Lake George Campground
4.2416 reviews2510 Hwy 203 Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Lake George Campground
$34.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Overnight use costs $34 per single site per night. America The Beautiful Access/Senior Passes offer a 50% discount on single campsites occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Nestled like a hidden gem within the breathtaking Mammoth Lakes Basin, Lake George Campground offers an intimate mountain escape where only 16 lucky campers can claim their spot each night. This charming first-come, first-served haven sits perched on a scenic loop above the shimmering waters of Lake George, creating the perfect basecamp for those seeking authentic alpine adventures without the crowds. Each morning, you'll wake to the gentle lapping of crystal-clear waters and the whisper of wind through ancient pines.
Lake George Campground is a tent camping site with first-come, first-served access. There are 15 campsites available in this smaller, intimate campground near the shore of Lake George.
Weather and SeasonsAt 9,000 feet, Lake George Campground delivers the full high-altitude experience with sun-drenched days that give way to crisp, star-filled nights. Summer temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking and fishing, but wise campers pack their warm layers—evening temperatures can dip dramatically, turning your campfire into the evening's main attraction. Outside the typical season, winter's snow blanket transforms this alpine paradise into a wonderland, while mountain winds occasionally remind visitors of nature's raw power at this elevation.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,000 feet above sea level, this high-altitude sanctuary places you among the clouds where the air is thin, pure, and invigorating. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system that keeps summer days refreshingly cool, while nights invite cozy gatherings around crackling campfires. This lofty setting means you'll experience weather that can shift from sunshine to wind in moments, adding an element of mountain adventure to every stay.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering lodgepole pines stand as silent sentinels around your campsite, their slender trunks creating a natural cathedral that frames views of Lake George's deep sapphire waters. The surrounding Mammoth Lakes Basin unfolds in layers of alpine splendor—from mirror-like lakes reflecting jagged peaks to meadows that burst with wildflowers in season. This pristine corner of the Eastern Sierra serves up the kind of postcard-perfect scenery that makes photographers weep with joy and creates memories that last a lifetime.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Inyo National Forest, Lake George Campground showcases the dramatic geology of the Mammoth Lakes Basin—a landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic forces and patient glaciers. This remarkable high-elevation ecosystem supports dense forests of lodgepole pines that thrive in the thin mountain air, while a chain of pristine alpine lakes tells the story of ice age glaciers that carved these mountain bowls. It's a living testament to the powerful forces that shaped California's stunning Eastern Sierra.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilet in the parking lot is wheelchair-friendly, but there is no additional information about other accessibility features for the campground.
Sites SizeThe parking aprons in campsites measure approximately 19' by 21'5" for two-apron sites. Some sites have three aprons.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is limited, as evidenced by descriptions such as "There is no privacy between camp sites."
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites with proximity to Lake George for scenic views and ease of access to hiking trails. Sites on the outer edge of the loop may offer additional privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsite #16 received positive feedback for privacy and its accommodating layout.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 consecutive days allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 16 campsites arranged in a single loop around a knoll above Lake George. Parking aprons are paved and typically vertical side-by-side.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 24 through September 10.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations can be made as the campground is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors should arrive early to secure a spot.
Cancellation PolicyThere is no reservation policy as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides opportunities for various activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic location near Lake George.
Hiking
The campground offers access to multiple hiking trails, including the TJ/Barrett Trail (0.75 miles) and the Crystal Lake Trail (1.75 miles). These trails are also open to horseback riding. User reviews highlight the trails’ beauty: "When you walk on trail to Lake George you can continue to Barrett Lake and TJ Lake."Fishing
The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, making it a popular fishing location. However, some visitors have commented on the difficulty of catching fish: "Been here 6 hours still no fish" (Nick Moore).Boating
Non-motorized boating opportunities are available, including kayaking and paddleboarding, as observed by users: "We also went paddleboarding."Wildlife viewing
Bears are frequently seen in the area, underlining the importance of using bear-safe practices. Other wildlife commonly observed has not been specified.Winter Activities
Snowshoeing is mentioned during the winter months, with snow levels making the area ideal for such activities. "Snowshoeing?, it's that time of year. Started at the Panorama Dome Trail and proceeded snowshoeing to George Lake."Water Sports
Opportunities for non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding are present, although motorized activities such as water skiing are not allowed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must follow local regulations. Visitors should consult current fire restrictions during their stay.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is high in the area, requiring visitors to use bear-proof food storage techniques. Wildlife fines for improper food storage start at $150.
Active alertsThe campground is closed for the winter season until June 6, 2025.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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 (Address: 2510 Hwy 203 Mammoth Lakes, CA, Phone: (760) 924-5500, Hours: Daily, 8:00am-5:00pm, closed on federal holidays)
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 24 through September 10
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available, and campers are required to dispose of all trash there as part of bear safety measures.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is just a short walk from the shore of Lake George, a 30-acre lake known for its clear waters and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention overcrowded conditions and day use traffic through the campground. Bears are frequently cited as a safety concern.
HostMixed reviews from user comments. Some mention discriminatory treatment by a host named Gary, while other hosts receive positive feedback for helpfulness.
Campground Map
2510 Hwy 203 Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Driving directionsTake US 395 to State Highway 203. Head west to and through the town of Mammoth Lakes. Hwy 203 becomes Main Street, and then becomes Lake Mary Road which will lead to the Lakes Basin. Past the 1st lake take the 3rd left. Over the bridge take a right and drive up the hill to Lake George and the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures apply during the winter months when the campground is closed.Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes (5-10 minutes drive, approximately 3 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are likely available in Mammoth Lakes, which is 5-10 minutes drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
16 reviews
Lake George Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lake George Campground receives a mix of positive and negative reviews. Many campers appreciate its scenic location and well-maintained facilities, but some have had issues with camp hosts and the crowded nature of the campground during peak seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful location near Lake George with clean facilities, flush toilets, and potable water are consistent highlights. Users also praise the hiking trails and the serenity of the surroundings.
Based on 16 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with camp hosts have been noted, including allegations of discriminatory behavior. Other complaints include crowded conditions during peak times, a lack of privacy between campsites, and the...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for a better chance of securing a campsite. Use bear boxes diligently and secure tents well due to occasional strong winds. Consider visiting during weekdays for fewer crowds.
Based on 16 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open May 24 through September 10. During peak summer months, it can get crowded. Winter activities like snowshoeing around the lake are popular during the off-season.
Based on 16 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful small campground that does not take reservations" (Erin Heiserman). "Amazing campground! The grounds are well-kept and the surrounding area is absolutely beautiful" (Avalyn1). "Watch out...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #16 was described as private and accommodating, "pine tree scattered" by Erin Heiserman.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
Limited accessibility details are provided, aside from the wheelchair-friendly vault toilet.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed in all developed recreation areas.
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025