Intake 2 Campground
4.5617 reviewsIntake 2 Campground, near State Route 168 west of Bishop, California
Intake 2 Campground
$24.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for a single site is $34 per night. Additional vehicles cost $10 per night. America The Beautiful Access/Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount on campsite fees. Reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the rushing waters of Bishop Creek, Intake 2 Campground offers an intimate mountain escape divided into two distinct experiences. The Upper section winds through a single loop perfect for small RVs and trailers, while the coveted Walk-in sites bring you steps from the creek's melodic flow. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters or setting off on nearby trails, this high-country haven serves as your gateway to Eastern Sierra adventures.
Intake II offers tent camping and walk-in sites, suitable for small vehicles and moderately rustic camping experiences. There are no RV sites, cabins, or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceAs part of the storied Inyo National Forest, Intake 2 Campground continues a legacy of outdoor recreation that has drawn anglers and nature enthusiasts for generations. This corner of the Eastern Sierra has long been celebrated as prime fishing territory, where time-honored traditions of fly fishing and family camping trips create memories passed down through the years.
Weather and SeasonsAt this elevation, nature paints each season with dramatic flair. Winter blankets the campground in moderate snowfall, creating a hushed wonderland. As spring arrives late but triumphant, wildflowers emerge alongside warming temperatures that stretch through early fall. Summer days bring crisp mountain air and cool nights perfect for campfire gatherings. As one visitor beautifully captured: 'Maple and pine trees surrounding it are beautiful. The air is fresh and cozy' - a testament to the invigorating atmosphere that defines every stay.
ElevationPerched at 8,200 feet above sea level, the campground sits in that sweet spot of mountain elevation where the air feels notably thinner but wonderfully pure. This high-altitude setting means cooler temperatures year-round and the need to pace yourself while your body adjusts. The elevation rewards visitors with spectacular vistas and that distinctive mountain atmosphere where every breath feels like a gift from the peaks above.
Natural Features and SceneryA living postcard unfolds around every campsite, where towering pines mingle with vibrant maples to create a natural cathedral. Bishop Creek serves as the campground's liquid heartbeat, its waters tumbling over granite boulders and creating peaceful pools perfect for contemplation or angling. Just beyond, a pristine alpine lake mirrors the surrounding peaks, adding another layer of beauty to this already stunning landscape. The interplay of forest, water, and mountain creates an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow throughout the day.
Geological RegionThe Eastern Sierra Nevada reveals its geological drama at every turn around Intake 2 Campground. At 8,200 feet, you're camping in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and volcanic forces, where Bishop Creek has carved its path through granite bedrock over millennia. This high-elevation paradise sits in one of California's most renowned fishing regions, where the combination of altitude, pristine water sources, and diverse ecosystems creates an angler's dream and a naturalist's classroom rolled into one spectacular setting.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available, but additional accessibility features were not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as moderately large with gravel parking aprons. They are not recommended for large motorhomes or travel trailers.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer good privacy and shade, particularly in the upper section, while others are closer to the creek and more exposed.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLower Intake 2 offers riverside sites ideal for fishing. Upper section provides more shaded and secluded sites.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight Space #2 as accommodating for a 34' RV trailer and being close to Bishop Creek.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
7consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests allowed per site is not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of two areas: Upper Intake 2 (single loop) and Walk-in section near the creek.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground open seasonally from April 23 through October 31.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations allowed; all sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-serve, no reservations allowed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Intake II campground offers a range of outdoor activities, primarily centered around fishing, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Wildlife viewing is implicit given the active bear area, but specific wildlife species were not mentioned. The campground is located near Lake Sabrina and Bishop Creek, enhancing opportunities for fishing and creek-side hiking.
Hiking
Creek-side hiking trails are accessible, including a "beater trail" linking the walk-in section to nearby Big Trees campground. "Great hiking along the creek," stated Roger Fernandez in his review. Stacy Chang noted proximity to hiking trails as well.Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Intake II, particularly for rainbow trout, which are stocked regularly. "Great for camping and fishing," Daniel Soto commented.Wildlife viewing
While specific wildlife species are not mentioned, the campground operates in an active bear area, requiring bear-proof food storage.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned, but weather data suggests conditions suitable for snowshoeing or other winter recreation.Water Sports
Canoeing was mentioned, but other water sports such as sailing or kayaking are not explicitly detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but no specific details provided.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear area; improper food storage may result in fines of $150 or more. Tight loop in Upper section not recommended for large RVs.
Active alertsNo current alerts specified.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
White Mountain Public Lands Information Center: 798 N Main St, Bishop, CA 93514, Phone: (760) 873-2500. Closest hospital: Northern Inyo Hospital in Bishop.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season spans from late spring to early fall (April 23 to October 31).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are provided near restroom buildings, according to user reviews such as Stacy Chang's detailed observations.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Bishop Creek; near a small lake ideal for fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include water problems and lack of flush toilets in recent years; porta-potties have been used in place of flush toilets.
HostNo camp host available in recent years, according to user reviews.
Campground Map
Intake 2 Campground, near State Route 168 west of Bishop, California
Driving directionsFrom Bishop, CA, at intersection of US Route 395 and State Route 168, take Route 168 west for 16.3 miles to the campground entrance on the left.
Road access is paved; campground entrance is located directly off State Route 168, making it easy to reach. However, the upper section of the campground is not recommended for large motorhomes or trailers due to tight turns.Nearby places
Bishop (16 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Bishop (16 miles away), including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.6
17 reviews
Intake 2 Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users appreciate the campground for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic beauty, and excellent fishing opportunities. Many have commented on the cleanliness of the facilities, while some reviews indicate occasional issues with water availability.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean restrooms, scenic surroundings with maple and pine trees, and proximity to hiking trails and fishing spots. "Beautiful in the Fall," said Loretta St Martin. "The air is...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include a lack of potable water and occasional issues with flush toilets being replaced by porta-potties due to water problems.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing potable water due to the lack of availability on-site and practicing bear-safe food storage. "Be prepared for dry camping," noted Roger Fernandez.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall colors add to the campground's appeal, as noted by Jaekwan Lee and Loretta St Martin. Winter conditions may limit accessibility but offer opportunities for snow-based activities.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We caught plenty of trout too," commented Roger Fernandez. "The maple and pine trees surrounding it are beautiful," wrote Jaekwan Lee. "Possessing/storing food so bears/wild animals have access will...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 was specifically mentioned as accommodating a 34' RV trailer, although the campground generally does not recommend large motorhomes.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features were not widely reviewed apart from mentions of wheelchair-friendly toilets.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed, as noted in official documentation. User reviews do not provide additional context on pet policies.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025