Aerie Crag Picnic Area

Star0
4 reviews
Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center, 1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA 93541

Quick Facts

7,200 ft

Price

$15 - $23/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open mid-April throu...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Inyo National Forest site

Official Website
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Aerie Crag Picnic Area
$15.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Overnight RV use at $23 per night; America the Beautiful Senior/Access Passes are honored. Reservation fees may apply.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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

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Provider
760-647-3044
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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 4 reviews

17 Google reviews

Most mentioned

lake

"User reviews generally regard the campground as a practical option for overflow RV camping, although it is not considered remote or scenic. The availability of Rush Creek for fishing is frequently highlighted as a positive feature."

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Campground Map

Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center, 1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA 93541

Aerie Crag Picnic Area

Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center, 1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA 93541

Driving directionsFrom June Lake, CA, take State Rt. 158 west 5.9 miles to RV Campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.
Roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible from CA State Route 158.
Nearby places
June Lake - approximately 5.9 miles, Lee Vining - approximately 20 miles.
Nearby supplies
Nearest potable water available at Silver Lake Campground and Boat Launch or Rush Creek Trailhead. RV waste stations located at Mobil gas station in June Lake (fee applies) and Fern Creek Lodge (free).

Best Time to Camp at Aerie Crag Picnic Area

Experience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the high Sierra at Aerie Crag. Winter and shoulder seasons bring crisp mountain air and frequent snowfall, with temperatures often dipping below 40°F—perfect for those who love the stark beauty of a snow-dusted landscape. As summer arrives, the campground transforms into a sun-drenched haven where temperatures climb toward 80°F under brilliantly clear skies. The region's low humidity means comfortable conditions for outdoor adventures, whether you're exploring frost-kissed mornings or basking in warm afternoon sunshine.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open in summer; fishing popular and pleasant high-elevation conditions.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open through Oct 31; crisp shoulder-season air and possible early snow affect late-season use.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens mid‑April; early spring can be cold and snowy but fishing is available once open.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed mid‑April to Oct 31; frequent snowfall and freezing temps in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open mid-April through October 31; closed in the off-season.

About Aerie Crag Picnic Area

Perched on a sweeping sagebrush plateau along the banks of Rush Creek, Aerie Crag RV Campground welcomes travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the Eastern Sierra. This former picnic area has been transformed into an exclusive RV camping destination, offering spacious sites on level terrain without the constraints of hookups. The campground's wild setting means you'll be sharing the landscape with local wildlife, including black bears who call this region home. Visitors must store all food and scented items properly—violations of bear safety regulations carry fines starting at $150, a small price for protecting both campers and wildlife.
The campground is exclusively for RV camping, serving as an overflow site when other local campgrounds are full. It does not accommodate tents or group camping and lacks specialized facilities for cabins or glamping.
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 3 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Flush toilets
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities are focused on fishing, particularly for rainbow trout in Rush Creek, which offers convenient access for anglers. The campground does not support swimming, hiking, biking, or boating activities.
FishingFishing opportunities are available in Rush Creek, which is accessible from the campground. Anglers report catching rainbow trout.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is a significant concern; fines apply for improper food storage. Lack of potable water may require additional planning.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Aerie Crag Picnic Area

Reviews

0.0
4 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Aerie Crag Picnic Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally regard the campground as a practical option for overflow RV camping, although it is not considered remote or scenic. The availability of Rush Creek for fishing is frequently highlighted as a positive feature.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews

What Campers Love

"Close to conveniences of the stores along June Lake Loop," "Great place to access Rush Creek for fishing," "Beautiful canyon and area to camp."
Based on 4 reviews

Common Concerns

"No hook-ups," "Does not have shaded canopies of trees," "1 of 2 bathroom buildings was locked up."
Based on 4 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to practice safe food storage techniques due to the presence of bears. Payment must be made via cash or check, and water sources are available at nearby locations such as Silver...
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Based on 4 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground operates seasonally from mid-April to October 31, with fishing being the most popular activity during this period. During the colder weeks, snow and freezing temperatures may limit...
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Based on 4 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great views from the spots," "Off Road Camping. Great location next to stream. Great Dark Skies."
Based on 4 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific commentary on sites notes that seven out of fifteen have picnic tables. Site-specific reviews on accessibility and privacy are not provided.
Based on 4 reviews

Accessibility Features

No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times in the developed recreation site.
Based on 4 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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