Pine Grove Campground
4.226 reviews798 N Main St Bishop, CA 93514
Pine Grove Campground
$23.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
Single site fee is $35 per night. Additional vehicle fee is $10 per night. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Passes are accepted for half-priced camping at single sites only, provided the pass holder occupies the site physically.
About this campground
Nestled beneath the stunning Rock Creek Lake, Pine Grove Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 10 secluded sites. This hidden gem beckons tent campers seeking tranquility and authentic wilderness experiences. Each site comes equipped with picnic tables, access to fresh potable water, and secure bear-proof food containers for peace of mind. The campground's distinctive character shines through its natural landscape—massive granite boulders punctuate the terrain, creating cozy nooks between closely-knit sites that foster a sense of community while maintaining privacy through nature's own design.
Pine Grove Campground primarily caters to tent campers and small RVs. The campground is noted for its peaceful setting and small size.
Historical SignificancePine Grove Campground sits at the doorstep of the legendary John Muir Wilderness, a testament to America's conservation legacy. Here, campers walk in the footsteps of the great naturalist himself, experiencing the same awe-inspiring landscapes that sparked a nationwide movement to preserve our wild places. This proximity to such hallowed ground transforms every stay into a connection with conservation history, where modern adventurers can reflect on the enduring importance of protecting these pristine environments for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsPine Grove's high-altitude location creates a dramatic canvas of seasonal change. Summer arrives as a gentle reprieve, painting days with comfortable temperatures between 47°F and 70°F—perfect for morning hikes and evening campfires. As autumn fades, winter transforms the campground into a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plummet to a bracing 21°F and fresh powder can accumulate up to 8 inches in a single week. This seasonal metamorphosis offers adventurous souls the chance to experience the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada in all its moods.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,300 feet above sea level, Pine Grove Campground offers a true high-alpine adventure. This lofty elevation delivers crisp, pure mountain air and star-filled skies that seem close enough to touch. Visitors should embrace the altitude by staying hydrated and taking time to acclimate—the thin air adds an element of challenge that makes every accomplishment, from setting up camp to completing a trail, feel that much more rewarding. The elevation ensures refreshingly cool nights even in summer, making it an ideal retreat from valley heat.
Natural Features and SceneryPine Grove unfolds as a single, intimate loop alongside the melodious Rock Creek, where crystal-clear waters sing their ancient song through a landscape of towering granite monuments and dense alpine forest. The campground's unique setting among massive boulders creates a natural amphitheater of stone and pine, offering both shelter and spectacular photo opportunities. Gateway trails lead directly from camp into breathtaking alpine terrain, while glimpses of Rock Creek Lake sparkle through the trees, promising endless exploration. This convergence of water, stone, and forest creates a sensory feast that captures the essence of Sierra Nevada beauty.
Geological RegionDeep within the majestic Inyo National Forest, Pine Grove Campground showcases the geological wonders of the Eastern Sierra at 9,300 feet. This remarkable alpine sanctuary tells a story written in stone—ancient granite formations rise like natural sculptures, shaped by millennia of wind, water, and ice. Dense coniferous forests weave between these rocky sentinels, creating a living tapestry that changes with every season. As a gateway to the John Muir Wilderness and companion to Rock Creek Lake, the campground offers front-row seats to one of California's most spectacular geological theaters, where the forces that built these mountains continue their patient work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information is provided about specific accessibility features or accommodations for disabled campers.
Sites SizeSites are described as small and close together.
Sites PrivacyLacks privacy between campsites; sites are small and clustered.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Site #5 if seeking privacy as it is narrow. Sites near the creek offer better views and ambiance.
Best CampsitesSites close to Rock Creek are highly recommended due to proximity to water and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time mentioned.
Check-out
No specific check-out time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight people max per site.
