How much does camping cost at Convict Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Convict Lake Campground range from $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Convict Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Convict Lake Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Convict Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Convict Lake Campground has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Convict Lake Campground?

Convict Lake Campground is open April 24 to October 23. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Convict Lake Campground?

Yes, Convict Lake Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Convict Lake Campground have?

Convict Lake Campground has 88 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Convict Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Convict Lake Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Convict Lake Campground?

Convict Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed, Camp Store, Laundry. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Convict Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Convict Lake Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Convict Lake Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Convict Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Convict Lake Campground: Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.61

820 reviews

HCR 79, BOX 54, CROWLEY LAKE, CA 93546, USA

Top 2% in CAFall

Scenic ViewsFishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping#1 Swimming Camping California Mountain Camping California +3 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,500 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

88 campsites

Season

Open season is April...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,500 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

88 campsites

Season

Open season is April...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

Convict Lake Campground

$35.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $35.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $35.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

760-924-5771

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Convict Lake Campground

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Campground Map

HCR 79, BOX 54, CROWLEY LAKE, CA 93546, USA

Convict Lake Campground

HCR 79, BOX 54, CROWLEY LAKE, CA 93546, USA

Nearby places

Bishop (34 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Mammoth Lakes (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Crowley Lake (null)

Weather at Convict Lake Campground

Current alerts(12)

Be bear aware; keep all food out of site in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating; always keep a clean camp and do not feed any wild animals
Convict Lake is a no-wake lake
Day use parking is adjacent to the campground
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

Best Time to Camp at Convict Lake Campground

Best season: fall. Fall delivers the best combination of weather, colors and lower crowds — aspens and cottonwoods turn brilliant gold from late September into October while daytime highs are comfortably cool (about 50–65°F) and nights frequently dip into the 25–40°F range. Hiking, shoreline fishing for trout and late-season boating are at their peak with far fewer summer visitors, and the mirror-like lake reflections and crisp mountain light make photography spectacular. Because the campground closes Oct 25, plan Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 2% in CA

Late Sept–mid-Oct peak aspen colors, mild days and praised by reviews as best time before closure.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 24 to October 23. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season is April 25th - October 25th annually. Closed outside of these dates.

About Convict Lake Campground

Convict Lake Campground sits at high elevation in Inyo National Forest near Crowley Lake, operated by Recreation Resource Management with tent sites, RV hookups, group areas, and cabins. The alpine setting offers direct access to Convict Lake for fishing, boating, and swimming, plus trailheads for hiking and climbing in the surrounding Sierra Nevada. Fall brings golden aspens, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds, making it a favorite season for anglers and wildlife watchers.

Convict Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including standard, tent-only sites and group camping areas. It is suitable for both RV and tent camping, offering options for casual campers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers the best combination of weather, colors and lower crowds — aspens and cottonwoods turn brilliant gold from late September into October while daytime highs are comfortably cool (about 50–65°F) and nights frequently dip into the 25–40°F range. Hiking, shoreline fishing for trout and late-season boating are at their peak with far fewer summer visitors, and the mirror-like lake reflections and crisp mountain light make photography spectacular. Because the campground closes Oct 25, plan Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation7500 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a glacial bowl carved by ancient ice flows, with towering granite walls rising above the mirror-like surface of Convict Lake. Convict Creek runs through the campground, carrying snowmelt from the high country. Aspens and cottonwoods dominate the valley floor, turning brilliant gold in late September and early October. Mule deer graze the meadows regularly, and black bears pass through at dawn. Some sites lack natural shade. Afternoon winds sweep through the canyon with enough force that campers mention them in reviews.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe nearby Convict Lake Resort offers additional accommodations such as cabins and a restaurant, which serves as an option for those who prefer not to camp. The restaurant has received positive mentions for its food quality.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates 1 RV with a tow vehicle or one vehicle per tent site, plus an extra vehicle for an additional fee.

