Junction Campground
4.3013 reviewsJunction Campground, CA
Junction Campground
$10.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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 use: Single Site costs $25/night. Additional Vehicle costs $10/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to Single Campsites only occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Perched at the dramatic junction where Highway 120 meets Saddlebag Lake Road, Junction Campground serves as your gateway to high-altitude adventure near Yosemite's eastern entrance. This intimate collection of 12 sites sits at a breathtaking 9,600 feet, where ancient pines frame each campsite like nature's own cathedral. While sites 1-5 welcome larger rigs and RVs up to 40 feet, the more secluded sites 6-13 offer cozy spots for smaller vehicles. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—picnic tables for alpine dining, fire rings for evening storytelling, and bear-proof lockers to protect your provisions. This is wilderness camping at its purest: vault toilets near sites 3 and 10 provide basic facilities, but you'll need to bring your own water supply, adding to the authentic backcountry experience.
Junction Campground primarily supports tent and small RV camping, with sites that are first-come-first-serve.
Historical SignificanceJunction Campground places you at the crossroads of Sierra Nevada history. Just a short drive away, the ghost town remnants along Bennettville Trail whisper tales of 19th-century mining dreams, while the stunning Mono Basin Scenic Area reveals ancient geological wonders and the cultural heritage of the Kutzadika'a people who called this region home for thousands of years.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of Sierra seasons at Junction, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland of deep snow and arctic temperatures. As summer arrives, the campground awakens to perfect camping weather—crisp mornings give way to sun-warmed afternoons under impossibly blue skies, while evening temperatures invite you to gather around the campfire. The dry summer conditions create ideal opportunities for stargazing and outdoor adventures, though the high elevation means you'll always want that extra layer handy.
ElevationAt 9,600 feet in the rarified air of the High Sierra, Junction Campground offers a true alpine experience. This elevation demands respect—take time to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and listen to your body as you adjust to the thinner atmosphere. The reward? Crystal-clear air, spectacular night skies, and the exhilarating feeling of camping among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views of the majestic Dana Plateau and the commanding presence of Tioga Peak, their granite faces catching the first light of dawn. The campground's pine-sheltered sites offer glimpses of a charming meadow that stretches between Lee Vining and Mine Creeks, where wildflowers dance in summer breezes. While the open understory of grass beneath stately lodgepole pines creates a park-like atmosphere, it also means you'll share the spectacular views with your neighbors—perfect for those who enjoy the camaraderie of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Geological RegionJunction Campground occupies a spectacular perch in the High Sierra at 9,600 feet, where the raw power of geological forces is written across the landscape. Nestled among aromatic pines near the famous Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite, you're camping atop ancient granite carved by glaciers, surrounded by peaks that tell the story of the Sierra Nevada's dramatic birth millions of years ago.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available. Other accessibility information is not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeSites 1-5 can accommodate RVs or vehicles up to 40 feet in length, while sites 6-13 are suitable for single vehicles no longer than 18 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is situated among pines and a grass understory, offering minimal privacy between sites. User reviews highlight that the area can feel exposed, especially with the constant traffic from cars and RVs searching for open sites.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 1-5 are suitable for larger RVs or multiple vehicles (up to 40 ft). Sites 6-13 are better for single vehicles (up to 18 ft) and tents.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site.
Groups
No designated group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout12 campsites stretch beside a small meadow.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 22 through October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not detailed.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Junction Campground offers limited on-site activities but is close to multiple recreational opportunities. These include hiking trails, fishing, and access to streams and lakes near the campground.
Hiking
The Bennettville Trail, a one-mile hiking trail, leads to the historic Bennettville townsite. User reviews describe the hiking options as pleasant, with one reviewer noting it as a 'small campground with very nice hiking trail.'Fishing
Fishing is possible in nearby streams, and rainbow trout are reported to be available. One user mentioned 'a lot of little streams where you can take a dip or do some fishing.'Winter Activities
No information provided.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports opportunities such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings available at each site.
- Quiet hours are between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires strict adherence to food storage rules. Water hazards like rushing creeks were noted in user reviews.
Active alertsClosed for winter season; tentative reopening June 13, 2025.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.6 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
Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center, 1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA 93541 (Phone: 760-647-3044, Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM, daily except federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 through October 15.
Trash and recyclingNo mention of trash or recycling facilities being explicitly present. Campers are advised to use bear-proof food storage lockers.
Proximity to water featuresNear Lee Vining and Mine Creeks; no lakes or significant water bodies within immediate proximity.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention mosquitoes as a nuisance, lack of enforcement of camp rules, and concerns about the current camp host's management style.
HostMixed reviews about camp host Susan; some praise her friendliness, while others criticize her management style.
Campground Map
Junction Campground, CA
Driving directionsFrom Lee Vining, CA, take US 395 south 0.3 miles to Tioga Pass sign. Turn right onto State Rt. 120 west and go 10.2 miles to Saddlebag Rd sign. Turn right onto Saddlebag Rd and immediately bear left into campground. NOTE: Road sign on State Rt. 120 states: 'Steep grade, difficult for trailers.'
Campground is accessed via CA 120 and Saddlebag Lake Road. The narrow gravel road inside the campground is not recommended for trailers or large vehicles beyond site 5. Sites 1-5 can accommodate RVs or vehicles up to 40 ft, while sites 6-13 are suitable for single vehicles up to 18 ft.Nearby places
Lee Vining (0.3 miles, ~5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Limited groceries, fishing supplies, and meals available at Tioga Pass Resort (~10 miles from campground). Additional supplies accessible in Lee Vining (~0.3 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.3
13 reviews
Junction Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present mixed opinions about Junction Campground. Positive sentiments highlight its scenic setting, friendly camp hosts, and proximity to Yosemite National Park. Negative feedback focuses on the constant traffic of cars and RVs searching for open sites, the presence of mosquitoes, and concerns about the enforcement of campground rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the campground's picturesque views and quiet environment. Comments such as 'Beautiful views of Yosemite' and 'quiet and clean' are common. Reviewers also appreciated the...
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Common Concerns
Several reviewers noted the constant flow of cars and RVs, creating a lack of tranquility. A detailed negative review mentioned issues like poor rule enforcement, inappropriate behavior by some...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Several users recommend bringing bug spray to combat mosquitoes. Additionally, given the lack of potable water, campers are advised to bring adequate water supplies. One user also suggested...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Users noted that the campground is particularly busy during peak season, with sites often fully occupied. Mosquitoes are a common issue during warmer months.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'First come, first serve. Beautiful views of Yosemite, and the host is really nice!' - Maddie Cowell. 2. 'Bring in your own water.' - Carson Quinn. 3. 'Awesome little campground right off Hwy 120,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes mention of sites 1-5 being the most accessible for RVs and larger vehicles, while sites 6-13 are limited to smaller vehicles. One reviewer noted issues with...
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Accessibility Features
The campground includes wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, but no further details on accessibility features or user experiences were provided.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed and must be leashed at all times. No additional feedback related to pets was available.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025