Coldwater Campground - Inyo Nf (Ca)
4.57285 reviewsColdwater Campground - Inyo Nf (Ca)
$33.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$33.00
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
Standard nonelectric sites cost $33 per night during the peak season (May 23 – September 20). Rates do not include taxes, service fees, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched high in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Coldwater Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. This beloved mountain retreat spreads across two thoughtfully designed loops, where towering pines create a natural cathedral overhead. Just steps away, the crystalline waters of Lake Mary glimmer through the trees, while a network of legendary hiking trails radiates outward like spokes on a wheel, each promising its own alpine adventure. Families gather here summer after summer, drawn by the campground's welcoming atmosphere and the endless possibilities that await beyond each tent site.
Coldwater Campground offers multiple camping options, including tent and RV camping, as well as group sites. Sites vary in size and privacy, catering to different needs.
Historical SignificanceThese mountains hold stories etched in both trail dust and abandoned mine shafts. The legendary Duck Pass Trail begins nearby, serving as a gateway to the iconic John Muir Trail—a path that has carried the dreams of countless hikers across the Sierra's spine. Hidden among the peaks, the ghostly remains of the Mammoth Consolidated Mine Company whisper tales of fortune seekers who once scoured these slopes for precious metals. Today's visitors follow in the footsteps of Native Americans, prospectors, and pioneering mountaineers, adding their own chapters to this high country chronicle.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 9,000 feet, Coldwater lives up to its name with refreshingly cool summer days that offer sweet relief from valley heat. Mountain mornings arrive with a crisp bite that sends campers reaching for their fleece jackets and wrapping hands around steaming coffee mugs. As evening shadows lengthen across the forest floor, temperatures drop quickly, making campfires not just romantic but genuinely warming. Winter's grip lingers long here—patches of snow often hide in shaded hollows until late May or early June, creating a compressed but glorious camping season that makes each summer day feel precious.
ElevationLife at 8,900 feet moves to a different rhythm. The thin mountain air reminds lowlanders to pace themselves, turning simple tasks into mindful moments. Water boils reluctantly at this altitude, sunlight feels more intense, and that first night's sleep might be restless as bodies adjust to the elevation. Yet this lofty perch rewards adaptation with crisp, pure air that seems to wash away the concerns of the world below, and star-filled nights so clear you can almost touch the Milky Way.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at 8,900 feet, where ancient pines stretch skyward from a landscape sculpted by ice and time. Massive granite boulders, deposited by long-vanished glaciers, create natural playgrounds for children and contemplative perches for adults. The melodic rush of Coldwater and Mammoth Creeks provides a constant soundtrack, their crystal-clear waters tumbling over smooth stones worn round by centuries of flow. Through breaks in the forest canopy, Lake Mary reveals itself like a sapphire set in granite, its mirror surface reflecting peaks that pierce the sky. This is a place where every sunrise paints the mountains in alpenglow and every sunset transforms the forest into a golden sanctuary.
Geological RegionThe Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains showcase nature's most dramatic architecture, where massive tectonic forces have thrust granite peaks skyward while ancient glaciers carved deep valleys and polished stone faces to a mirror shine. Pine forests cling to slopes littered with glacial erratics—boulders carried miles from their origins and dropped like scattered toys across the landscape. This is young geology in mountain terms, where the earth's raw power remains visible in every fractured cliff face and U-shaped valley, creating a terrain that challenges hikers and humbles geologists alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is moderately accessible. While some sites are level, others are sloped, which may pose challenges for campers with mobility issues. The long grade leading to the back of the campground could also be difficult for those with accessibility needs.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating tents, RVs, and trailers. Larger sites like #17 and #75 have been noted for their spaciousness.
Sites PrivacySites along creeks are described as more private, while others are closer together. Reviewer comments suggest varying levels of privacy depending on site location.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creek-side sites for privacy and scenic beauty. Higher elevation sites in the second loop offer better shade and larger spaces.
Best CampsitesHighly recommended campsites include #16, #18, #30, and #43 for privacy, proximity to streams, and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by noon the day following your arrival date to hold the reservation.
