Leavitt Meadows Campground
4.6419 reviewsLeavitt Meadows Campground, Highway 108 near Sonora Junction, Toiyabe National Forest, California
Leavitt Meadows Campground
$20.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
$20 per night for single unit; additional $6 per night for extra vehicle. Day use fee is $6. Some reviews suggest discrepancies in fee updates.
About this campground
Escape to Leavitt Meadows Campground, where the gentle whisper of Jeffrey Pines mingles with the melodic rush of the West Walker River. This tranquil mountain sanctuary cradles visitors in a natural amphitheater of aspens and juniper trees, while serving as your personal gateway to the untamed beauty of the Hoover Wilderness. Here, morning light filters through the canopy as hikers set off on adventures, and evenings bring the peaceful symphony of rustling leaves and flowing water.
Leavitt Meadows Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, with 16 total sites that are suitable for tents and small RVs (less than 24 feet).
Historical SignificanceLeavitt Meadows has long served as a cherished portal to adventure, with the historic Leavitt Meadows Trailhead beckoning generations of wilderness enthusiasts into the Hoover Wilderness. This protected landscape harbors pristine alpine lakes that mirror the sky and rugged peaks like the formidable Tower Peak, which challenges even seasoned mountaineers. The area represents a preserved slice of the Sierra Nevada's wild heart, where nature's rhythms continue undisturbed.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here tells its own story throughout the year. Summer days invite exploration with pleasantly mild temperatures, though wise campers know to pack warm layers for the crisp mountain nights that remind you you're sleeping at elevation. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, while spring and fall offer their own dramatic displays of changing weather. The occasional mountain breeze can pick up, adding its voice to the natural chorus and keeping the air fresh and invigorating.
ElevationPerched at 7,300 feet where the air grows crisp and pure, Leavitt Meadows offers that authentic high-country experience. At this elevation, you'll breathe deeply of pine-scented mountain air, though newcomers should take it easy their first day as bodies adjust to the thinner atmosphere. The altitude gifts visitors with cooler temperatures, brilliant star-filled nights, and that invigorating mountain feeling that makes every sunrise worth witnessing.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has painted a masterpiece at Leavitt Meadows, where towering Jeffrey Pines stand sentinel over your campsite and aromatic junipers perfume the air. Groves of quaking aspens create natural privacy screens between sites, their leaves dancing in the breeze and painting the landscape gold each autumn. The star of the show remains the West Walker River, whose crystal-clear waters provide both a stunning backdrop and nature's own soundtrack as it tumbles over smooth granite stones on its journey through the meadow.
Geological RegionNestled within the expansive Toiyabe National Forest at the doorstep of the Hoover Wilderness, Leavitt Meadows occupies a special pocket of the Eastern Sierra. This geological wonderland showcases the region's signature Jeffrey Pine forests thriving in decomposed granite soils, while hardy junipers cling to rockier outcrops. The West Walker River has carved its course through this mountain terrain over millennia, creating the gentle meadow environment where aspens now flourish along its banks, offering campers a front-row seat to the Sierra's geological story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available, but no additional accessibility details were provided.
Sites SizeSites are relatively small. Larger trailers over 24 feet may face challenges due to compact site sizes and road layout.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some sites are overgrown and private, while others lack shade or proximity to the river.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 12 is noted for its convenience to the trailhead.
Best CampsitesCampsites near the river are highly recommended for their scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours.
Check-out
Open 24 hours.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 days.
Groups
No designated group sites are mentioned in the source.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout above the West Walker River. Sites are shaded by aspens and other trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late May through late September, weather permitting.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Some reviews mention possible future availability for reservations.
Cancellation PolicyNot specified.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Leavitt Meadows Campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and opportunities for peaceful relaxation by the West Walker River.
Hiking
The nearby Leavitt Meadows Trailhead provides access to the 13-mile West Walker Trail and the 2-mile Secret Lake Trail. These trails lead to scenic lake basins and the Hoover Wilderness. Some users noted that the trails can be busy and narrow at times.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include rainbow and brook trout in the West Walker River. User reviews praised the fishing quality.Wildlife viewing
The campground's location near the Hoover Wilderness offers opportunities for wildlife observation. However, no specific species were mentioned.Winter Activities
The campground is not open during winter months, so no winter activities are applicable.Water Sports
Water sports are not supported at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- A free California Camp Fire Permit is required. Firewood is available for purchase.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; safe food storage practices are mandatory. Some reviews mention rocky trails and faded trail signs affecting navigation.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain
Precipitation: 2%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (2.00% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain
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
Bridgeport Ranger District, 75694 US-395 HC 62, Bridgeport, CA 93517, Phone: 760-932-7070
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details on trash and recycling facilities were mentioned in the available data.
Proximity to water featuresThe West Walker River runs alongside the campground, offering opportunities for fishing and splashing in larger pools.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews mention lack of water due to flushing the water system and outdated trail signs. The campground's proximity to the road leads to some noise complaints.
HostCamp host is noted for maintaining exceptionally clean restrooms and providing helpful service.
Campground Map
Leavitt Meadows Campground, Highway 108 near Sonora Junction, Toiyabe National Forest, California
Driving directionsFrom Highway 395 south in Bridgeport, drive approximately 17 miles to Highway 108 at Sonora Junction. Turn left on Highway 108 and go approximately six miles. The campground is on the left-hand side of the highway.
The parking aprons and interior road are dirt. RVs should note that Highway 108 has a 26% grade and is not suitable as a through way to the west side of Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. However, access to this campground is manageable.Nearby places
Bridgeport (17 miles, ~20 minutes), Walker (12.8 miles, ~15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Bridgeport (~17 miles away) offers groceries, fuel, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.6
19 reviews
Leavitt Meadows Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Leavitt Meadows Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, peaceful setting, and proximity to trails and the West Walker River. However, some concerns were noted about the lack of water at times and road accessibility.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Host kept the place spotless.'
- 'Beautiful scenery and quiet.'
- 'Campground is REALLY well maintained.'
- 'The cleanest outhouses I've ever seen!'
Based on 19 reviewsCommon Concerns
- 'There is no drinking water here' (reported during a specific visit).
- 'Road through the campground was absolutely awful.'
- 'Some campsites are too close to the road and noisy.'
- 'Trails are...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Campers should bring cash for payments as no card facilities are mentioned.
- Be prepared for narrow trails and possible traffic during peak times.
- If fishing, try for rainbow and brook trout in...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open from late May through late September, with most visitors praising the summer months for hiking and enjoying the river. Late July and August were noted to be busier, with...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Host kept the place spotless.'
- 'Vaulted restrooms, beautiful scenery, and quiet.'
- 'Sonora Pass is a must motorcycle route! Great twists, turns, inclines, and declines.'
Based on 19 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
- Site #12 is located near the trailhead and is convenient for hikers.
- Sites along the river are highly praised for their views.
- Some sites lack shade, and privacy may vary.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
No in-depth reviews on accessibility are available, but the site does offer wheelchair-friendly vault toilets.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs must be on a leash, and no specific pet-related issues were noted in the reviews.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025