East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA)
134
Total Campsites
Campground
64
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA)
Overview East Fork Canyon is in a beautiful wooded section of Rock Creek Canyon, near Lower Rock Creek. Anglers, hikers and photographers enjoy this scenic location in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. The facility is large and accommodating, with several loops of campsites.Opening and closing dates for the season are dependent on weather. Recreation Rock Creek and other waterways in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for their exceptional trout fishing. A catch from the creek may include brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout, while anglers in the backcountry are treated to populations of golden trout. The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are an obvious draw for hikers and mountain bikers. There are several trails in and around Rock Creek Canyon, some of which meander around high-elevation alpine lakes. Facilities Rock Creek and other waterways in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for their exceptional trout fishing. A catch from the creek may include brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout, while anglers in the backcountry are treated to populations of golden trout. The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are an obvious draw for hikers and mountain bikers. There are several trails in and around Rock Creek Canyon, some of which meander around high-elevation alpine lakes. Natural Features This beautifully wooded area is dense with pine and fir trees, with aspens that turn golden and shimmer in the fall. Sitting at an elevation of 8,900 ft., East Fork offers views of the taller mountain peaks that surround it. The campground is adjacent to the clear, cold and cascading Rock Creek, which originates in the John Muir Wilderness and runs for 22 miles through the bottom of Rock Creek Canyon. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika and many species of fish and birds. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (760) 935-4012. Nearby Attractions For campers interested in local events, Mule Days are held in nearby Bishop over Memorial Day weekend, and the Mammoth Jazz Jubilee is hosted in Mammoth in mid-July.
- 134 total campsites listed.
- 64 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- Most common site type: management (63).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA) special
Sheltered within the wooded corridor of Rock Creek Canyon in the eastern Sierra Nevada, East Fork Campground in the Inyo National Forest is one of those places that makes you wonder why you ever camp anywhere else. The campground sits near Lower Rock Creek at a comfortable mid-elevation, surrounded by a lush canopy of aspen and Jeffrey pine that filters the sunlight into golden columns on summer mornings. Rock Creek Canyon is legendary among Sierra enthusiasts. The creek itself is a premier trout fishery, stocked regularly and teeming with rainbows and browns, while the surrounding trails lead into the John Muir Wilderness and up toward stunning alpine lakes like Heart Lake and Long Lake. The drive up Rock Creek Road is an attraction in its own right, winding through one of the most scenic canyons in all of California, with granite spires and wildflower meadows unfolding at every turn. The campground offers well-spaced sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Drinking water is available, but there are no hookups. The elevation keeps summer temperatures pleasant, though nights can be chilly, so a warm sleeping bag is essential. The season runs from approximately late May through mid-October, with July and August seeing the heaviest use. Reserving through Recreation.gov is highly recommended for weekend visits. East Fork is an ideal base for anyone drawn to the quieter, wilder side of the Sierra Nevada.
Campsite Inventory
134 sites to choose from
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
44
Reservable
0
Accessible
TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC
20
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
0:00 AM, 2:00 PM
Check-out time
0:00 AM, 11:00 AM
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway length (ft)
18, 20, 23, 25
Driveway surface
Gravel, Paved
FOOD STORAGE LOCKER
Food Storage Locker
Max guests
6
Max vehicle length (ft)
10, 15, 18, 20
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Shade
Full, Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
760-935-4825
Getting There
From Bishop or Mammoth Lakes, California, follow U.S. Highway 395 (about 30 miles north of Bishop). Take the Tom's Place exit and go 6 miles on Rock Creek Road.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA).
How do reservations work for East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA)?
Reservation availability for East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA) can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA)?
East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA) currently lists MANAGEMENT (63), STANDARD NONELECTRIC (46), TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC (25).
Where is East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA) located?
East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (CA) is in California. Coordinates: 37.4836, -118.7175.
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