Big Bend Campground

Star4.92
28 reviews
1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Quick Facts

7,800 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open from late May t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Inyo National Forest site

Official Website
Get Directions
Big Bend Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Single campsites cost $30 per night. Additional vehicles are charged $10 per night. America The Beautiful Access/Senior Passes provide a 50% discount...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
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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USFS
Provider
(760) 647-3044
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What Campers Say

4.92

Top-Rated

Based on 28 reviews

21 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sceneryclean

"Overall, campers describe the campground as a 'hidden gem,' emphasizing its quiet, forested setting and proximity to Lee Vining Creek. The campground's cleanliness, ease of access, and scenic beauty are frequently praised."

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Campground Map

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Big Bend Campground

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Driving directionsFrom Lee Vining, CA, take US Rt. 395 south 0.3 miles to Tioga Pass sign. Turn right onto State Rt. 120 west and go 3.5 miles to Poole Power Plant Rd sign. Turn left after sign and then immediately right. Go 2.5 miles up the valley to campground on left. NOTE: Last 0.6 miles is on a single-lane gravel road with turnouts.
The road access includes a single-lane gravel road with turnouts for the last 0.6 miles. It is not ideal for large or mid-size RVs or trailers due to turns and the narrow lane. Seasonal closures may apply.
Nearby places
Lee Vining, CA (Approx. 6 miles, 10 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
Tioga Pass Resort offers limited groceries, fishing supplies, and dining options approximately 6 miles away from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Big Bend Campground

Experience the dramatic dance of Sierra seasons at Big Bend, where nature's moods shift from winter's crystalline embrace to summer's warm golden days. Snow blankets the campground during certain weeks, transforming it into a winter wonderland with freezing temperatures that demand proper preparation. Summer rewards patient visitors with moderate temperatures and pristine blue skies perfect for hiking and exploration. Spring and fall paint the landscape in transitional hues, occasionally dusting the forest floor with surprise snowfall that adds magic to shoulder-season camping.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open in summer; warm days and creek flow. Weekends can be busy, weekdays quieter.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 5% in CA

Fall offers a stunning display of golden aspen leaves; highly praised in seasonal notes.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Open starting late May; spring brings rushing creek and lush scenery but limited window.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Snow blankets the campground; site is closed in winter (late Oct–late May).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Late May through late October, with specific dates depending on conditions.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from late May to late October.

About Big Bend Campground

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.
Big Bend Campground caters to tent camping and small vehicles such as cars and RVs up to 30 feet. It does not offer RV-specific facilities like hookups.
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Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
No official check-in time provided.
Check-out
No official check-out time provided.
Stay Limit
14 day limit.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Big Bend Campground can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing in Lee Vining Creek, wildlife viewing, and access to scenic locations like Yosemite National Park and Mono Basin Scenic Area. The setting is ideal for relaxation in a quiet forested environment.
HikingWhile there are no hiking trails directly within the campground, the proximity to Yosemite National Park provides access to numerous trails.
FishingFishing is allowed in Lee Vining Creek, which is known for Rainbow trout.
Wildlife viewingCampers can observe local wildlife, as the area is rich in forested ecosystems.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsActive bear area; improper food storage may result in a fine of at least $150. Narrow gravel roads might pose challenges for large vehicles.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food containers are provided at each site, with dimensions of 48" x 30" x 36".

Weather at Big Bend Campground

Reviews

4.9
28 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Big Bend Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, campers describe the campground as a 'hidden gem,' emphasizing its quiet, forested setting and proximity to Lee Vining Creek. The campground's cleanliness, ease of access, and scenic beauty are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 28 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the tranquility, beautiful scenery, and clean facilities. Many describe it as a hidden gem surrounded by nature, with the bonus of being close to Yosemite.
Based on 28 reviews

Common Concerns

Limited privacy due to minimal middlestory vegetation and lack of cell phone reception are the most common concerns. Some reviews also note the narrow, dirt road leading to the campground as a...
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Based on 28 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early to secure a spot, especially during weekends. They also advise bringing cash for payment and taking advantage of the bear lockers provided.
Based on 28 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring brings the sound of rushing water in the creek, while fall offers a stunning display of golden aspen leaves. Summer weekends can be busy, but weekdays are quieter.
Based on 28 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Surrounded by big trees, the river is never far by... the tranquility may be well worth it." (Phil Anderson) "Bathrooms clean. Potable water. No showers. First come first serve." (Gabriel R) "Big...
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Based on 28 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #29 was highlighted as being next to a stream and small waterfall. Users describe it as one of the best spots.
Based on 28 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 28 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet owners confirm that dogs are allowed but must be leashed. No additional pet-related amenities are mentioned.
Based on 28 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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