How much does camping cost at Independence Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Independence Creek Campground range from $14/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Independence Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Independence Creek 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.

What is the best time to visit Independence Creek Campground?

Independence Creek Campground is open No specific peak season dates provided.. 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 Independence Creek Campground?

Independence Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at Independence Creek Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Independence Creek 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 Independence Creek Campground?

Independence Creek Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Independence Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Independence Creek Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Independence Creek Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Independence Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Independence Creek Campground: Fire restrictions are noted in user reviews during peak summer periods. Fire rings and BBQ stands are available at each site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.16

55 reviews

1360 N. Main St., BISHOP, California, 93514, United States

Featured in:Fishing Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,022 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Independence Creek Campground Direct Line Official Website

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,022 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Independence Creek Campground Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Independence Creek Campground

$14.00 - $14.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Reported fee for overnight camping is $14. Fee structure includes access to vault toilets, picnic tables, and potable water.

Standard Site Fee$14.00

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Provider

7608735577

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1360 N. Main St., BISHOP, California, 93514, United States

Independence Creek Campground

1360 N. Main St., BISHOP, California, 93514, United States

Nearby places

Independence (0.5 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Bishop (40 miles, approximately 45 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies can be found in the town of Independence, within a half-mile distance, including convenience stores and Oak Creek Dispensary.

Weather at Independence Creek Campground

Current alert: Fire restrictions may be in effect during warmer months. Seasonal variations in creek flow are noted.

Best Time to Camp at Independence Creek Campground

Fall brings the most reliable conditions, with dry, stable days in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and nights often in the 30s to 40s°F. The campground sees fewer visitors than midsummer, and fire restrictions are typically more settled by then. Summer temperatures can soar, making shaded sites especially valuable. The creek can run dry by late September. Weekdays are quieter than weekends across all seasons.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall cited as most reliable for good weather and foliage, with fewer visitors.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No specific peak season dates provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground appears to operate year-round, but seasonal variations such as stream flow and fire restrictions may impact usability.

About Independence Creek Campground

Independence Creek Campground sits along its namesake creek at 4,022 feet in the Owens Valley, minutes from the town of Independence. The creek runs through the campground, and the Sierra Nevada rises to the west. Sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 24 feet. Fees run $14 per night.

This is a small campground with a mix of primitive sites for tents and larger sites that can accommodate RVs up to 24 feet. There are no designated group sites, cabins, or glamping options mentioned.

Historical Significance

Manzanar National Historic Site sits a short drive from the campground. The preserved internment camp imprisoned 10,000 Japanese Americans during World War II, and the site now tells that story through its structures and exhibits.

Weather and SeasonsFall brings the most reliable conditions, with dry, stable days in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and nights often in the 30s to 40s°F. The campground sees fewer visitors than midsummer, and fire restrictions are typically more settled by then. Summer temperatures can soar, making shaded sites especially valuable. The creek can run dry by late September. Weekdays are quieter than weekends across all seasons.

ElevationCradled within the dramatic Owens Valley, Independence Creek Campground occupies a scenic position that showcases the region's remarkable topography. This valley location provides the perfect vantage point for appreciating the dramatic elevation changes that define the Eastern Sierra, from the valley floor to the soaring peaks above. The campground's position offers comfortable camping while maintaining easy access to higher elevation adventures.

Natural Features and SceneryIndependence Creek provides the campground's main natural feature, flowing with clean alpine water that visitors describe as pleasant to fall asleep to. Trees line the creek and act as windbreaks, though not all sites have shade. The tent side offers direct views of the Sierra Nevada, while the surrounding landscape reflects the high desert character of the Owens Valley. The contrast between the riparian corridor along the creek and the open valley creates varied camping experiences depending on site placement.

Geological RegionIndependence Creek Campground offers front-row seats to one of California's most dramatic geological showcases—the Owens Valley. Flanked by the imposing Eastern Sierra Nevada range, this deep valley tells a story written in stone and fault lines. The campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring this geological wonderland, where ancient granite peaks soar above the valley floor and high-altitude trails lead adventurous souls into alpine realms. The Eastern Sierra's distinctive landscape, carved by millennia of tectonic forces and glacial artistry, provides endless opportunities for discovery and photography, making every view from the campground a window into Earth's dynamic history.

Scenic ViewsSeveral user reviews highlight the 'beautiful view of the mountains,' particularly from the north side and tent areas.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo mention of hotel-style lodges, cabins, or similar accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned for this campground.

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Stay Limit

No explicit restrictions mentioned.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No specific information available on guest limits.

Groups

No group sites are specified for this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are described as large and positioned along the creek, with picnic tables and fire rings. Shade varies significantly, with trees concentrated near the water but not covering all sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are likely managed via local systems, as indicated by some reviews mentioning a reservation system.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability information not explicitly stated, but reviews suggest varying occupancy levels depending on weekdays versus weekends.

