Camping Near Crowley Lake, Bishop, and Lone Pine: The Ultimate Guide

Discover the Diverse Camping Opportunities of the Owens Valley

From the shores of Crowley Lake to the dramatic peaks surrounding Bishop and the gateway to Mount Whitney near Lone Pine, the Owens Valley offers a wide array of camping experiences. Whether you’re drawn to water recreation, world-class climbing, or exploring the Alabama Hills, this guide will help you find the perfect campsite for your adventure. Typically when we travel to this region we stay on BLM land, but over the years we have visited or traveled by many of the camping destinations in the region, to help create this guide.

Camping Near Crowley Lake

Crowley Lake, a high-desert gem just south of Mammoth Lakes, is a prime camping destination known for its incredible trout fishing, wide-open spaces, and access to some of the Eastern Sierra’s best outdoor recreation. Whether you’re looking for a lakeside campground, a quiet forest retreat, or a dispersed camping adventure, here’s your guide to camping in the Crowley Lake region.

Top Campgrounds Near Crowley Lake

1. Crowley Lake Campground

• Best For: Easy lake access, fishing, and stunning views
• Details: This BLM-managed campground offers basic amenities and a quiet setting near the lake’s shoreline. Ideal for anglers and water sports enthusiasts.

2. Tuff Campground

• Best For: Creekside camping and quick access to both Crowley Lake and Rock Creek
• Details: Set along Rock Creek, this small, shaded campground is great for tent and RV camping. It’s a fantastic base for exploring the nearby mountains.

3. McGee Creek Campground

• Best For: Peaceful camping with access to McGee Creek hiking and fishing
• Details: Nestled in a scenic canyon, this campground offers a quieter, more secluded camping experience. McGee Creek is known for its excellent fishing and hiking trails leading into the Sierra backcountry.

4. French Camp Campground

• Best For: RV and trailer camping with easy access to Highway 395 and Rock Creek
• Details: A well-maintained forest service campground with larger sites, perfect for those with bigger rigs. It’s a great starting point for adventures in Rock Creek Canyon.

5. Brown’s Owens River Campground

• Best For: RV-friendly camping with access to fishing along the Owens River
• Details: This privately-owned campground offers amenities like hookups, showers, and a general store. It’s a top pick for those who want more comfort while still being close to nature.

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Dispersed Camping & Boondocking Near Crowley Lake

For those seeking a more off-the-grid camping experience, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land east of Crowley Lake and along Highway 395 provides excellent dispersed camping options.

Best Spots for Boondocking:

• Benton Crossing Road – Popular with van lifers and RV campers, offering wide-open spaces and scenic views.
• Chalk Bluff Road (Owens River Area) – Great for fishing access and solitude.
• McGee Creek Road (Past the Campground) – Limited spaces but stunning mountain backdrops.

🚨 Boondocking Tips:
✔ Respect Leave No Trace principles.
✔ Pack out all waste—there are no facilities.
✔ Watch for soft sand and rough roads. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.
✔ Fires may be restricted—check local fire regulations before you go.

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Plan Your Crowley Lake Camping Trip

Whether you’re casting a line in Crowley Lake, hiking into the high country, or soaking in the views from your dispersed campsite, this region offers a true Sierra experience. Reserve your developed campsite on Recreation.gov or find a peaceful boondocking spot to enjoy the beauty of the Eastern Sierra.

Bishop Area: Climbing Mecca & Eastern Sierra Access

Camping in the Bishop area offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, whether you prefer developed campgrounds, RV parks, or boondocking under the stars. With its proximity to stunning alpine lakes, excellent fishing spots, and breathtaking Sierra Nevada views, Bishop is a prime camping destination.

• Best for: Rock climbing, bouldering, access to the backcountry, exploring the town of Bishop.
• Pleasant Valley Campground: Located near Bishop, offering access to climbing areas and hiking trails. First-come, first-served.
• Bishop Park: Offers camping and RV sites with convenient access to town and nearby attractions. Reservations recommended.
• Brown’s Town Campground: A smaller, more rustic campground near Bishop. First-come, first-served.

Pro Tip: Early reservations for campsites are highly recommended. Many Bishop area campgrounds sell out, especially during peak travel seasons.

Know Before You Go

• Peak Seasons: Summer and fall are the busiest times; book early.
• Weather: Be prepared for chilly nights, even in summer.
• Fire Restrictions: Check with Inyo National Forest for fire bans.
• Leave No Trace: Respect nature and follow proper camping etiquette.

Gear Up Before You Go!

Need new camping gear? Stop by one of Bishop’s outdoor shops or check out Cabela’s for tents, sleeping bags, camp stoves, and more!

