Willow Campground
04 reviewsnull
Willow Campground
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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
Overnight use fee for single sites is $29/night. Additional vehicle fee is $10/night. America the Beautiful Access/Senior Passes honor a 50% discount on single campsite fees occupied by the pass holder (not applicable to additional fees or other sites). Reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Tucked away beneath a canopy of quaking aspens, Willow Campground offers an intimate escape with just 8 tent-only sites along the melodic South Fork of Bishop Creek. This hidden gem, located 5 miles below South Lake, provides a peaceful retreat where the absence of RVs and trailers preserves the authentic wilderness experience that tent campers cherish.
Willow Campground caters exclusively to tent campers, prohibiting RVs and trailers. The small size and tent-only restriction create a peaceful atmosphere ideal for those seeking a rustic camping experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile the stories of this tranquil spot remain unwritten in official records, generations of campers have created their own history here, finding solitude and connection with the natural world beneath the whispering aspens.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather at Willow brings crisp, invigorating air with temperatures that can dip below freezing during shoulder seasons, reminding visitors of the high Sierra's raw beauty. Pack warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings, and come prepared for nature's full experience – including the occasional mosquito companion during wetter periods.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,000 feet in the majestic Sierra Nevada, Willow Campground places you in the heart of the high country, where the air is thin and pure, and the night sky reveals countless stars unobscured by lower elevation haze.
Natural Features and SceneryA living gallery of golden aspens provides natural shelter while graceful willows line the creek's edge, creating a photographer's paradise. The South Fork of Bishop Creek winds past your tent site, its marble-smooth pools and riffles offering pristine fishing opportunities and a constant, soothing soundtrack to your mountain retreat.
Geological RegionNestled in the dramatic landscape of the Sierra Nevada's South Fork Bishop Creek drainage, this campground showcases the region's signature blend of granite peaks, verdant riparian corridors lined with willows, and groves of shimmering aspens that paint the mountainside gold each autumn.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of eight small units designed for tent camping only.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as quiet and secluded due to the prohibition of RVs and trailers, offering a tranquil experience under aspen trees.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews recommend bringing mosquito protection and a footprint for tents due to damp ground conditions.
Best CampsitesUser reviews do not specify individual campsite numbers as particularly better.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay 7 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No information provided about group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutA small campground with 8 tent-only campsites located along the creek and shaded by aspen trees.
Open and Closed SeasonPlanned operating season for 2025: May 16 - October 7
Reservation PlatformsSites may be reservable, reservation fees apply. Specific platforms are not mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified; mentions sites may be reservable.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not mentioned.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The Willow Campground is well-suited for activities like fishing and enjoying nature. The South Fork of Bishop Creek runs alongside the campground, providing excellent fishing opportunities. Some user reviews indicate the presence of wildlife, such as deer. The tranquil environment under aspen trees enhances passive recreational activities like wildlife viewing.
Fishing
Users frequently praise the fishing opportunities offered by the South Fork of Bishop Creek, which features quiet and marbled sections accessible from each campsite. One review suggests matching the hatch for a successful fishing experience.Wildlife viewing
User reviews mention sightings of deer, and the surrounding aspen trees provide a serene environment for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
No information provided about winter recreation activities.Water Sports
No information provided about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire policies are not mentioned.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, requiring secure food storage practices. Mosquitoes may be prevalent in damp conditions.
Active alertsClosed pending removal of hazard trees.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
White Mountain Public Lands Information Center, Address: 798 N Main St Bishop, CA 93514, Phone: (760) 873-2500, operational Thursday-Sunday 8:30-4:30 (closed 12-1 for lunch). Closed Monday-Wednesdays and federal holidays.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the South Fork of Bishop Creek, offering close proximity to fishing-friendly waters.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as unclean sites and mosquitoes during damp conditions.
HostHost information is not mentioned.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Bishop go west on State Route 168 (Line Street) approximately 15 miles. Turn left on South Lake Road, the campground will be on the left approximately 4 miles past the Four Jeffery Campground.
Accessible via State Route 168 and South Lake Road; road conditions not explicitly stated.Nearby places
Bishop: approximately 15 miles
Nearby supplies
Supplies will likely be available in Bishop, the nearest population center (approximately 15 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Willow Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Willow Campground's peaceful atmosphere and excellent fishing opportunities. Campers appreciate the restriction on RVs and trailers, which ensures tranquility. Some concerns about environmental cleanliness (e.g., leftover trash) and the prevalence of mosquitoes have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive remarks include the quiet environment, proximity to Bishop Creek for fishing, and the scenic location under aspen trees.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
Concerns raised by users include occasional trash left by previous campers and the presence of mosquitoes due to the damp ground.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing mosquito repellent and an additional ground footprint for tents due to the damp conditions.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest summer months are particularly favorable for fishing and enjoying the scenic beauty of the campground. However, mosquitoes are more prevalent during warmer months.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Willow is my favorite campground in the area. As a tent camper, it’s extremely quiet and mellow as this is not a campground for RVs." - Kyle Duncan
2. "Beautiful campground nice fishing and we...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or detailed reviews provided.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific user reviews provided about pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025