Check-out
Noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during a visit and 14 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most campsites accommodate one RV with tow or one vehicle per tent site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into two loops, forming a figure-eight layout. Sites are generally spaced out, but some are close together.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 20 during peak season. Closed during the out-of-season period from September 20 to May 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a reservation-only basis. Walk-up sites are not explicitly mentioned as available.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations are subject to forfeiting the first night’s recreation use fee. Late cancellations are defined as cancellations made after midnight one day prior to check-in.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Coldwater Campground offers diverse activities catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking opportunities are abundant, with trails leading to destinations like Duck Pass and Emerald Lake. Anglers can fish for rainbow, brook, and brown trout in nearby Lake Mary. Wildlife viewing is common, and boating is accessible in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.
Hiking
Highlighted trails include the 5-mile Duck Pass Trail, which leads through forested hillsides and past several lakes to connect with the John Muir Trail. Emerald Lake Trail is another popular option located at the campground's rear.Fishing
Fishing in Lake Mary offers opportunities for catching rainbow, brook, and brown trout. Barney Lake, accessible via a 2.7-mile hike from the campground, provides additional fishing opportunities.Biking
The Mammoth Lakes Basin has dedicated bike paths, including trails leading downhill to Mammoth Village. Some reviewers noted that uphill climbs could be challenging.Boating
Boating is available in nearby Lake Mary, which has marina facilities offering rentals, such as kayaks and motorboats.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe wildlife such as black bears, mule deer, and birds. Wildlife encounters, including with the local bear nicknamed 'Victor,' are common.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not highlighted in the authoritative sources or reviews.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are accessible via the marina at Lake Mary.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during dry conditions. Fires must be confined to designated rings.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife, including black bears, are a concern, especially for food storage. Sloped and rocky campsites may pose challenges for pitching tents or parking RVs.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed due to weather conditions. Contact local visitor centers for updates.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are located in Mammoth Lakes, approximately 7 miles away, including police, medical facilities, and fire department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 – September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, with locking trash cans and recycle bins provided to prevent wildlife access.
Proximity to water featuresColdwater and Mammoth Creeks run alongside the campground. Lake Mary is within walking distance.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention sloped and rocky campsites that make tent setup challenging. Mosquito prevalence during summer is noted, and bears sometimes wander through the campground.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful. Eric and Tina are frequently mentioned for their dedication and cleanliness of facilities.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFollow U.S. Highway 395 to the junction of State Highway 203. Turn west on 203 and drive 7 miles through the town of Mammoth Lakes. Highway 203 becomes Main Street, then Lake Mary Road, which will lead to the Lakes Basin. Continue on Lake Mary Road to the Coldwater Campground cutoff on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Highway 395 and Lake Mary Road. Seasonal snow may limit access until late May or early June.Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes – approximately 7 miles, Reno – approximately 180 miles, Los Angeles – approximately 320 miles.
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Mammoth Lakes, approximately 7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
285 reviews
Coldwater Campground - Inyo Nf (Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users frequently praise Coldwater Campground for its cleanliness, proximity to trails and lakes, and helpful camp hosts. Criticisms include uneven sites, bear activity, and narrow roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 285 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, helpful hosts, proximity to hiking trails and lakes, spacious sites, and quiet surroundings were commonly praised.
Based on 285 reviewsCommon Concerns
Uneven and rocky sites, bear activity concerns, overcrowding, mosquitoes, and narrow, poorly maintained roads are among the most cited complaints.
Based on 285 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend choosing creekside sites for privacy, using bear boxes diligently, bringing mosquito repellent, and considering sites higher up for more space and shade.
Based on 285 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are noted for heavy mosquito activity and bear sightings. Fall offers crisp air and less crowding, while spring may feature snow, requiring preparation for cold conditions.
Based on 285 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Spotless facilities. And the host (Eric and Tina) were the greatest!" "The bathrooms were well kept and cleaned each day. They didn’t even smell." "Flushable toilets are available and potable water...
Based on 285 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #16 was between two creeks but challenging for tents due to the rocky ground. Site #17 was spacious but close to the road. Site #75 was large and well-shaded, accommodating multiple tents.
Based on 285 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground has uneven and sloped sites, which could pose challenges for accessibility. Long uphill grades may make navigation difficult for individuals with mobility concerns.
Based on 285 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users mentioned the need to manage them carefully due to wildlife, including bears.
Based on 285 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025