Upper Sage Flat

Star4.57
192 reviews
INYO, CA, USA
Scenic Views

Quick Facts

8,500 ft

Price

$29/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Open May 15 - Octobe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Upper Sage Flat site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026
Upper Sage Flat
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees are $29 per night for standard nonelectric sites during peak season. Reservation fees are additional ($8 online or $9 via contact center).
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 192 reviews

23 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomshiking

"User reviews for Upper Sage Flat are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the campground's cleanliness, beautiful natural setting by the creek, and attentive camp hosts. Negative comments primarily concern occasional site-specific issues like smells or proximity to vault toilets."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

INYO, CA, USA

Upper Sage Flat

INYO, CA, USA

Nearby places
Big Pine (9 miles, ~15 minutes drive)
Bishop (~30 miles, ~45 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping essentials are in Big Pine (~9 miles away). Fuel is also available there.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Sage Flat

The Eastern Sierra's dynamic climate creates a tapestry of seasonal experiences at Upper Sage Flat. Spring brings wildflower blooms and snowmelt-fed creeks, while summer offers warm days perfect for hiking and cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. Fall transforms the landscape with golden aspens and crisp mountain air. Each season brings its own character and charm, though visitors should prepare for mountain weather's quick changes and afternoon thunderstorms during peak summer months.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
5.0 / 5

Peak season is May 15–Oct 21; summer is most popular with many positive reviews.

Planning Tips

  • Peak Season: May 15 - October 21. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 15 - October 21

About Upper Sage Flat

Nestled alongside the crystal-clear waters of Big Pine Creek, Upper Sage Flat Campground serves as your gateway to the majestic Eastern Sierra Nevada wilderness. This peaceful retreat in Inyo National Forest combines the convenience of modern amenities—including paved parking aprons, sturdy picnic tables, and established fire rings—with unparalleled access to adventure. Whether you're casting a line into the rushing creek waters, setting off on the renowned Big Pine Trailhead for a day of exploration, or simply relaxing beneath the stars, this campground offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada experience.
Upper Sage Flat Campground caters to a range of camping setups, including tent sites and RV sites. The emphasis is on traditional camping experiences alongside the creek.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.

Need help booking Upper Sage Flat?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.


Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Upper Sage Flat offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and camping. The proximity to Big Pine Creek and the trailheads for the John Muir Wilderness make it a favorite for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
Fishing
Swimming
Wildlife viewing
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsReported encounter bears, immediate trails head proximity.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Upper Sage Flat

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

From Booking Sources
4.6
192 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Upper Sage Flat is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Upper Sage Flat are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the campground's cleanliness, beautiful natural setting by the creek, and attentive camp hosts. Negative comments primarily concern occasional site-specific issues like smells or proximity to vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 192 reviews

What Campers Love

Campground cleanliness, serene ambiance, proximity to hiking trails, and helpful camp hosts are frequently praised. Direct quotes include: 'Cleanest restrooms at any campsite I have been to,' and...
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Based on 192 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative aspects include smells near certain campsites (e.g., Site 19), limited site size (e.g., Site 3), and the lack of cell service. A user noted, 'The land by the water smells like...
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Based on 192 reviews
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Last updated March 8, 2026
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Upper Sage Flat