Big Pine Creek flows through the sites, fed by snowmelt and glacial runoff from the peaks above. Higher up the drainage, the landscape shifts to granite cirques, cascading waterfalls, and turquoise glacial lakes. The Palisade Glacier, the largest in the Sierra Nevada and the southernmost in North America, is visible from upper trails. These are living glaciers still carving the rock.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available within the campground. However, nearby Glacier Lodge offers alternative accommodations such as cabins.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov via the website, app, or contact center.

AccessibilityWhile specific ADA-compliance details are not provided, the campground layout includes uneven terrain, making certain areas less accessible.

Site 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.

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 SitesFor 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 gets mentioned most for creek views. Sites 27 and 13 offer more privacy and creek proximity. Sites farther into the loops tend to be larger, flatter, and more secluded than those near the entrance.

Need help booking Big Pine Creek Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

This is a dry campground, no water. Electric hookups are not available

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

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.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are unavailable. Vault toilets are provided throughout the campground.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are available for each site to protect against bears and other wildlife.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

292 reviews

Recommended

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 292 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 292 reviews.

Site #13Loved
Site #13 is close to the restroom and river, with ample shade and a convenient layout.
Site #17Loved
Site #17 is described as secluded and scenic, with a creek side location.
Site #27Loved
Site #27 offers significant privacy and space for multiple tents.

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 292 reviews

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 292 reviews

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 292 reviews

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 292 reviews

Camper 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 292 reviews

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 292 reviews

Pet-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 292 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want high-country hiking and stargazing from a quiet creek-side base with minimal light pollution.

Skip if

You need potable water on-site or reliably maintained facilities during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

Upper Sage Flat sits at 8,500 feet in Inyo National Forest near Big Pine, offering high-elevation alpine camping along Big Pine Creek. This small campground provides tent and RV sites with flush and vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Reviewers consistently praise the exceptionally clean facilities and attentive camp hosts who maintain raked, tidy sites ideal for hiking the Big Pine Trail system, fishing alpine streams, and wildlife viewing.