Glass Creek Campground
4.5861 reviewsGlass Creek Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Glass Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees are required for this site. Donations are appreciated.
About this campground
Escape to Glass Creek Campground, where 66 spacious sites nestle beneath towering pine canopies just north of Mammoth Lakes. This pristine forest retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, with generous sites that can accommodate rigs up to 45 feet in length. While you'll find solitude without hookups in this dry camping paradise, you'll discover endless adventure at your doorstep—from the crystal-clear Owens River Headwaters to the fascinating volcanic formations of Obsidian Dome.
Glass Creek Campground offers a variety of camping options, including sites for RVs and tents, as well as a double site for larger groups.
Historical SignificanceGlass Creek Campground tells a story of thoughtful conservation and evolution. What began as a scattered collection of informal camping spots has been carefully transformed into today's organized campground, yet the original spirit of wilderness camping lives on. The thoughtful design preserves both the wild character that drew early visitors and protects the delicate forest ecosystem for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain seasons at Glass Creek, where summer brings blissfully cool days perfect for hiking and exploring, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland. The campground's vault toilets remain accessible throughout the year, though adventurous souls visiting during colder months should come prepared with their own water supply as temperatures can dip well below freezing.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,600 feet above sea level, Glass Creek offers a refreshing mountain escape where summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even when the valleys below swelter. This high-altitude haven provides the perfect respite from heat, with crisp mountain air and comfortable conditions ideal for outdoor adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of Jeffrey and Ponderosa pines, where dappled sunlight filters through ancient branches and the gentle murmur of Glass Creek provides nature's soundtrack. The forest floor, carpeted with pine needles and dotted with wildflowers in season, creates an enchanting backdrop for your camping experience. The creek's presence adds both visual beauty and a soothing ambiance that will lull you to sleep each night.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Inyo National Forest, Glass Creek Campground sits at the intersection of natural wonders. The campground straddles its namesake creek while being embraced by stands of majestic Jeffrey and Ponderosa pines. This unique location places you in the heart of the Eastern Sierra's volcanic landscape, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a terrain of extraordinary beauty and scientific interest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation about specific accessibility features is not provided in official or user sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious, accommodating RVs up to 45 feet and room for multiple tents.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are generally spacious but not heavily secluded. Some user reviews mention crowding during peak times, while others highlight the peacefulness of the area.
Total Campsites66 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRV users recommend contacting the host for suitable spots. Creek-side sites offer refreshing views and access.
Best CampsitesMost sites are spacious and suitable for RVs or tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Self-registration upon arrival.
Check-out
Self-registration upon departure.
Stay Limit
14 day stay limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
6for single sites, 12 for double sites
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are organized on both sides of the creek and provide spacious parking aprons.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - October 31 (dependent on snow).
Reservation PlatformsSelf-registration upon arrival.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis; weekends may be busy.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation cancellation policies as the campground is first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Glass Creek Campground can enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, including off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails, wildlife viewing, and proximity to day trips such as Yosemite National Park. The campground's natural setting includes Jeffrey and Ponderosa pines, offering plenty of shade and a serene atmosphere.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is noted, although some users report a decrease in wildlife sightings, possibly due to increased noise from OHV activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available at each site. Users are advised to follow fire safety regulations.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe site is located in bear country, requiring proper food storage techniques. Wildlife such as birds and squirrels are common.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.7 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
Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center, 2510 Hwy 203 Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, Phone: (760) 924-5500, Daily operational hours 8:00am - 5:00pm (except federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 through November 11 (weather-dependent).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers are required to pack out all trash to maintain the site's cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresGlass Creek runs through the campground. The creek is noted for its refreshing ambiance.
Common complaintsSome users complain about noise from nearby OHV activity and crowds during peak times. Occasional conflicts with campground hosts are mentioned.
HostJohn is a frequently mentioned campground host described as helpful and attentive, though some reviews mention issues with his enforcement style.
Campground Map
Glass Creek Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Driving directionsFrom Mammoth Lakes, CA, take State Rt. 203 east 1 mile to US Rt. 395. Bear left onto Rt. 395 (north) to Lee Vining and go 8.4 miles to Glass Creek Rd. Turn left onto Glass Creek Rd. and go 0.3 miles to road on right. Turn right and go 0.2 miles to campground. NOTE: Campground sign not displayed at the left turn off Hwy 395.
The campground is accessible west of US 395 north of Mammoth Lakes. Note that the campground sign is not displayed at the left turn off Hwy 395.Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes: approximately 8.4 miles, Lee Vining: 29 miles
Nearby supplies
An RV waste station with potable water is available for a fee at New Shady Rest campground in Mammoth Lakes, CA. Crestview rest area approximately 2 miles south of the campground on HWY 395 provides fresh water.
Camper Reviews
4.6
61 reviews
Glass Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Glass Creek Campground is highly praised by users for its affordability (free with optional donations), natural beauty, cleanliness, and spacious sites. It is popular with RV campers and OHV enthusiasts. Some users, however, have expressed concerns about crowding during peak times and noise from generators or OHV activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 61 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to nature. The presence of a friendly and attentive camp host is also often praised.
Based on 61 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users complain about noise from generators and OHV activities. A few reviews mention occasional difficulties with the camp host. Crowding during peak times is another common issue.
Based on 61 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and trash bags as these services are not provided. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends. Donations are encouraged to support maintenance.
Based on 61 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busier in summer and fall, with users reporting more crowding during these seasons. Wildlife sightings are reportedly less frequent during busy periods due to noise.
Based on 61 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Vault toilets are very very clean and even cleaner than most of the restrooms I’ve seen in campgrounds that cost.' 'Camping spots are HUGE!' 'Best campground I ever been!' 'Bring your own water.'...
Based on 61 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some reviews recommend avoiding peak weekends to find the best sites and to minimize generator noise from RVs.
Based on 61 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities were provided.
Based on 61 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users confirm the campground is pet-friendly, but note the requirement to keep pets leashed.
Based on 61 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025