Cancellation PolicyNo specific information provided regarding cancellation policies.

Site SizeThe campground is described as having 'large camp sites' by user John Kang, with some suitable for tents and others for RVs up to 24 feet, as per Hans Mulders' review.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some shade provided by trees but not all sites having shade. Lester Walters mentioned that 'trees along the river act as a windbreak,' but 'not all sites have shade.' Silvia Fernstrom noted that the tent side has 'a view of the mountains.

Recommended SitesReferencing reviews, campers seeking quieter spots with shade may prefer north-side sites. Sites closer to the creek offer more soothing sounds but may also face mosquito issues.

Best CampsitesReviewers recommend the tent side for mountain views. Sites close to the creek offer the sound of running water at night. Specific site numbers aren't mentioned in reviews, but larger sites can handle RVs up to 24 feet.

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Amenities available

The Independence Creek Campground offers basic amenities tailored for both tent and RV campers. It features vault toilets and potable water, as well as picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Water is available at about half of the sites. A dumpster and a kiosk are onsite for convenience, and the campground provides access to Independence Creek, which runs through the area. Firewood is not mentioned as available for purchase on-site. Reviewers frequently mentioned the vault toilets, with mixed sentiments: some found them clean, while others noted significant odor issues.

Potable water

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping. Independence Creek is stocked with trout, making it ideal for anglers. Hiking trails and biking paths in the area offer varied levels of exploration, while nearby Onion Valley gives access to high Sierra lakes and major trails like the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails. There is no dedicated swimming area, but the creek provides a soothing backdrop.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Biking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are noted as prevalent in the area, and broken glass scattered throughout some sites has been mentioned in reviews.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground.

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).

Fire PolicyFire restrictions are noted in user reviews during peak summer periods. Fire rings and BBQ stands are available at each site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned in the provided data.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Independence Volunteer Fire Department and medical facilities in Bishop, approximately 40 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingThere is a dumpster onsite for trash disposal. No mention of recycling facilities or pickup schedules was provided.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located directly on Independence Creek, offering soothing water sounds and fishing opportunities.

Camp HostNo on-site host is available, but staff reportedly visit daily to check on facilities.

Cell CoverageNo information on cell phone service is provided in the source materials or user reviews.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.2

55 reviews

Satisfactory

Independence Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is frequently described as quiet, pleasant, and conveniently located close to the town of Independence. Many appreciate the creek running through the campground and the views of the Sierra Nevada. However, some reviewers highlight issues such as broken glass, minimal shade, and the unpleasant odor from vault toilets.

Review Summaries

Based on 55 reviews

What Campers Love

The creek is a highlight for many visitors, described as 'very pleasant to listen to as you fall asleep' (Samuel McHaddad) and 'clean clear alpine water' (Joe Traveler). Visitors also commend the...

Based on 55 reviews

Common Concerns

Several reviewers mention the odor from the vault toilets, with Joe Traveler describing them as 'the worst (odor-wise).' Another frequent issue is the lack of shade at some sites. Spirit Baker noted,...

Based on 55 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The tent side offers better mountain views (Silvia Fernstrom). Some sites have picnic tables and fire rings, but not all have access to water.

Based on 55 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend camping on the tent side for better mountain views (Silvia Fernstrom). Staying during the week is quieter, as weekends can get busier (Lester Walters).

Based on 55 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that the campground is more crowded during weekends. The stream may not always have water flowing, as noted by Matt in a September review. Fall seems to offer beautiful foliage, as...

Based on 55 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Beautiful, quiet little spot. Creek runs right through and is very pleasant to listen to as you fall asleep at night.' - Samuel McHaddad - 'Vault toilets. Dumpsters and there is water at half of...

Based on 55 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific mentions of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 55 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on a leash. 'Dogs okay on a leash,' according to Lester Walters.

Based on 55 reviews

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Go if

Trout anglers and hikers headed to Onion Valley for the John Muir or Pacific Crest Trails will get the most out of this spot. Book the tent side for mountain views, and a weekday stay keeps it quiet. Supplies are a half-mile away in Independence.

Skip if

The vault toilet smell genuinely bothers reviewers, shaded sites are scarce, and broken glass has been reported across multiple sites. RVs over 24 feet won't fit, and summer heat with minimal shade makes this a rough season for anyone without a creekside spot.

Nearby Campgrounds

Independence, CA, USA

Grays Meadows sits in mid-elevation forest near Independence, operated by Recreation Resource Management as a seasonal campground in Inyo National Forest. The campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites alongside a flowing creek with views toward the Sierra. Visitors use it as a base for hiking into the John Muir Wilderness and fishing nearby waters.