Hartley Springs Campground
4.6323 reviewsnull
Hartley Springs 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
The site is free to use, with no charges for camping. However, visitors have mentioned donations are encouraged, sometimes at a suggested rate of $10 per night.
About this campground
Escape to the high country at Hartley Springs Campground, where 25 primitive campsites await at a breathtaking elevation of 8,400 feet. This hidden gem in the Inyo National Forest sits perfectly positioned between the majestic June Mountain and the fascinating volcanic formation of Obsidian Dome. As a free camping destination, Hartley Springs offers the essentials for an authentic wilderness experience: sturdy picnic tables, established fire rings, and clean vault toilets. The campground has become a beloved basecamp for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, with countless trails radiating from this mountain hub. While the area's wild beauty attracts both adventurers and local black bears, visitors should come prepared with their own water and pack-out system, as this pristine location maintains its primitive charm without water or trash services.
Hartley Springs Campground offers primitive, dispersed-style camping. It caters to a variety of campers, including those with tents, RVs, or trailers.
Historical SignificanceWhile Hartley Springs may not boast documented historical landmarks, its story unfolds through the experiences of generations of campers who have found solitude and adventure in these high mountain meadows.
Weather and SeasonsThe high-elevation climate at Hartley Springs creates a dynamic seasonal experience that rewards prepared campers. Early season adventurers in May and late-season visitors in October should expect crisp mountain air and possible snow dustings, making for spectacular photography but requiring warm gear. Summer transforms the campground into a mild mountain retreat, though the popularity with OHV riders means dust can dance through the air on busy weekends. The dry summer conditions create perfect camping weather, with cool nights that invite stargazing and warm days ideal for exploration.
ElevationPerched at 8,400 feet above sea level, Hartley Springs offers a true high-altitude camping experience. The thin mountain air provides natural air conditioning during summer months, while the elevation creates stunning sunrise and sunset views across the Eastern Sierra landscape. Visitors should allow time to acclimate to the altitude, staying hydrated and taking it easy on their first day to fully enjoy all the adventures that await.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering Ponderosa and Jeffrey pines create a natural cathedral, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the mountain air. Majestic White firs add their silvery-green presence to this forest tapestry, providing shade and shelter throughout the campground. Small meadow clearings dotted with native grasses offer perfect spots for morning coffee or evening campfire gatherings. The nearby tributaries that feed the Owens River headwaters whisper through the forest, creating a soothing soundtrack for your mountain retreat.
Geological RegionHartley Springs Campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads in the Inyo National Forest, where ancient volcanic activity meets glacial sculpting at 8,400 feet. The campground's unique position between June Mountain's ski slopes and the glassy black wonderland of Obsidian Dome tells a story millions of years in the making. This forest sanctuary, dominated by aromatic Ponderosa and Jeffrey pines alongside stately White firs, showcases the diverse ecosystems that thrive where the Eastern Sierra's dramatic geology creates perfect growing conditions for these mountain giants.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not specifically advertise ADA-accessible features. However, one user noted the camp host's assistance with a disabled guest.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as being large, flat, and able to accommodate multiple trailers or RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are widely spaced among pine trees, providing good privacy at most campsites.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites featuring ample privacy and shade are recommended. Avoid weekends if seeking tranquility, as noted by user reviews complaining about late-night parties.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers are not mentioned as the sites are all numbered without unique features.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
14 days maximum stay per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground sites are widely spaced among forested areas, with dirt parking aprons and irregular shapes.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from late May to October 1, subject to snow conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only, as reservations are not accepted. User reviews mention that the campground fills up quickly during weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not applicable as reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hartley Springs Campground is ideal for those seeking outdoor recreational activities. The area is particularly popular among off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts due to its abundance of nearby trails. Additionally, the pine forest surroundings and proximity to Owens River's tributaries make it suitable for nature lovers.
Hiking
Numerous OHV trails in the area can also be used for hiking. The trails are extensive, making the campground a great base for off-road and hiking activities.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in bear country, so campers are likely to encounter wildlife. Users have reported seeing bears around the campground.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months and no winter activities are provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available at or near this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Metal fire rings are available for campfires. No further restrictions are mentioned.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is reported in the region, with fines of at least $150 for non-compliance with food storage regulations. The area can also get dusty due to OHV trails, and late-night parties might create disturbances during weekends.
Active alertsClosures due to surrounding forest fires have been mentioned in user reviews, but no official alerts are provided.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center provides visitor information but not emergency services. Emergency services are not mentioned; assume Lee Vining or Mammoth Lakes to be the closest emergency locations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak usage occurs during holidays and weekends, especially around Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, as noted by user reviews.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are not available. Campers must pack out all garbage.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features are available in the campground. Tributaries to the Owens River headwaters are nearby.
Common complaintsUser complaints include the rough access road, dustiness from OHV trails, and overcrowding during weekends, leading to late-night noise and parties. Some users also reported rude behavior from the camp host.
HostThe campground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in most reviews, although one user reported unpleasant experiences. Hosts maintain cleanliness of vault toilets and assist campers with issues.
Campground Map
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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 11.3 miles to Hartley Springs sign. Turn left onto gravel road and go 0.9 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear right onto Forest Rt. 2S48 and go 0.7 miles to campground on right. NOTE: Last 1.6 miles is rough.
Access to the campground involves traveling on a gravel road, which becomes rough and challenging over the last 1.6 miles. User reviews confirm that the road is bumpy, sandy, and steep, but navigable with careful driving. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. One user noted, 'Definitely expect to encounter wildlife as well – we slept in the car and saw a bear sniffing around at night.'Nearby places
Nearby cities include Mammoth Lakes (approximately 11.3 miles south) and June Lake (closer, but distance not specified).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely available in Mammoth Lakes, which is approximately 11.3 miles away. No official information is provided about specific stores or fuel availability.
Camper Reviews
4.6
23 reviews
Hartley Springs Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as a great free site, especially for those who enjoy OHV activities and the dispersed camping feel. While some praise its peacefulness and spacious sites, others criticize overcrowding on weekends and inadequate signage.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the spacious sites, the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the helpfulness of the camp host, and the campground's excellent location near trails and lakes.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include overcrowding, particularly during weekends and holidays, noisy OHV activity, partygoers disturbing the peace, and the rough road leading to the campground.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, extra toilet paper, and a high-clearance vehicle for easier access. Consider weekdays for a quieter experience. Leave a donation to help maintain the site.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest on weekends and during summer. Weekdays are quieter, and off-peak months like September see less congestion. Reviews also note that wildlife sightings are common,...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This place is better than many state parks I've visited." - Chris Rosenau. "I loved this place because it is in between June Lake-Silver Lake and Mammoth Lakes." - Hector J Mendoza. "We slept in the...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site numbers are not consistently marked. One review noted the 'circle-your-wagons' style of some sites, making them ideal for families or groups.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
A review highlighted the camp host assisting a disabled camper whose electric scooter broke down.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must be leashed. Several users appreciated the pet-friendly policy.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025