Ellery Lake Campground
4.5213 reviewsFrom Lee Vining, CA, take US Rt. 395 south 0.3 miles to Tioga Pass sign. Turn right onto State Rt. 120 west and go 9.8 miles to campground on left.
Ellery Lake Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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
Overnight camping fee is $28 per night for a single site. Additional vehicle fee is $10 per night. America The Beautiful Access/Senior Passes are honored, providing a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass holder only. Payment must be made with cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled at a breathtaking 9,500 feet elevation beside the pristine waters of Ellery Lake, this intimate mountain retreat offers 12 thoughtfully positioned campsites for those seeking alpine solitude. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including bear-proof food lockers, grills, and picnic tables, while some accommodate RVs up to 28 feet. For the adventurous, walk-in tent sites dot the banks of a babbling creek, offering an even more immersive wilderness experience. A hidden trail behind campsite #14 leads over a gentle hill to Ellery Lake's sparkling shores, where morning mists dance across the water. As this is active bear country, the campground's bear-proof storage ensures both wildlife and visitor safety remain paramount.
Ellery Lake Campground offers a mix of camping options, including standard tent sites and combined sites that accommodate both tents and small vehicles. Group camping, cabins, RV hookups, and glamping are not available.
Historical SignificancePerched at the eastern gateway to Yosemite National Park, Ellery Lake Campground serves as a threshold between two remarkable worlds. To the west lies the storied wilderness of Yosemite, where John Muir once wandered and Native Americans thrived for millennia. To the east stretches the Mono Basin Scenic Area, a landscape shaped by volcanic forces and ancient seas, where tufa towers and alkaline waters tell tales of geological drama spanning millions of years.
Weather and SeasonsHere in the thin air of the high Sierra, nature plays by different rules. Even as July wildflowers bloom in the meadows below, snow clings stubbornly to the surrounding peaks, creating a dramatic backdrop of white against summer blue skies. Days bring crisp, dry mountain air perfect for hiking, while nights demand warm sleeping bags as temperatures plummet, reminding visitors they're camping nearly two miles above sea level. Early season adventurers should pack for winter conditions, as freezing temperatures and surprise snowstorms can sweep through well into June.
ElevationAt 9,500 feet above sea level, Ellery Lake Campground invites visitors into the rarefied realm of the alpine zone. Here, the air carries 30% less oxygen than at sea level, turning simple tasks into mindful activities and encouraging a slower, more deliberate pace. The elevation brings rewards beyond measure: crystalline air that reveals stars in stunning clarity, temperatures that provide natural air conditioning even in summer, and panoramic views that stretch for miles across the Sierra Nevada's granite backbone.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom every campsite, jagged peaks pierce the sky, their granite faces telling stories written in stone over eons. The campground's natural landscaping of native willow shrubs creates intimate camping nooks while providing habitat for local wildlife. These same willows, thriving in the mountain moisture, occasionally host mosquitoes during peak summer – a small price for such spectacular surroundings. The jewel of the area remains Ellery Lake itself, its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding peaks and offering endless opportunities for photography, quiet contemplation, or simply watching alpenglow paint the mountains at sunset.
Geological RegionPositioned east of Tioga Pass along Yosemite's dramatic eastern entrance, the campground occupies a geological wonderland where ancient glaciers carved deep valleys and polished granite domes. This 9,500-foot perch sits precisely where the Sierra Nevada's eastern escarpment plunges toward the Great Basin, creating one of the most dramatic elevation changes in North America. The surrounding peaks, sculpted by ice and time, tower above meadows dotted with hardy willows that have adapted to the harsh alpine environment. This is quintessential Sierra Nevada terrain – a landscape of extremes where volcanic and glacial forces have collaborated to create one of Earth's most spectacular mountain environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are provided, but no further accessibility features are detailed.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as small, especially the walk-in tent sites near the creek.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer some privacy due to willow shrubs, though some areas lack shade and are exposed to the sun.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose a spot with trees for shade as many campsites are exposed to the sun, according to user reviews. Walk-in tent sites along the creek offer more privacy.
Best CampsitesUsers recommend sites along the creek for more privacy. Campsite #14 is noted for its proximity to Ellery Lake.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 day stay limit.
Groups
Group camping facilities are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a small loop layout with 14 sites, including walk-in tent sites along the creek and vehicle-accessible sites accommodating vehicles up to 28 feet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 22 through October 15.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come first-served basis. No reservations available.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers an immersive outdoor experience with activities such as fishing for Golden, Brown, and Rainbow trout. Located near Yosemite National Park, it is well-positioned for day trips, though it lacks formal hiking trails or other recreational infrastructure.
Fishing
Fishing is available in Ellery Lake, with species such as Golden, Brown, and Rainbow trout.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter season, from October 15 to May 22, making winter activities unavailable.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained within established fire rings.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear area requiring strict food storage practices. Mosquitoes are prevalent due to willow shrubs. Steep grades and challenging terrain may hinder access for trailers.
Active alertsCurrently closed for winter. Tentative opening date: June 13, 2025.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center (1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA 93541; Phone: (760) 647-3044). Open daily from 9 AM - 5 PM (Closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specified, although bear-proof food storage is provided for safety.
Proximity to water featuresEllery Lake is accessible via a short walk behind campsite #14. Walk-in tent sites are located along a creek.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention small tent sites and lack of privacy due to proximity to other users. Complaints also highlight host management issues and illegal camping activities near the entrance.
HostMixed reviews about the campground host. Some users found the host helpful and kind, while others noted issues with memory and management.
Campground Map
From Lee Vining, CA, take US Rt. 395 south 0.3 miles to Tioga Pass sign. Turn right onto State Rt. 120 west and go 9.8 miles to campground on left.
Driving directionsFrom Lee Vining, CA, take US Rt. 395 south 0.3 miles to Tioga Pass sign. Turn right onto State Rt. 120 west and go 9.8 miles to campground on left. Note: Road sign on State Rt. 120 states: 'Steep grade, difficult for trailers.'
The campground is accessible via State Rt. 120 west from US Rt. 395. However, the road features a steep grade and is noted to be difficult for trailers.Nearby places
Lee Vining: 9.8 miles (approximately 20 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Fuel is available at the Mobil gas station at the intersection of US 395 and State Rt. 120. Additional supplies may need to be brought in from Lee Vining.
Camper Reviews
4.5
13 reviews
Ellery Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews suggest that Ellery Lake Campground is valued for its serene environment, beautiful views, and proximity to Yosemite National Park. However, the lack of amenities and some issues with management have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's scenic location, quiet atmosphere, clean facilities, and proximity to Yosemite. Many highlight the stunning night skies and views of the Milky Way.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of shade at certain sites, limited parking for additional vehicles, unhelpful or forgetful camp hosts, and occasional rude behavior from other visitors. Some users...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent, a thermos for hot drinks, and all necessary food and supplies, as there are no nearby restaurants or stores. Fill up on gas before arriving, and be prepared for cold...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with visitors praising clear skies and pleasant nights. However, some complaints arise about overcrowding and lack of shade. Winter closures limit accessibility.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Really beautiful lake outside Yosemite National Park, you can save money by camping here." (Chien-Chang Chen)
2. "Very quiet at night, with amazing views of stars and the Milky Way." (Igor...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #14 provides access to the lake over a hill. Walk-in tent sites are near the creek, offering a more secluded experience but may be smaller and harder to pitch tents in due to hard ground.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No detailed user reviews about accessibility, although wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. No specific user reviews address pet facilities or policies.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025