34
Total Campsites
Campground
22
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About TUFF CAMPGROUND
Overview Tuff Campground is situated along Rock Creek in the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. It is convenient to Tom's Place and U.S. Highway 395. At an elevation of 7,000 ft., it is lower than many of the region's campgrounds and thus frequently one of the first campgrounds to open in the spring. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing and viewing the area's volcanic rock formations. Opening and closing dates for the season are dependent on weather. The campground usually opens the last weekend in April to coincide with the first day of fishing in the Sierras. Recreation Rock Creek and nearby Rock Creek Lake and Crawley Lake are hot spots for trout fishing. A catch from the creek may including brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout. The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are an obvious draw for hikers and mountain bikers. Facilities Rock Creek and nearby Rock Creek Lake and Crawley Lake are hot spots for trout fishing. A catch from the creek may including brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout. The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are an obvious draw for hikers and mountain bikers. Natural Features This campground is named for the Tuff rock formations that lie in and around it. Most campsites are situated in an open sagebrush landscape, with aspens, cottonwood and Jeffrey pine trees surrounding the area. The clear, cold and cascading Rock Creek runs alongside the campsites, offering a relaxing sound for campers. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martin, pika and many species of fish and birds. 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.
- 34 total campsites listed.
- 22 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (34).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes TUFF CAMPGROUND special
Tuff Campground is strung along the banks of Rock Creek in California's Eastern Sierra, offering 34 sites in one of the most accessible and scenic canyon settings in the region. Located near the small community of Tom's Place, the campground sits at the mouth of Rock Creek Canyon, where granite peaks rise sharply above a creek that tumbles with snowmelt well into summer. The setting is classic Sierra Nevada: tall pines, clean air, and skies that blaze with stars after dark. Rock Creek Road climbs from here toward the high country, providing access to a chain of alpine lakes, the Little Lakes Valley, and trailheads leading into the John Muir Wilderness. Hikers, backpackers, and fly fishers all use Tuff as a convenient base camp. Rock Creek itself runs right through the campground, and the sound of moving water is a constant companion. Tom's Place, just minutes away, offers a general store and cafe for supplies and hearty meals. The camping season typically runs from late April through October, with the sweet spot falling in July and August when trails at higher elevations are finally snow-free. Weekends fill fast throughout summer, so securing a reservation early is a smart move. Fall brings spectacular golden aspens to the canyon, making September and early October a particularly beautiful time to visit.
Campsite Inventory
34 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
22
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
11:00 AM
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway surface
Gravel
FOOD STORAGE LOCKER
Food Storage Locker
Max guests
6
Max vehicle length (ft)
25, 30, 35, 40
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Shade
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
760-935-4026
Getting There
From Mammoth Lakes or Bishop, California: Take U.S. Highway 395 to the Owens Gorge Road exit at Tom's Place (25 miles north of Bishop and 13 miles south of Mammoth Lakes). Drive 200 yards east to the gravel road and continue north a short distance to the campground along Rock Creek. Follow signs.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to TUFF CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for TUFF CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for TUFF CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at TUFF CAMPGROUND?
TUFF CAMPGROUND currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (34).
Where is TUFF CAMPGROUND located?
TUFF CAMPGROUND is in California. Coordinates: 37.5625, -118.6642.
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