Groups
No information about group camping sites is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSmall single loop layout with 10 sites. Sites are close together and surrounded by large rocks.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 16 to October 5, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations not possible. Sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 10 sites are first-come, first-serve. Sites may fill quickly during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyRules for cancellations are not specified in the authoritative material.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Pine Grove Campground include hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Campers can explore the nearby Rock Creek Trail, which offers access to the John Muir Wilderness, and enjoy fishing opportunities in Rock Creek, known for its Rainbow, Brook, Brown, and Alpers trout population.
Hiking
The Rock Creek Trail, an 8-mile trail accessible for both foot and horse traffic, provides access to the John Muir Wilderness and other trails. It is a popular hiking spot, and one trail is located directly next to the campground.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with Rainbow, Brook, Brown, and Alpers (hybrid) trout available in Rock Creek.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently mention bear sightings around the campground, emphasizing that this is an active bear area. Additionally, other wildlife viewing opportunities are available in the area.Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not supported at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must be contained within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear area. Visitors must use bear-proof food containers. Bring mosquito repellent as mosquitoes are common during peak season. High elevations may affect some campers.
Active alertsCurrently no alerts, but campers should check seasonal road conditions and bear activity.
Weather forecast
50
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.9 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), nearest hospital available in Bishop.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 through October 15.
Trash and recyclingInformation on trash and recycling facilities is not provided. Campers are encouraged to keep a clean camp and practice proper food storage techniques to deter bears.
Proximity to water featuresLocated below Rock Creek Lake and less than 100 feet from Rock Creek. No swimming or boating facilities available.
Common complaintsReviews mention lack of privacy between campsites, presence of bears in the area, and mixed experiences with camp hosts.
HostMixed reviews about the camp host, Albert. Some visitors appreciated his knowledge and strict rule enforcement, while others described negative interactions. "He advised us on which sites were better and let us know the bear situation."
Campground Map
798 N Main St Bishop, CA 93514
Driving directionsFrom Mammoth Lakes, CA, take State Rt. 203 east 0.9 miles to US Rt. 395. Bear right onto Rt. 395 (south) to Bishop and go 15.2 miles to Tom's Place sign. Turn right after sign onto Rock Creek Rd and go 7.7 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
Road access quality is suitable for smaller vehicles. No RVs over 15 feet are allowed. Roads include paved sections along Hwy 395 and Rock Creek Rd. Visitors should be cautious of high elevation driving and possible seasonal road maintenance.Nearby places
Bishop (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes), Mammoth Lakes (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Rock Creek Lodge offers limited groceries and firewood, but reservations are required for their dining room. Mammoth Lakes and Bishop have larger grocery stores and camping supplies within a 20-mile radius.
Camper Reviews
4.2
6 reviews
Pine Grove Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Pine Grove Campground's quiet and clean environment, proximity to Rock Creek's roaring waters, and the abundance of hiking and fishing opportunities. However, reviews of the camp host vary significantly, with some finding him knowledgeable and friendly while others describe him as overly strict or rude.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the campground's peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and proximity to hiking trails and fishing. Bears, while requiring careful food storage, are often mentioned as a unique...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A recurring complaint among campers concerns the camp host, with some describing him as rude or overly strict. One user mentioned that site #5 is 'super narrow' and lacks privacy. Additionally, the...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing mosquito repellent, as bugs can be an issue. Campers also suggest following the posted rules to avoid conflicts with the camp host. One review notes that campers should be...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground receives glowing reviews for its summer season, with campers praising the warm weather and abundant outdoor activities. However, the high elevation can lead to colder nights even...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'We were lucky enough to find a spot close to the river which was amazing!' (Brandi Little)
- 'Been camping here 3 times and have had a GR8 experience every time.' (Jon Munsell)
- 'We got lucky and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is noted as being 'super narrow' and not ideal for privacy. One camper mentioned that some spots are close to the creek and provide an excellent experience listening to the water all night.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews mention accessibility features or experiences for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed in all developed recreation areas. No additional user reviews specific to pet policies were provided.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025