Upper Pine Grove Campground
02 reviewsRock Creek Rd, Inyo National Forest, CA
Upper Pine Grove Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
Single campsite reservations cost $35 per night. Additional vehicles incur a fee of $10 per night. America the Beautiful Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single-site fees occupied by the pass holder only.
About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of towering Jeffrey Pines, Upper Pine Grove Campground offers an intimate mountain retreat with just 8 secluded campsites. This hidden gem sits alongside the crystal-clear waters of Rock Creek, where the gentle murmur of flowing water creates a natural soundtrack for your alpine adventure. Several sites feature level, pine-needle-carpeted grounds that welcome campers of all abilities, while the proximity to Rock Creek Lake promises endless opportunities for exploration and reflection.
The campground accommodates various types of camping, including tent and RV camping, at its 9 campsites. Sites are first come, first served.
Historical SignificanceWhile the written history of Upper Pine Grove may be brief, these ancient pines have stood sentinel over Rock Creek for centuries, bearing silent witness to the passage of native peoples, early explorers, and generations of mountain enthusiasts drawn to this pristine wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Upper Pine Grove into a cool mountain sanctuary, with crisp mornings starting around 35°F before warming to pleasant 70°F afternoons—perfect for escaping the valley heat below. As autumn arrives, the campground becomes a front-row seat to nature's grand finale, though early snow may dust the pines. Winter blankets the area in deep snow, creating a wonderland accessible only to the most adventurous souls. Spring visitors should come prepared for lingering snowpack and the dramatic daily temperature swings that define life at altitude.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,400 feet above sea level, Upper Pine Grove inhabits the rarified air of the true high country. This lofty elevation delivers refreshingly cool temperatures even on the warmest summer days, though visitors should allow time to acclimate to the thin mountain air. The altitude creates a unique alpine environment where wildflowers bloom later, stars shine brighter, and every breath connects you more deeply to the mountain landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Jeffrey Pines create a living cathedral above the campground, their vanilla-scented bark and graceful branches framing views of the surrounding peaks. The melodic voice of Rock Creek provides constant companionship, while well-worn trails beckon adventurers toward the sapphire waters of Rock Creek Lake. This pristine alpine forest setting offers photographers endless compositions of dappled sunlight, granite peaks, and the interplay of water, stone, and ancient trees.
Geological RegionUpper Pine Grove rests within the magnificent Inyo National Forest, where the dramatic geology of the Eastern Sierra creates a landscape of stunning contrasts. Here, ancient Jeffrey Pines sink their roots into decomposed granite soils, while Rock Creek has carved its course through glacially sculpted terrain. The surrounding peaks and alpine lakes tell the story of powerful geological forces—from volcanic activity to glacial carving—that have shaped this spectacular high-altitude ecosystem over millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCertain campsites are flat to accommodate easier access.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate trailers, 5th wheels, or RVs up to 24 feet, based on one user review.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels of the sites are not explicitly described. Reviews do not mention seclusion or clustering.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with flat terrain may be ideal for campers seeking accessibility, as noted in authoritative sources.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers or locations are not highlighted.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Unspecified.
Check-out
Unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests per site is unspecified.
Groups
Group camping sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 8 individual sites arranged amidst tall pine trees. Some sites are flat and accessible.
Open and Closed SeasonOperating season is May 16 - October 5, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may be available through federal sites such as recreation.gov or similar platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served according to user reviews despite mentions of reservable sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies depend on the reservation platform used and may incur fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Upper Pine Grove Campground offers access to nearby outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Rock Creek and the trail to Rock Creek Lake enhances the outdoor experience.
Hiking
Nearby trails lead to Rock Creek and Rock Creek Lake, offering opportunities for exploration. Specific trail lengths and difficulty levels are not detailed in the source.Wildlife viewing
The area is an active bear region. A user review mentions a bear encountered at a campsite, emphasizing the importance of securing food. Other wildlife species are not specified.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not relevant to this campground due to its operating season (May 16 - October 5).Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports opportunities are not addressed in the sources.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are provided, but their condition is noted to be worn. Campfires are subject to local regulations.
- Quiet hours are between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear area necessitates strict food storage and campsite cleanliness. Driveway conditions may include steep inclines and potholes.
Active alertsClosed pending installation of a new restroom facility.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Bishop, including a hospital and police station. White Mountain Public Lands Information Center serves as a resource for information.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 5, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear boxes (48" x 30" x 36") are provided and must be used to secure food. No additional information about trash or recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresRock Creek flows nearby, and trails lead to Rock Creek Lake, located approximately a mile away.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include driveway challenges (steep and potholes) and worn fire rings, as noted in user reviews.
HostA user review mentions Albert as running a clean and quiet campground, suggesting a host presence.
Campground Map
Rock Creek Rd, Inyo National Forest, CA
Driving directionsFrom Bishop take US Hwy 395 north to Tom's Place. Or, from Mammoth Lakes go south on 395 to Tom's Place. Turn west on Rock Creek Lake Rd and go approximately 8 miles to the campground on the left.
The driveway into the campground may be steep, rutted, and contain potholes, potentially posing challenges for vehicles. Roads leading to the campground are accessible and paved.Nearby places
Bishop (approx. 35 miles), Mammoth Lakes (approx. 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping equipment can be found in Bishop or Mammoth Lakes. Rock Creek Lodge nearby may offer limited camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Upper Pine Grove Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the campground for its cleanliness and quiet atmosphere. The proximity to Rock Creek and Rock Creek Lake is a highlight, though concerns over steep driveway access and active bear activity were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean pit toilets, well-maintained campsites with enough space for RVs up to 24 feet, and a peaceful environment. 'Very clean and quiet. Albert runs a great camp!'
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
The steep driveway into the campground may be difficult to navigate, and the area is prone to bear activity. A user mentioned, 'Beware the steeper driveway into the campground; passable but may be...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to secure food in bear boxes at all times and to be cautious of the steep driveway. The campground is suitable for smaller RVs and trailers due to space constraints.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is operational only in the summer season (May 16 - October 5), with no user reviews explicitly mentioning seasonal differences.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Pit toilets were clean. Water spigot with threaded nozzle in the middle of the campground near toilets.' 2. 'Very clean and quiet. Albert runs a great camp!' 3. 'Beware the bears. Baby bear...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are limited, but users noted that 'many of the campsites are well-groomed with plenty of space for a 24-foot trailer, 5th, or RV.'
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some sites are flat for easier access, though no additional ADA-compliant features are mentioned.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed in all developed recreation areas.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025