East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)
4.60208 reviewsINYO
East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
Peak season rates for both standard non-electric and tent-only sites is $35 per night.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the breathtaking Rock Creek Canyon, East Fork Campground offers an authentic high-Sierra escape where towering pines and firs create a natural cathedral above your tent. Four distinct camping loops wind through this mountain sanctuary, each offering its own character—from sun-dappled clearings perfect for morning coffee to shaded groves where the sound of Rock Creek provides nature's soundtrack. Here in the eastern Sierra Nevada, you'll find the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness, where modern campers can still experience the raw beauty that has drawn adventurers to these mountains for generations.
East Fork Campground caters to tent and RV campers, as well as those seeking group camping options. The campground's diverse site sizes and features aim to accommodate a variety of camping styles.
Historical SignificanceThe eastern Sierra has long been a crossroads of adventure and tradition. Time your visit right, and you can experience the region's vibrant cultural tapestry—from the legendary Mule Days celebration in nearby Bishop during Memorial Day weekend, where the Old West comes alive with pack animal competitions and cowboy poetry, to the soulful sounds of the Mammoth Jazz Jubilee echoing through the mountains each July. These events connect modern visitors to the area's rich heritage of mountain culture, where miners, packers, and musicians have all found inspiration in these peaks.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 9,000 feet, East Fork transforms with the seasons in dramatic fashion. Summer days bring crisp mountain air and brilliant sunshine, but don't let the warmth fool you—once the sun dips behind the peaks, temperatures can plunge into the 40s, reminding you that you're camping in true alpine territory. Pack that extra fleece and sleeping bag liner, especially for shoulder-season adventures when frost might kiss your tent by morning. The high elevation creates a microclimate where afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with little warning, adding excitement to your mountain experience.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,900 feet above sea level, East Fork Campground places you firmly in the alpine zone where the air is thin, the views are endless, and every breath reminds you that you've truly escaped the lowlands. This elevation gifts campers with naturally air-conditioned summers, spectacular star-gazing through crystal-clear mountain air, and front-row seats to weather patterns rolling across the Sierra crest. It's high enough to leave the heat behind but still accessible to those seeking their first taste of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of Rock Creek as it tumbles fresh from the John Muir Wilderness, carrying snowmelt and stories from the high country. The campground sits embraced by a living tapestry of Jeffrey pines, white firs, and mountain hemlocks that provide both shelter and spectacle. Come autumn, scattered aspen groves burst into flames of gold, creating a photographer's paradise against the granite peaks. This is where the transition zone meets the true alpine, where every trail promises cascading streams, wildflower meadows, and those jaw-dropping Sierra vistas that make your heart skip a beat.
Geological RegionRock Creek Canyon stands as a testament to the raw power that shaped the eastern Sierra Nevada. Carved by ancient glaciers and polished by millennia of flowing water, this dramatic canyon cradles East Fork Campground at 8,900 feet, where granite walls soar skyward and the landscape tells a story written in stone. Dense forests of pine and fir have colonized the canyon floor, while aspens claim the avalanche chutes and stream banks. Above it all, jagged peaks pierce the sky, their faces still bearing the scars of the ice ages. This is geology you can touch, climb, and camp within—a living classroom where every boulder has traveled from the heights above.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not extensively documented, but several sites are described as narrow or uneven, which may challenge individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary significantly. Some are spacious enough for large tents and RVs, while others are described as narrow and only suitable for small tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Sites near the creek are less private but shaded, while others are more secluded due to natural barriers like trees and bushes.
Total Campsites130 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and shade, sites along Rock Creek are recommended. Avoid sites with steep slopes or narrow parking spaces. Bring leveling blocks for RVs.
Best CampsitesCampsites near the creek are highly rated for their views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites are held until NOON the day following arrival date.
Check-out
Check-out time is NOON.
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes four loops. Sites vary in size and privacy, with some located near Rock Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 16 to October 4 (reservable period). Out-of-season period: October 4 to May 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground has 11 First Come, First Serve sites. User reviews indicate discrepancies between official FIFS counts and actual availability, with more than 65 sites in total.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities including trout fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Rock Creek is a prime spot for fishing, and trails in the area lead to stunning alpine lakes, making it a popular choice for hikers and photographers.
Hiking
Rock Creek Canyon features several trails, including paths leading to high-elevation alpine lakes like Little Lakes Valley and Mono Pass. Trails vary in difficulty, accommodating both families and experienced hikers.Fishing
Fishing in Rock Creek is excellent, with opportunities to catch brook, brown, rainbow, and golden trout. Reports mention that the creek is occasionally stocked with Alpers trout, enhancing the fishing experience.Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity in Rock Creek Canyon, with challenging trails available for experienced riders.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika, and various bird species. Frequent bear sightings highlight the importance of using bear-proof lockers for food storage.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly documented; however, the high elevation suggests potential opportunities for snow-related recreation in off-season months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not described as available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless restrictions are imposed due to dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are enforced nightly during peak season.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area; all food should be stored in bear-proof lockers. Elevation may pose challenges for travelers unaccustomed to high-altitude conditions.
Active alertsFire restrictions, bear activity warnings, and high elevation advisories are current concerns.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 4
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters and recycling bins are provided throughout the campground. Campers are encouraged to use them to keep the area clean and discourage wildlife activity.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Rock Creek, a cascading stream originating in the John Muir Wilderness.
Common complaintsComplaints from reviews include uneven tent pads, small or sloped sites, inaccurate campsite descriptions, and limited RV/trailer accessibility.
HostThe campground hosts are well-regarded for their helpfulness, especially Dennis and Terry Huff. Reviews consistently praise their friendliness and diligence.
Campground Map
INYO
Driving directionsFrom Bishop or Mammoth Lakes, California, follow U.S. Highway 395 (about 30 miles north of Bishop). Take the Tom's Place exit and go 6 miles on Rock Creek Road.
This facility is reached via U.S. Highway 395, a well-maintained paved road. The final 6 miles to the campground are also paved, but trailers/RVs over 35 feet are not recommended due to road conditions.Nearby places
Bishop (approximately 30 miles), Mammoth Lakes (approximately 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.6
208 reviews
East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
East Fork Campground is highly regarded for its cleanliness, scenic location, and well-maintained facilities. However, opinions vary significantly based on campsite choice and personal preferences. Sites near the creek are highly sought after for their shade and proximity to water, while others are criticized for being uneven and lacking privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 208 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's cleanliness, beautiful setting, and friendly, accommodating hosts are frequently praised. Many users highlight the proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities as major...
Based on 208 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include uneven or sloped campsites, lack of shade, mosquito prevalence, and noise from neighboring campers. Some users express frustration with reservation policies and the...
Based on 208 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend arriving early for first-come, first-served sites near the creek, bringing mosquito repellent, and being prepared for cold nights. Campers also suggest checking site descriptions...
Based on 208 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground becomes very busy during peak summer months, with increased bear activity reported. Cold nights are common even in summer, and mosquito prevalence peaks in mid-July. Winter camping is...
Based on 208 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Bathrooms were very clean, and the camp hosts were friendly and helpful." "Make sure to bring mosquito repellent; they are fierce in mid-summer." "The creekside sites are gorgeous but book up...
Based on 208 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 35 is praised for its shade and proximity to the creek. Sites 128 and 126 are noted for being narrow and sloped, challenging for RVs. Site 27 is criticized for its steep access to the tent pad...
Based on 208 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews indicate that certain sites may be difficult for individuals with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and narrow pathways.
Based on 208 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be leashed. One user reported an unpleasant experience with neighboring campers who did not leash their dogs.
Based on 208 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025