Groups

Group sites are available, accommodating larger parties. Specific details on maximum occupancy or vehicle limits are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessible occupant messages and bear lockers are provided. Some sites have varying levels of accessibility due to uneven terrain, and this should be considered when booking.

Site SizeSites range in size, with several accommodating large tents and RVs. Specific site reviews indicate some areas are spacious, while others are smaller and more compact.

PrivacyVaried privacy levels depending on the site. Some sites are described as 'secluded' and 'private,' while others are noted for being 'closer together.

Total Campsites88 campsites

Recommended SitesFor better shade and views, choose sites closer to the creek or with lake views.

Best CampsitesSites #6 and #57 get consistent mentions for views and privacy. Creekside sites are popular but book early. Sites near the entrance offer more space, while interior loops place campers closer together.

Need help booking Convict Lake Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Convict Lake Campground offers a variety of amenities designed to enhance the camping experience, including flush toilets, potable water, hot showers, and a dump station. Food storage lockers are provided to ensure safety from wildlife, including the bears known to frequent the area. Firewood is available for purchase on-site. Several reviews highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms, described as 'meticulously clean,' 'sparkling clean,' and 'very well maintained.' The campground is located close to the Convict Lake Resort, which offers additional facilities such as a store, restaurant, and showers (available for a fee). Laundry facilities are also available at the resort.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Convict Lake Campground offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Convict Lake and surrounding trails makes it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake's clear waters and the dramatic mountain backdrop enhance the outdoor experience.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredAll sites are equipped with bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure visitor safety.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are conveniently located throughout the campground. Several dumpsters and recycling bins are available to encourage waste minimization.

Cell CoverageMixed reviews on cell phone reception. One reviewer mentioned having 'good cell phone signal,' while others reported 'very limited or no service,' depending on the carrier.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

820 reviews

Top-Rated

Convict Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Convict Lake Campground receives highly positive reviews overall, with standout mentions for cleanliness, scenic beauty, and convenience. The lake, hiking trails, and well-maintained facilities make it a favorite destination for campers of all ages.

Review Summaries

Based on 820 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 820 reviews.

Site #6Loved
Site #6 is mentioned for its convenient location near restrooms and recycling bins.
Site #32Issues noted
Site #32 received criticism for having a problematic fire ring placement.

What Campers Love

Clean restrooms, scenic views of Convict Lake, ample wildlife sightings, and friendly camp hosts are commonly praised. The proximity to the resort for additional amenities is also noted as a...

Based on 820 reviews

Common Concerns

Some campers noted limited shade at certain sites, noise from the resort during events, and high winds in the afternoons. A few reviewers also mentioned the occasional overcrowding of fishing spots...

Based on 820 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing shade structures due to limited natural cover and making reservations early for the best sites near the lake. Be prepared for afternoon winds and potentially limited cell...

Based on 820 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are particularly praised for mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer can be hot with high winds. Winter activities are limited due to the campground closure but are still...

Based on 820 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The bathrooms were nice and clean. Real toilets and mirrors are always nice.' - Doug Rosson. 'The campground loops around at the end and was a beautiful walk.' - Preston Treadwell. 'The lake and...

Based on 820 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground is generally accessible, though uneven terrain at some sites may pose challenges. Camp hosts are noted for being very helpful to all campers.

Based on 820 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but specific guidelines include keeping them leashed. Some reviewers found the abundance of wildlife and thorny vegetation challenging for pets.

Based on 820 reviews

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Go if

You want scenic lakeside camping with showers, a camp store, and access to fishing, boating, and fall foliage.

Skip if

You need shaded sites or prefer quieter settings away from resort activity noise.

Nearby Campgrounds

McGee Creek sits in the high-elevation alpine zone of Inyo National Forest near Mammoth Lakes, operated by Recreation Resource Management. This small campground offers tent and RV sites with flush toilets and potable water, serving as a base for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding Sierra backcountry. Camp hosts maintain spotless facilities, and fall brings peak aspen color with fewer crowds.