Bishop Park Campground (Ca)
3 South Lake Road, Bishop, CA, 93514
Bishop Park Campground (Ca)
$34.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season fees for both standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites are $34 per night. These rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$34.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider760-872-4552null
About this campground
Nestled alongside the rushing waters of Middle Fork Bishop Creek, Bishop Park Campground beckons adventurers with its tranquil grassy meadows and towering Sierra pines. This beloved mountain retreat serves as your gateway to world-class fishing, breathtaking wilderness trails, and some of California's most spectacular high-country scenery. Wake to the sound of cascading water and spend your days exploring pristine alpine landscapes that have captivated outdoor enthusiasts for generations.
Bishop Park Campground supports multiple camping styles, including tent camping and small RVs. The presence of walk-in tent sites emphasizes its suitability for traditional camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceBishop Park stands as a cherished gateway to two of America's most revered wilderness areas—the Inyo and John Muir Wilderness. For decades, this campground has served as basecamp for countless adventures into these protected lands, where hikers follow in the footsteps of the legendary naturalist John Muir himself. The surrounding peaks and valleys have inspired generations of mountaineers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking communion with the wild Sierra Nevada.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings crystal-clear Sierra days perfect for exploration, though mountain weather keeps you on your toes with afternoon thunderstorms that roll through like clockwork. Evening temperatures often plunge into the 40s, creating crisp nights ideal for stargazing around the campfire. Tent campers should come prepared for the notorious Bishop Creek winds that sweep through camp, carrying the fresh scent of pine and reminding everyone they're truly in the high country.
ElevationPerched at 8,200 feet where the air is crisp and pure, Bishop Park Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer heat. This elevation creates the perfect climate for both relaxation and adventure—cool enough for comfortable hiking yet accessible enough for family camping. The thin mountain air enhances every sunset, turning the surrounding peaks into a canvas of alpenglow while providing some of the finest trout fishing waters in the Eastern Sierra.
Natural Features and SceneryBishop Creek's melodic waters wind through the heart of camp, creating a natural soundtrack for your Sierra adventure. Majestic conifers provide dappled shade across emerald meadows, while granite peaks pierce the sky in every direction. Just beyond camp, trails beckon toward hidden alpine lakes, ancient glaciers, and the pristine wilderness areas that define this spectacular region. Each dawn brings new light to the dramatic landscape, painting the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold.
Geological RegionThe Bishop Creek drainage showcases the raw power of Sierra Nevada geology, where ancient glaciers carved deep valleys and polished granite walls that gleam in the mountain sun. This spectacular canyon serves as your portal to the Inyo and John Muir Wilderness areas, where pristine lakes nestle in glacier-carved basins and jagged peaks tell the story of millions of years of geological drama. The Middle Fork of Bishop Creek continues this ancient work, tumbling through camp with waters born from snowmelt and high mountain springs.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground accommodates smaller RVs and includes walk-in tent sites. However, specific details on ADA-compliant features are not provided.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary but are generally described as small to medium, with some exceptions offering larger spaces. One review mentions, "The campsite was much smaller than we had anticipated. It did not fit 6 people/2 cars very comfortably."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels differ by site, with some offering more seclusion. "Bishop Park #4 is one of my favorite campsites - partial shade, large lawn & private," a reviewer notes.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and partial shade, Site 4 is recommended. Sites 11-15 are ideal for creekside access and fishing.
Best CampsitesSites 11-15 are noted as excellent for creekside views and fishing. Site 4 is described as spacious, with partial shade and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 11:00 AM on the reservation start date.
Check-out
NOON on the day following arrival date for reservations to be held.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests allowed per site.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available at this location.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 21 single campsites, including walk-in tent sites near the creek and limited spaces for smaller RVs or trailers.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open seasonally from May 15 to October 21, with reservations starting June 23 and ending October 21 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are reservable, and walk-ups are not mentioned as an option.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. Fees include a $10 change or cancellation fee, and late cancellations may incur additional penalties, such as forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bishop Park Campground offers a range of outdoor activities suitable for families, friends, and special interest groups. Highlights include fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding. "The sky is so amazing. I just sat there in my chair for quite a while staring at all the stars," a camper shares.
Hiking
The campground provides access to several trailheads leading into the Inyo and John Muir Wilderness areas, offering opportunities for exploration of glaciers and lakes. Specific trail details are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw. The Middle Fork of Bishop Creek is stocked with rainbow, brown, brook, and Alpers trout, allowing anglers to fish directly from creekside tent sites. "We caught trout every day," a user shared.Wildlife viewing
Bishop Park Campground is frequently noted for wildlife viewing opportunities. "Waking up to deers in the morning" and the serene natural setting enhance the experience.Winter Activities
No information specific to winter activities is provided, though the area is likely inaccessible during the off-season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as available activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires and charcoal BBQs may be prohibited during fire restrictions due to hot and dry weather.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include strong winds, sudden weather changes, and active bear area requiring caution with food storage.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions. Campers should confirm current fire policies.
Weather forecast
44
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 42%
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 are likely in Bishop, including hospitals, police, and other facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 21, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but details about pickup schedules or specific locations are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe Middle Fork of Bishop Creek runs through the campground, with tent sites backing onto the creek. Fishing opportunities are abundant.
Common complaintsComplaints include limited space for larger groups and vehicles, as mentioned in user reviews. One user noted, 'The campsite was much smaller than anticipated.'
HostCampground hosts, including Jerry, are highly praised in user reviews for being friendly, helpful, and maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
3 South Lake Road, Bishop, CA, 93514
Driving directionsFrom Highway 395 in the center of Bishop, turn west on Line Street (Highway 168), and drive 15 miles to the campground on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads but is not recommended for large RVs due to limited space. Most sites cater to tent camping or smaller rigs.Nearby places
Bishop: 15 miles (~25-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be purchased at a market approximately 12 miles away, or at a cafe/general store about 1 mile from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.8
42 reviews
Bishop Park Campground (Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment for Bishop Park Campground is overwhelmingly positive, with campers praising the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and accommodating hosts. "Bishop Park campground is one of the prettiest I've stayed at," one user notes. Complaints are minimal, mostly related to site size and occasional fire restrictions.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive highlights include the campground's proximity to the creek, excellent fishing opportunities, clean restrooms, and friendly campground hosts. The stargazing opportunities and serene...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Notable complaints include the smaller size of some campsites and occasional issues with weak toilet flushes. Some users were disappointed by fire restrictions during their stay.
Based on 42 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking early and being prepared for cold nights with extra layers or blankets. Offline maps are suggested due to lack of cell service. Firewood is available for purchase on-site,...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally from mid-May to October. Peak fishing opportunities and pleasant weather occur during this period. Cold nights and potential fire restrictions have been noted by...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cleanest bathrooms and facility, the nicest campground employees." "The sky is so amazing. I just sat there in my chair for quite a while staring at all the stars." "Waking up to deers in the...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Highly-rated campsites include Sites 4, 11, 12, 13, and 14, which are noted for their creekside locations, shade, and size. Site 19 is described as smaller and less accommodating for larger groups.
Based on 42 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities are available.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is explicitly pet-friendly. "Perfect place if you want to bring your four-legged friends," one user notes. Rules require pets to be restrained or on a leash at all times.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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