North Lake Campground
4.199 reviews37.2272, -118.6273 is the general location near North Fork Bishop Creek, California.
North Lake Campground
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
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 fee for a single campsite is $32 per night, with an additional vehicle charge of $10 per night. America The Beautiful Senior and Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single campsites, applicable only to the site physically occupied by the pass holder. Payment is accepted via cash or check.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Inyo National Forest, North Lake Campground offers an intimate escape into California's high country. This charming 11-site retreat, including three secluded walk-in spots, whispers rather than shouts its presence among towering Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines. Here, where the North Fork of Bishop Creek tumbles past your tent, anglers cast their lines at dawn while backpackers fuel up before tackling the legendary Piute Pass and Lamarck trails. This is old-school camping at its finest—no piped water, no RV hookups, just you and the raw beauty of the Sierra. The narrow, winding approach road naturally filters out larger rigs, preserving the campground's peaceful, tent-only atmosphere that has drawn outdoor purists for generations.
North Lake Campground exclusively accommodates tent camping within its 11 sites. It is not suitable for RVs or trailers due to narrow access roads and the absence of hookups.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints North Lake with its own dramatic brush. Summer arrives with warm days perfect for hiking, though early-season visitors should pack bug spray for the mosquito welcoming committee that buzzes through spring and early summer. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise when golden aspens burst into flame against the evergreen canvas. Winter often arrives early at this elevation, sometimes drawing a snowy curtain across the access road and sending the campground into its quiet hibernation.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,500 feet, North Lake Campground exists in that rarefied air where the alpine world begins. Here, the atmosphere holds 25% less oxygen than at sea level, creating a natural sanctuary where your body slows down and your senses sharpen. The thin air brings crystal-clear nights perfect for stargazing and refreshingly cool days even in midsummer. Visitors should plan an extra day to acclimate—your lungs will thank you when you hit those mountain trails.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 9,500 feet, North Lake Campground inhabits a world where Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines stretch skyward like natural cathedral spires, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the mountain air. The North Fork of Bishop Creek provides a constant mountain melody as it dances over granite boulders, while the surrounding peaks create an amphitheater of stone and sky. Spring brings carpets of wildflowers—purple lupine, sunny mule's ears, and delicate shooting stars—while autumn sets the landscape ablaze with quaking aspens that shimmer like golden coins against the cobalt sky.
Geological RegionNorth Lake Campground sits in the heart of the Eastern Sierra's dramatic landscape, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a masterpiece in granite and pine. Here in the Inyo National Forest's high-altitude wonderland, Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines have claimed their territory among glacier-carved valleys and weathered peaks. The North Fork of Bishop Creek, fed by snowmelt and mountain springs, has spent millennia carving its path through this alpine terrain, creating the perfect backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are not available, and accessibility reviews are limited.
Sites SizeThe campsites are small, with three walk-in sites offering slightly more privacy among the trees.
Sites PrivacyGrass and wildflowers add color but provide minimal privacy. Walk-in tent sites are considered the most private.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, consider the walk-in tent sites tucked into the trees. Mosquito repellent is essential during spring and early summer.
Best CampsitesSites close to the creek, such as #9, are favored for their proximity to the water and ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 days
Groups
Group camping is not supported at North Lake Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe sites are arranged in a single loop, with 3 being walk-in only. Some sites are close together, while others offer slightly more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to September 21 in 2025.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; the campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 11 sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyFollow the instructions on the bulletin board at the campground. America The Beautiful Passes provide discounts for eligible users.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
North Lake Campground is frequented by anglers, hikers, and nature lovers. The campground's proximity to Piute Pass and Lamarck trails is a significant draw.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to Piute Pass Trail (4.5 miles) and Lamarck Trail (1.5 miles), both of which connect to a network of trails in the John Muir Wilderness.Fishing
Fishing at North Lake is popular, with opportunities to catch Rainbow, Brown, Brook, and Alpers trout.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, with frequent sightings of deer and occasional encounters with mountain lions. Bear activity is common, requiring strict adherence to food security guidelines.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is closed during the winter months.Water Sports
Water sports are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, though fire pits must be used, and firewood is available for purchase from the nearby Lake Sabrina host.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is an active bear region; food storage guidelines must be followed. Mosquitoes are common in spring and early summer. One user reported encountering a mountain lion in a meadow nearby.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 0.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
White Mountain Public Lands Information Center Address: 798 N Main St, Bishop, CA 93514. Phone: (760) 873-2500.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 21 in 2025.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all trash as there are no dedicated trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresNext to North Fork Bishop Creek and 0.5 miles from North Lake.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention sites being too close together and experiencing dense mosquito populations during certain seasons.
HostThe camp host at nearby Lake Sabrina is often mentioned as helpful and friendly, providing firewood and useful advice.
Campground Map
37.2272, -118.6273 is the general location near North Fork Bishop Creek, California.
Driving directionsFrom Bishop, CA, head west on State Route 168 for approximately 18 miles. Turn right onto North Lake Road and proceed up the hill for about 2 miles. Follow signs to the campground, which is about 0.5 miles past North Lake.
The road to the campground includes steep, narrow, and winding sections with alternating gravel and paved surfaces for the last 2.1 miles. Trailers and RVs are prohibited due to the challenging terrain.Nearby places
Bishop (approximately 18 miles), Mammoth Lakes (approximately 55 miles).
Nearby supplies
Cardinal Village Resort offers limited groceries, fishing supplies, internet access, and a cafe serving breakfast and lunch, located nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.2
9 reviews
North Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for North Lake Campground are mixed, highlighting its scenic beauty and tranquility but also pointing out challenges like mosquitoes and limited privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the quiet environment due to the tent-only policy, scenic views, proximity to hiking trails and fishing spots, and the presence of bear boxes for food security.
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
Concerns raised by users include dense mosquito populations during spring and early summer, cramped campsites with minimal privacy, and aggressive signage by concessionaires.
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring mosquito repellents and bug spray during warmer months. Arriving early is recommended as sites are first-come, first-served. Be cautious on the narrow, winding access...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Mosquitoes are prevalent in spring and early summer, but they dissipate by late summer and fall due to cooler temperatures. Fall camping is particularly noted for its vibrant Aspen colors.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
Loretta St Martin states, 'I love being next to the creek; it’s very calming to me. Bugs are gone this time of year due to the temps at 9,500 ft.'; Werner Schueller mentions, 'Dark and dingy,...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #9 is highlighted for its location by the river, but campers noted that the river noise might be disruptive for some. Walk-in sites are preferred for privacy.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited, with no features specifically catering to individuals with disabilities.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times in the campground.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025