Forks Campground (Inyo)

Star4.43
33 reviews
3 South Lake Road, Bishop, CA, 93514
Forks Campground (Inyo)
$34.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates for individual campsites are $34 per night, applicable to both tent-only and standard non-electric sites. Additional reservation...
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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

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
760-872-4552

About this campground

Tucked away where the South Fork and Middle Fork of Bishop Creek converge, Forks Campground offers a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude in nature's embrace. This hidden gem remains refreshingly uncrowded, allowing visitors to truly disconnect beneath a canopy of whispering aspens and towering pines. With an impressive 4.38 rating from fellow campers, it's clear that those who discover this peaceful retreat often leave with memories worth cherishing.
Forks Campground accommodates a variety of camping setups, including tent and RV camping. Group sites or cabin accommodations are not available.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Forks Campground awakens to welcome adventurers with predominantly clear skies and comfortable temperatures that make for perfect camping conditions. While the area typically enjoys dry, pleasant weather throughout the season, Mother Nature occasionally reminds visitors of the high country's unpredictable character with surprise snowfall that transforms the landscape into a temporary winter wonderland.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle melody of Bishop Creek flowing just steps from your tent, while morning light filters through a living cathedral of aspen leaves and pine boughs. Select campsites offer coveted creekside locations where you can fall asleep to nature's soundtrack and enjoy unobstructed views of the pristine mountain stream. The interplay of deciduous aspens and evergreen pines creates a dynamic landscape that shifts with the seasons, from spring's fresh greens to autumn's golden display.
Geological RegionPerched at the confluence of Bishop Creek's South and Middle Forks, this mountain sanctuary showcases the raw beauty of California's Eastern Sierra. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in granite peaks and carved by ancient glaciers, now softened by dense forests of aspen and pine that provide both shelter and scenic beauty for modern-day explorers.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground includes one accessible flush toilet. The terrain and layout of the site accommodate a range of campers, but additional specifics on accessibility are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are suited for both tents and trailers. However, some sites are described as smaller and better suited for specific setups. For example, a user shared, 'This site is great for one or two people and a small vehicle.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. Some sites are in open areas with little shade, while others are tucked among trees providing more seclusion. A user commented, 'Some sites in trees, some in open.'
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend choosing sites near the creek for a peaceful experience. Bringing shade structures is advised for sites with limited tree coverage.
Best CampsitesSite 17 is popular but noted for lack of shade during summer; site 23 has a nice view and shade, while site 22 is near the creek and offers peace and shade at varying times of the day.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by check-out time (12:00 PM) the day following the arrival date.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate one additional vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of single-family sites spread across the forest and creek areas. Certain sites are closer to the creek or restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to October 21 during the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability may exist, but reservable sites are prioritized.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur an additional penalty of forfeiting the first night's fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Forks Campground offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The natural surroundings and proximity to Bishop Creek make it an excellent spot for enjoying the outdoors.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, though campers may need to drive to trailheads near South Lake. A user noted, 'You have options to hike although you will have to drive from the camp to a closer place where you can park near the South Lake.'
Fishing
Fishing is highly praised at this campground. Several users mentioned productive fishing experiences in Bishop Creek, with one reviewer noting, 'The trout were biting. My son easily caught 8 over the couple of days we were there.'
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with deer, dragonflies, swallows, and the occasional black bear sighted. One reviewer remarked, 'Saw a tiny fox in the campground, several deer, and even a black bear came through one night.'
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable due to off-season closures.
Water Sports
The campground offers access to Bishop Creek, which may be suitable for light water activities such as wading, but specific water sports are not highlighted.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fire restrictions may be imposed during dry weather. Campfires are only allowed within designated fire pits.

Hazards

General hazardsThe area is active with bears, and campers are advised to use bear lockers for storing food and scented items. Fire hazards may arise during hot and dry weather.

Weather forecast

46
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 44%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 3.2 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services are in Bishop, CA, 15 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 15 to October 21 during peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available on-site and conveniently located near the restrooms. Reviewers appreciated the clean condition of the campground, with one noting, 'Restrooms close by, and trash bins not too far away.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Bishop Creek, with some campsites directly along the creek banks.
Common complaintsSome users have mentioned the campground can be hot during summer with limited shade at certain sites. Mosquitos and cleanliness of restrooms have also been noted as issues in reviews.
HostGeorge and Kathy are the hosts, described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews such as 'They really take pride in taking care of their campsites.'

Campground Map

3 South Lake Road, Bishop, CA, 93514
Driving directionsFrom Bishop, go west on State Route 168 (Line Street) approximately 15 miles. Turn left at the junction of the South Lake Road, the campground will be the first right turn about 1/4 mile.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, and is located about 15 miles west of Bishop. Roads are generally in good condition.
Nearby places
Bishop (15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Bishop, CA, approximately 15 miles away.

Camper Reviews

4.4
33 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Forks Campground (Inyo) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently describe Forks Campground as clean, quiet, and conveniently located for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. Camp hosts receive high praise for their friendliness and maintenance efforts.
Review Summaries
Based on 33 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground is well-maintained, clean, and offers a peaceful setting. Fishing and wildlife viewing are standout activities. Many reviews mention friendly and helpful camp hosts.
Based on 33 reviews

Common Concerns

Some sites lack shade, making them less comfortable during hot weather. There were also occasional comments about restrooms not being cleaned daily, and some users disliked the two-night minimum stay...
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Based on 33 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring additional shade structures for sites without natural shade. Use the bear-proof storage lockers to avoid issues with active bears. Campers seeking hiking trails may need to drive to nearby...
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Based on 33 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight fishing and wildlife viewing but mention the need for shade due to heat. Autumn reviews praise the campground's quieter atmosphere and cooler weather.
Based on 33 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Wow! What an amazing campground! Beautiful views and very close to fishing!' 2. 'The campground hosts, George and Kathy, are very nice, friendly, and helpful.' 3. 'Amongst the breathtaking...
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Based on 33 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 17: Highly rated for its size and proximity to the creek but lacks shade. Site 22: Praised for its peaceful setting and productive fishing. Site 23: Described as having a nice view, shade, and...
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Based on 33 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features beyond the general cleanliness and maintenance of the campground.
Based on 33 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be leashed. A two-pet limit per site applies. No reviews mention issues or specific facilities for pets.
Based on 33 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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