Gull Lake Campground
Gull Lake Campground
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground charges a flat rate of $32 per night for standard non-electric sites during the peak season.
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
Total Campsite Fees$32.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider760-934-5795
About this campground
Tucked away in the breathtaking June Lake area of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Gull Lake Campground offers an intimate escape beneath a canopy of shade trees. This hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for anglers and boaters eager to explore the crystal-clear waters of the surrounding alpine lakes, all while enjoying the privacy and tranquility that only a small, thoughtfully designed campground can offer.
Gull Lake Campground caters mainly to tent campers and small RVs. It is a small, intimate site with 11 campsites, 5 of which are waterfront. Larger RVs are discouraged due to limited maneuverability.
Historical SignificanceGull Lake Campground serves as your gateway to some of California's most treasured landscapes. Just beyond your tent lies the majestic Ansel Adams Wilderness, where the legendary photographer found endless inspiration among granite peaks and pristine lakes. A short drive connects you to the ancient shores of Mono Lake, with its otherworldly tufa towers, and the iconic granite valleys of Yosemite National Park, making this campground an ideal hub for exploring the Sierra's rich natural and cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsThe high-elevation climate brings crisp, invigorating air year-round, with summer emerging as the crown jewel of camping seasons. While winter's touch occasionally dusts the landscape with snow even in warmer months, summer days unfold with gentle warmth and cool mountain breezes. Evening temperatures remind you that you're camping in true mountain country, where starlit nights call for cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags.
ElevationPerched at 7,600 feet above sea level, the campground invites you into the realm of the high Sierra. This elevation brings refreshingly cool temperatures that provide welcome relief from summer heat, though visitors should come prepared for the thin mountain air. Take it easy on your first day, stay hydrated, and let your body adjust to the altitude as you settle into the peaceful rhythm of mountain life.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 7,600 feet, mature aspen groves create a living cathedral of quaking leaves that shimmer gold in autumn and provide cooling shade in summer. Towering peaks reaching 11,000 to 12,000 feet frame every view, their granite faces catching alpenglow at sunrise and sunset. This vibrant ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters—from the curious black bears that remind campers to properly store their food, to graceful mule deer browsing at dawn, and a symphony of mountain birds that provide nature's soundtrack throughout the day.
Geological RegionThe campground sits in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of soaring granite peaks reaching 11,000 to 12,000 feet into the sky. This spectacular mountain range, formed by millions of years of volcanic activity and glacial carving, creates a natural amphitheater of stone that surrounds visitors with some of California's most awe-inspiring alpine scenery.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground's small size and layout may present challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. However, specific ADA-compliant facilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate tents, and RVs or motor homes under 25 feet. Some reviews caution against larger vehicles due to short site pads and a narrow cul-de-sac turnaround.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. Some are clustered close to one another, particularly near the road, while others near the lakefront offer more space.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviewers suggest avoiding sites close to the highway, as they are noisy. Sites 3 and 4 are noted for being more level and suitable for RVs.
Best CampsitesSites 7 and 8 are lakefront and are highly recommended for their proximity to water and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights per visit within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site typically accommodates a single family or group.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a cul-de-sac with eleven sites, five of which are lakefront. The remaining sites are closer to the road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 25 to October 12. Reservations are required during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo longer available; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservation changes can be made ahead of the arrival date with a $10 change fee. Cancellations will also incur a $10 fee and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities abound at Gull Lake Campground. Campers can engage in fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake offers ideal conditions for paddleboarding and kayaking, and designated trails lead to Mammoth Rock and other scenic locations. Nearby June Lake invites rainbow trout anglers, and the Ansel Adams Wilderness is accessible for more adventurous hikers.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity, with trails leading to Mammoth Rock, Sherwin Lakes, and Gaylor Lake. These vary in difficulty, catering to both casual hikers and experienced trekkers.Fishing
Fishing at Gull Lake and nearby June Lake is highly praised, particularly for rainbow trout. Canoe launches at certain campsites enhance fishing convenience.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the clean and refreshing lake water, as noted by users.Biking
Biking opportunities exist, although detailed descriptions of specific bike trails or terrain are unavailable.Boating
Boating is encouraged, with canoe launches available at some campsites. The nearby marina provides free boat ramp access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, black bears, mountain lions, and various bird species are commonly observed in the area.Beach activities
Campers can engage in paddleboarding and beach play. Specific details about beach conditions are limited.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the high-elevation setting may allow for snow-related recreation in off-seasons.Water Sports
Water activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires may be prohibited during dry conditions. Visitors are advised to contact local visitor centers for updates.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards include black bears and mountain lions. Elevation-related risks may also affect some visitors.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
For emergencies, Mammoth Hospital is approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25 to October 12.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are on-site, ensuring campers can responsibly dispose of their waste. Recycling services are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Gull Lake, and five of the sites are directly lakefront.
Common complaintsSome reviews note road noise and challenges with campsite dimensions for RVs. Cleanliness of restrooms and overcrowding in peak season are also recurring concerns.
HostBrian, a long-standing camp host, is frequently praised for being friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake U.S. Highway 395 to its southern junction with Highway 158. Take 158 for 2.3 miles to June Lake, then continue 0.4 mile to the campground sign.
The campground is accessible via paved roads (Highway 395 and Highway 158). There are no reports of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Los Angeles (350 miles, 6 hours), Reno, Nevada (150 miles, 2.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
Grocery and camping supplies are available in the nearby town of June Lake, a short walk from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
61 reviews
Gull Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User opinions of Gull Lake Campground are generally positive, focusing on its scenic beauty, close proximity to water, and peaceful environment. However, some reviews highlight issues such as road noise, uneven site pads, and inadequate restroom maintenance during high traffic periods.
Review Summaries
Based on 61 reviews
What Campers Love
Several users praised the campground's waterfront sites, friendly hosts, and well-maintained grounds. The area's natural beauty was a recurring highlight in reviews.
Based on 61 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include road noise, mosquito presence, and concerns over restroom cleanliness. Additionally, site dimensions were a challenge for some RV travelers.
Based on 61 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests advised booking lakefront sites if possible and ensuring vehicles fit within the specified site dimensions. Carrying mosquito repellent and firewood is recommended.
Based on 61 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer, with its popularity peaking in July. Off-season visits offer more solitude but come with colder weather and potential snow.
Based on 61 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Gull Lake is so beautiful. This campground only has 11 spots so you really get to know your neighbors." - Craig W. "Great campground and we were very fortunate to get a spot lakefront, spot #7." -...
Based on 61 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites on the lakefront (e.g., 7 and 8) are highly desired for their views and water access. Roadside sites tend to have more noise and less privacy.
Based on 61 reviewsAccessibility Features
Specific accessibility-related reviews are unavailable, but the campground's layout and general descriptions suggest limited accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 61 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with a limit of two per site. Reviews do not focus extensively on pet-related features, but no significant complaints are noted.
Based on 61 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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