Lake Mary Campground
4.41166 reviews650 Gilman St, Palo Alto, CA, USA 94301
Lake Mary 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
The nightly fee for standard non-electric sites at Lake Mary Campground is $34 during peak season (May 23 to September 20). Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or additional charges such as the reservation fee.
About this campground
Perched high in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, Lake Mary Campground offers a pristine mountain escape in the heart of Mammoth Lakes. This expansive facility combines modern conveniences with breathtaking wilderness, where well-maintained sites equipped with bear boxes, flush toilets, and fresh water spigots nestle beneath towering lodgepole pines. Wake to mirror-like reflections on Lake Mary's surface and spend your days exploring one of California's most spectacular alpine playgrounds.
Lake Mary Campground provides options for RV camping, tent camping, and group sites. "Big camp spots," notes Rachel A regarding tent camping. RV camping setups are on asphalt as Mike Lorenz mentions.
Historical SignificanceLong before modern adventurers discovered these crystal waters, Native American tribes traversed these mountain passes, following ancient trading routes and seasonal hunting grounds. Lake Mary stands as a testament to the region's transformation from indigenous homeland to frontier settlement, and eventually to the beloved recreation destination it is today. The lake itself has anchored the Mammoth Lakes recreational experience for generations, drawing families back year after year to create their own chapters in this ongoing mountain story.
Weather and SeasonsAt Lake Mary, mountain weather writes its own rules. Even in summer, you'll experience nature's full spectrum—crisp mornings that demand a warm jacket give way to pleasant afternoons in the 50s, while evening temperatures can plummet dramatically, sometimes touching 27°F on clear July nights. Wind sweeps across the lake with regularity, and surprise snowflakes aren't uncommon in late spring or early fall. This dynamic climate creates an ever-changing canvas of weather that keeps every day interesting and every sunset memorable.
ElevationAt 8,900 feet above sea level, Lake Mary Campground places you firmly in the thin-air territory of the High Sierra. This lofty perch delivers refreshingly cool temperatures and stunning vistas, but demands respect—visitors ascending from sea level should take time to acclimate, staying hydrated and taking it easy for the first day or two. The elevation that makes this campground a summer refuge also makes every breath an adjustment and every hike an accomplishment.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle rustle of lodgepole pines framing your view of Lake Mary's sapphire waters, with the dramatic peaks of the John Muir Wilderness painting the horizon. This 8,900-foot sanctuary serves as nature's amphitheater, where black bears amble through the forest, mountain lions patrol distant ridgelines, and mule deer graze in alpine meadows. Overhead, Clark's nutcrackers and mountain bluebirds add splashes of movement to the sky, while the surrounding wilderness promises endless exploration and photographic opportunities.
Geological RegionThe Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains tell an ancient story written in granite and ice. Here, massive glaciers once carved their signatures into the landscape, sculpting deep canyons and polishing peaks that now soar between 9,000 and 10,000 feet. This dramatic geological canvas creates a playground of granite slabs, alpine lakes, and sweeping valleys—a testament to the powerful forces that shaped one of North America's most magnificent mountain ranges. Every vista reveals another chapter in this ongoing geological narrative, from smooth glacial erratics to sharp-edged peaks still being carved by wind and weather.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include a paved bike trail and relatively easy access to facilities such as water spigots and trash containers.
Sites SizeVaried sizes, with certain sites like Site 49 being noted as very small whereas others are spacious enough for multiple tents.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels; some sites are closely spaced with minimal separation while others offer more seclusion.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 8 and 49 due to small size and poor layout. Sites closer to the lake offer better views but may also have less privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 19, 46, and 47 are highly praised for views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites held until noon the day after arrival.
