Obsidian Campground
4.4311 reviews.
Obsidian Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
The campground charges $12 per night for sites. Primitive camping fees apply and no additional amenities are included.
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover your own mountain sanctuary at Obsidian Campground, where whispering aspens and towering pines create a natural cathedral of tranquility. This hidden gem sits perfectly positioned between the melodic waters of Molybdenite Creek and the pristine Little Walker River, offering primitive camping that takes you back to the essence of outdoor adventure. Cast your line into crystal-clear waters teeming with stocked trout, or lace up your boots and explore the network of trails that wind through this wilderness paradise, including the breathtaking path to Emma Lake that rewards hikers with stunning alpine vistas.
Obsidian Campground is a primitive campground catering primarily to tent campers. RV camping is possible but may be challenging due to unpaved roads and uneven sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape that echoes with the footsteps of history. As part of the magnificent Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Obsidian Campground serves as your gateway to the legendary Hoover Wilderness, where rugged pioneers once searched for fortune and early American settlers carved out a life in these untamed mountains. The surrounding trails tell stories of prospectors who followed streams in search of precious metals, leaving behind a legacy of adventure that modern explorers can still trace through abandoned mine shafts and historic markers scattered throughout the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the Eastern Sierra at Obsidian. Winter wraps the campground in a crystalline blanket, with temperatures dipping below freezing and occasional snowfall creating a wonderland for the hardy cold-weather camper. When summer arrives, the mountain air turns crisp and clear, delivering those perfect bluebird days that camping dreams are made of—warm sunshine filtered through pine boughs, cool evenings around the campfire, and endless starry skies that remind you why you came to the mountains in the first place.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery by adventurous campers, the campground's mountain setting provides that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air feels lighter and every breath connects you more deeply with the wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape painted by nature's finest brushstrokes. The campground nestles within a living gallery where golden aspens dance in the breeze and stately pines stand sentinel over your wilderness retreat. The Little Walker River carves its ancient path nearby, its waters singing the timeless song of the mountains, while Molybdenite Creek whispers secrets to those who pause to listen. This pristine natural sanctuary offers more than just a place to pitch your tent—it provides a front-row seat to the ever-changing theater of mountain life, from dawn's first light filtering through the forest canopy to the alpenglow that paints the peaks at sunset.
Geological RegionDiscover a geological wonderland where the forces of nature have sculpted a masterpiece over millions of years. Obsidian Campground rests within the diverse ecosystem of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, where ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving have created a landscape of remarkable beauty. The convergence of the Little Walker River and Molybdenite Creek has shaped valleys and carved channels through the bedrock, while groves of aspens and pines have claimed the mountainsides, creating a living testament to the enduring partnership between water, stone, and forest that defines this spectacular corner of the American West.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned, and the unpaved roads leading to the campground may pose challenges for some visitors.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally described as located within an aspen grove, and roughly 50% of sites are noted to be not level.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are secluded and spaced far apart amidst groves of trees, offering significant privacy even during peak times.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and shade, select sites located deeper within the aspen groves.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are not mentioned as 'best,' but reviews indicate that campsites tucked into groves of trees offer seclusion.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
The stay limit for the campground has not been provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Aspecific guest limit per site is not provided.
Groups
Details about group sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread throughout groves of trees providing seclusion and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonGenerally open from late May to mid-October, depending on weather and conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; the campground is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are on a first-come, first-served basis as reservations are not accepted.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available for this campground. As such, there are no cancellation policies in place.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Obsidian Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Molybdenite Creek and Little Walker River provide opportunities for trout fishing, while trails lead to picturesque locations such as Emma Lake and the Hoover Wilderness.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound with trails leading into the Hoover Wilderness and around Wheeler Creek. The Emma Lake trail offers a short but steep hike to scenic views and the lake itself.Fishing
The Little Walker River, which runs near the campground, is stocked with trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities.Wildlife viewing
The secluded and natural setting of the campground offers opportunities for observing local wildlife, although specific species are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though the area may experience snow given its elevation and climate.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted unless restricted due to fire hazards.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsRoads may be difficult to navigate following storms, and the area may experience late-season snow. Wildlife such as bears may pose a hazard.
Active alertsAs of June 2023, storms have washed away parts of the campground and damaged bathrooms. Access is currently limited to the first few sites for high-clearance vehicles.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesLate May to mid-October marks the peak season for this campground.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are not available on-site. Campers must pack out all their trash, as stated in user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Molybdenite Creek and Little Walker River, which is stocked with trout.
Common complaintsReviews mention issues like non-functioning water systems, lack of trash services, and unlevel campsites.
HostHosts are not mentioned; the campground operates on a self-service basis.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Highway 395 south in Bridgeport, drive approximately 16 miles to Little Walker Road. Turn left on Little Walker Road (Forest Service Road # 066). Go approximately three miles on that unpaved road to campground sign.
Access to the campground involves turning onto Little Walker Road, a Forest Service Road (#066). This road is unpaved and may require a high-clearance vehicle especially during periods of inclement weather or after storm damage.Nearby places
Bridgeport: approximately 16 miles, 30 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Bridgeport serves as the nearest supply center offering fuel, groceries, and camping supplies approximately 16 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Obsidian Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Obsidian Campground frequently highlight its seclusion, natural beauty, and excellent access to hiking and fishing. However, they also mention the lack of potable water, uneven campsites, and occasionally poor maintenance of facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground for its tranquility and seclusion. The nearby hiking trails and stocked trout in Little Walker River receive consistent mentions. The natural setting, with aspen groves...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, absence of trash dumpsters, and uneven terrain at some campsites. Additionally, maintenance issues such as non-operational bathrooms and unlevel...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing their own water and packing out trash. A 4WD vehicle is advised due to the unpaved access road. Visitors also suggest exploring the Emma Lake trail for its scenic views and...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is generally open from late May to mid-October, with its popularity peaking during camping and hunting seasons. Reviews indicate that storm damage can impact accessibility and...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great little campground. Almost hate sharing this place because it's never crowded and absolutely beautiful." - Steven Alltizer. "June 2023, lots has been washed away from the storms. Campground is...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user noted that about 50% of the sites are not level, making some spots less desirable. Another mentioned that sites are well-separated and private.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility appears limited due to the unpaved roads and uneven campsites. No specific accommodations for individuals with disabilities are mentioned.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not specifically mentioned in reviews, leaving their policy unclear.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025