Reds Meadow Campground
4.6921 reviewsReds Meadow Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Reds Meadow Campground
$23.00 - $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$28.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$32 per night for single sites. Additional vehicle fee: $10/night. America The Beautiful Access/Senior Passes are honored for a 50% discount on single campsites only occupied by the pass holder. Transportation fee: $7/adult, $4/child (3-15 years), or $20/vehicle.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Inyo National Forest, Reds Meadow Campground offers 52 pristine campsites where adventure meets tranquility. This seasonal mountain retreat serves as your gateway to some of California's most spectacular natural wonders, including the otherworldly Devils Postpile and the cascading beauty of Rainbow Falls. Here, scenic hiking trails wind through ancient forests, inviting you to explore the raw majesty of the Eastern Sierra.
Reds Meadow Campground accommodates tent camping and combined camping options with minimal amenities, providing a rustic experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Group sites and primitive camping options are not explicitly supported.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the historic McCloud Cabin, perched above the old Hot Springs Bathhouse, where Ranger McCloud weathered long Sierra winters in the early 1900s. Though the bathhouse has closed its doors to visitors, the natural hot springs continue to bubble up from deep within the earth, a testament to the volcanic forces that shaped this remarkable landscape and drew early settlers to these remote mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Reds Meadow into a high-altitude paradise, where crystal-clear skies and refreshing mountain air create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Days warm to a comfortable 80°F while nights cool to a crisp 40°F, ideal for campfire gatherings and stargazing. As winter approaches, heavy snowfall blankets the landscape in pristine white, closing the campground but creating a winter wonderland that awaits your return each spring.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,600 feet above sea level, Reds Meadow sits among the clouds in California's high country. This lofty elevation brings cooler temperatures and thinner air that may leave lowlanders catching their breath, but rewards visitors with crisp mountain mornings and spectacular alpine vistas that stretch for miles.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering mixed conifers provides welcome shade throughout the campground, while vibrant wildflowers paint the meadows in seasonal splashes of color. Reds Creek meanders through the southern reaches, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack to your camping experience. This dynamic landscape occasionally reminds visitors of its volcanic origins with minor earth tremors, while the abundant bear population serves as a thrilling reminder that you're truly in the wild.
Geological RegionReds Meadow Campground sits at the heart of the Inyo National Forest's geological wonderland, where ancient volcanic activity has created a landscape of stunning contrasts. Surrounded by majestic mixed conifers and carpeted with seasonal wildflowers, the campground rests alongside the melodic waters of Reds Creek, offering a front-row seat to millions of years of natural history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are not available, limiting accessibility for campers with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe campsite sizes include a mix of standard and small sites. Reviewers mention that some sites like #16 are "just the right size" for families, whereas others may feel cramped: "Campsite was very small," noted one camper.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across the campground. Campers highlight that some sites offer adequate privacy, while others may feel tight and clustered: "When you first arrive, you think it's tight between campers," one reviewer noted.
Total Campsites52 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #16 is favored for family camping, while #38-A/B/C is ideal for backpackers due to its affordability. Reviewers recommend arriving early to secure spots during peak season.
Best CampsitesSite #16 and #25 are highly rated for their size and proximity to key trails. Backpackers favor site #38-A/B/C for its affordability and community atmosphere.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
1night
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limit is not stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutConnected, unnamed loops spread through a shady, mixed conifer forest.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 30 through October 31
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are generally walk-up, but late arrivals risk no spots during summer peak season.
Cancellation Policynull
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Reds Meadow Campground offers a variety of recreational activities suited for outdoor enthusiasts. Notably, it serves as an excellent base for hiking and fishing, with trails leading to iconic attractions like Devils Postpile National Monument and Rainbow Falls. Swimming options are limited to nearby lakes and ponds, and the site is a popular location for wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Sotcher Lake Trail and Devils Postpile Trail are key hiking attractions accessible from the campground. The Sotcher Lake Trail spans 1.5 miles, while the Devils Postpile Trail extends up to 12 miles. Campers recommend accessing these trails during sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds, as shuttles often bring in large groups of visitors during the day.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available, featuring species such as rainbow, brown, brook, and Alpers trout. Historical reviews mention weekly trout stocking during earlier years, although this practice is not cited in recent authoritative sources.Swimming
Swimming is possible in nearby Sotcher Lake. User reviews describe family-friendly ponds and a hot spring area as alternative aquatic options: "There’s kiddy ponds to swim in and a hot tub/spring at the top," shared one camper.Wildlife viewing
Bear sightings are frequent due to the campground’s active bear area. Campers frequently report encounters, emphasizing the importance of adhering to bear safety measures: "We always see bears!" shared one camper.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, as the site is closed during winter months.Water Sports
Swimming and fishing are the primary water-related activities available, with no facilities for power boating or kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted. Firewood is available for a fee.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM through 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is common, and proper food storage is mandatory. Narrow roads with steep drop-offs pose driving challenges.
Active alertsClosed for winter and inaccessible in June due to road construction. Tentative reopening date: July 2, 2025.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.5 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 93546; phone: (760) 924-5500).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to August.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available throughout the campground, aligning with the strict bear safety measures in place. All trash must be stored in these containers to avoid fines and wildlife encounters.
Proximity to water featuresReds Creek runs along the southern edge of the campground. Natural hot springs near the creek provide geothermal-heated water.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention the road's narrowness and safety concerns. Others note closures of key facilities like the bathhouse. Complaints about dust and the tight layout of campsites are frequent.
HostCamp host Cindy is praised across reviews for being helpful, friendly, and maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
Reds Meadow Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Driving directionsTake US 395 to State Highway 203. Head west to and through the town of Mammoth Lakes. At the 2nd traffic light, turn right onto Minaret Road and continue up the mountain past Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge and Minaret Vista Station. Drive 13.4 miles past the Minaret Vista entrance booth where a fee is paid, then turn left at the campground sign.
State Route 203 narrows to a single lane beyond the Minaret Vista entrance booth, with steep and curvy stretches of 2.3 miles before widening to two lanes. The road is paved but challenging for large vehicles.Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes, CA: approximately 6 miles away
Nearby supplies
Reds Meadow Pack Station and Resort offers limited groceries, camping supplies, and horseback riding. Firewood is available for a fee. Mammoth Lakes is the nearest full-service town with additional supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.7
21 reviews
Reds Meadow Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews frequently praise the campground’s cleanliness, proximity to hiking trails, and the dedication of camp hosts. Complaints largely center around the narrow access road, limited privacy, and seasonal closures.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
"Cleanest vault toilets I've seen," "Cindy, the camp host, is fantastic - so helpful and friendly," "Close to Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls for easy hiking access," "Bear-proof lockers are kept...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"Narrow, steep access road is challenging for larger vehicles," "Limited privacy between campsites," "Seasonal closures restrict access," "The bathhouse near the hot spring has been closed...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Access trails during sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds; avoid shuttles during peak hours. Bring extra supplies as the nearest store is a short walk away. Prepare for bear encounters and utilize...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally, from May 30 to October 31. User reviews suggest that late summer provides a lush, green environment with fewer mosquitoes compared to early summer after rains....
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We always get warm showers or baths at night using the hot water from the creek," "Super clean vault toilets; among the best I've ever seen," "Reception-wise, I did get signal at random spots,"...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #16 is praised as 'just the right size' and perfect for families. Campsite #25 is also well-reviewed for its location and accessibility. However, smaller sites have been criticized for...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No wheelchair-friendly toilets or accessible features are available, limiting usability for campers with disabilities.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on-site but must be leashed at all times, as noted in official guidelines. User reviews do not report any specific pet-related issues or amenities.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025