Check-out
Sites must be vacated by 12 PM on departure day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights in a rolling 30-day window.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites accommodate one vehicle and one tent. Additional vehicles may require a fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into four loops with closely spaced sites. Some sites are lakefront while others are situated in shaded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 and close September 20 for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through their app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but availability is not guaranteed during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancelations incur a $10 fee if done in advance. Late cancellations (after midnight the day before check-in) will forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations also incur a $10 fee. No modifications or cancellations allowed once the reservation's start date begins.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Mary Campground offers a wide range of activities including fishing, hiking, and boating. "Lake Mary receives the highest number of trout stocks in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, and is well-known to anglers," states the official overview. Biking is also popular, supported by the Mammoth Lakes Bike Trail which runs through the campground.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound with trails nearby including routes into the John Muir Wilderness. "Crystal Lake hiking trail had great views!" says Josh Davidian.Fishing
Fishing is highly rated. "Lake Mary receives the highest number of trout stocks in the Mammoth Lakes Basin," reports the official overview. Reviewers frequently mention catching trout.Biking
Biking trails are available and cater to various skill levels. "Situated perfectly on the Mammoth Lakes Bike Trail," notes Andrew S.Boating
Boating is supported with marinas on both sides of the lake offering rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoon boats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight with frequent bear sightings. "Almost guaranteed to see a bear here," says PhatSnack.Winter Activities
During winter, the Tamarack XC ski center nearby offers cross-country skiing and other winter sports.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are popular and supported by rental facilities at the marina.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Fire restrictions may apply during hot, dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity reported; bears are habituated and can raid campsites if food is not properly stored. Windy conditions may prevent campfires. High elevation may cause altitude sickness for some visitors.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions may be in place. Bears are active and require proper food storage.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 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
Mammoth Hospital, Mammoth Lakes Police Department, and Mammoth Ranger District are located in Mammoth Lakes, approximately 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but may be challenging to access from certain campsites. Multiple reviews indicate the importance of promptly disposing of trash due to bear activity.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Lake Mary, with walking distance access to the shoreline. Nearby Twin Lakes offers additional water activities.
Common complaintsHigh proximity between campsites, lack of privacy, and bear encounters are frequent complaints. Dusty conditions and windy nights make campfires challenging.
HostCamp hosts are frequently praised for being friendly, helpful, and keeping restrooms clean.
Campground Map
650 Gilman St, Palo Alto, CA, USA 94301
Driving directionsTake U.S. 395 to Mammoth Junction and Highway 203. Turn west on Highway 203 and drive through the town of Mammoth Lakes to the junction of Minaret Road/Highway 203 and Lake Mary Road. Continue straight through the intersection and drive 3.6 miles to Lake Mary Loop Drive. Turn right and drive 0.5 miles to the campground entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but it is located at a high elevation of 8,900 feet, so travelers from lower elevations should exercise caution to avoid altitude sickness. Seasonal access challenges include snow, especially in late spring or early fall.Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes (approximately 5 miles, 15 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping equipment are available in Mammoth Lakes, around 5 miles away. Twin Lakes General Store offers showers and basic supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
166 reviews
Lake Mary Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Lake Mary Campground's stunning location and great amenities. Common praises include clean bathrooms, friendly hosts, and proximity to the lake and trails. However, issues like dusty sites, bear activity, and lack of showers are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 166 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, friendly hosts, picturesque views, proximity to the lake, and well-maintained facilities are frequently praised.
Based on 166 reviewsCommon Concerns
Dusty campsites, closely spaced sites with limited privacy, bear activity at night, and lack of showers are common complaints.
Based on 166 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Pay attention to the rules and the bears will just walk by," advises PhatSnack. Other tips include bringing stakes for windy nights and packing for all seasons.
Based on 166 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping at Lake Mary, with frequent mentions of pleasant weather and active wildlife. Winter activities like cross-country skiing are available nearby.
Based on 166 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The weather couldn't be better. The campground was clean and nice. Wish we could stay longer," says Su Lin C. "Caught a couple of trout in Lake Mary. Great camp. Great views," remarks E S.
Based on 166 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 47 is described as having amazing views but needing extra effort for access. Site 49 is criticized for being very small and poorly laid out. Site 40 is praised for its proximity to clean...
Based on 166 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are generally well-rated, with paved paths facilitating easy access. "Bathrooms were extremely clean and pleasant," notes Juha T.
Based on 166 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but limited to two per site. "Only 2 pets per site allowed," states the official overview.
Based on 166 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025