Bishop is an outdoor lover’s paradise with a variety of camping options for every style. Whether you prefer an RV park with full amenities, a cozy resort, or a secluded boondocking spot, the Eastern Sierra has it all. Plan ahead, pack wisely, and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

3. Alabama Hills & Lone Pine: Movie Magic & Mount Whitney

Camping Near Lone Pine, CA

Lone Pine Area Campgrounds

Campground	Season	Agency	Features
Diaz Lake	Year-round	Inyo County	200 sites, fishing, boating, swimming, piped water.
Portuguese Joe	Year-round	Inyo County	Rustic camping, small creek, 15 sites, piped water.
Tuttle Creek	Year-round	BLM	82 sites, no potable water, 4,000 ft elevation.
Lone Pine	May–Oct	USFS	43 sites, 6,000 ft elevation.
Lone Pine Group	May–Oct	USFS	One group site, 6,000 ft elevation.
Whitney Portal	May–Oct	USFS	43 sites, 8,000 ft elevation, 7-day stay limit.
Whitney Portal Group	May–Oct	USFS	Three group sites, 8,100 ft elevation.
Whitney Trailhead	May–Oct	USFS	Walk-in sites, 10 total, 8,300 ft elevation, 1-day stay limit.

For reservations and updates, contact the Mt. Whitney Ranger Station at +1 (760) 876-6200.

Independence & Horseshoe Meadow Area

Campground	Season	Agency	Features
Grays Meadow	May–Oct	USFS	Near Independence Creek.
Onion Valley	June–Sept	USFS	No trailers allowed.
Cottonwood Lake	June–Oct	USFS	Walk-in sites, 10,000 ft elevation.
Cottonwood Pass	May–Oct	USFS	Walk-in sites, 10,000 ft elevation.
Horseshoe Meadow Equestrian	June–Oct	USFS	Equestrian sites, 10,000 ft elevation.

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Boondocking in Alabama Hills

Know Before You Go:

• Camping is free but requires a 14-day stay limit.
• Permits are now required for dispersed camping. Check the BLM website for updates.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring in.
• Camp only in designated areas to reduce impact on the landscape.
• No wood fires allowed; use a propane stove for cooking.
• Be mindful of film crews—Alabama Hills is a popular shooting location.

Best Spots for Boondocking:

• Movie Road Area – Classic views of the Sierra.
• Hogback Road – More secluded, rugged access.
• Tuttle Creek BLM Area – Larger rigs may find this a better option.

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Insider Tip: Fossil Falls Campground

Just south of Olancha, Fossil Falls Campground is an underutilized gem for travelers heading up from Los Angeles. This BLM-managed site offers volcanic landscapes, unique rock formations, and quiet overnight camping for a perfect stop before heading into the Eastern Sierra or Death Valley.

Why Camp Here?

• Scenic Views: Overlook dramatic lava rock formations.
• Easy Access: Located off Highway 395, ideal for road trippers.
• Fewer Crowds: A quiet, lesser-known option compared to Lone Pine.
• Hiking & Exploration: Short trails to explore ancient lava flows.

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Final Tips for Camping in the Eastern Sierra

• Early reservations for developed campgrounds are highly recommended.
• Stock up on supplies in Bishop or Lone Pine before heading to remote sites.
• Respect the land and follow all local camping regulations.

Enjoy your adventure in the Eastern Sierra! Happy camping!

4. Inyo National Forest (Dispersed Camping): Backcountry Adventures

• Best for: Experienced backpackers, remote camping, true wilderness solitude.
• Dispersed camping is allowed in certain areas of the Inyo National Forest. Research regulations and obtain a map from the Inyo National Forest Visitor Center before your trip. Practice Leave No Trace principles.
• Local Tip: Be prepared for challenging terrain and potential hazards when dispersed camping.

Top Hikes & Activities in the Crowley Lake, Bishop, and Lone Pine Area

Top Hikes:

• Mount Whitney Trail: The classic route to the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Permits are required.
• Alabama Hills Scenic Drive: A leisurely drive or hike through the unique rock formations.
• Reward Mine Trail: A moderate hike to an old mine with stunning views.
• Bishop Creek Canyon: Offers numerous hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.

Activities:

• Rock Climbing: Bishop is a world-renowned climbing destination.
• Fishing: Crowley Lake and the Owens River offer excellent fishing opportunities.
• Stargazing: The Owens Valley is known for its dark skies, perfect for stargazing.
• Exploring Film Locations: Discover the many film locations in the Alabama Hills.

Essential Gear for Your Owens Valley Camping Trip

• Camping Must-Haves: (Similar to Mammoth Lakes list, but consider warmer weather gear for lower elevations)
• Hiking Gear: (Similar to Mammoth Lakes list)
• Climbing Gear: If you plan to climb, bring your own gear or rent it in Bishop.
• Fishing Gear: If you plan to fish, bring your own gear and a fishing license.

Key Tips for Camping in the Owens Valley

• Reservations: Some campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season. Book in advance.
• Weather: The Owens Valley can experience extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Be prepared for all types of weather.
• Water: Water sources can be limited, especially in the backcountry. Carry plenty of water or have a reliable water filtration system.
• Sun Protection: The sun is intense in the Owens Valley. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in and minimize your impact on the environment.

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