Big Meadow Campground

Star4.00
19 reviews
From Bishop, go north on Hwy 395 approximately 23 miles to Toms Place. Turn west on Rock Creek Road for 5 miles. Big Meadow Campground is 1/2 mile past Iris Meadow Campground on the right.
Fishing

Quick Facts

8,600 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Operating season is ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Inyo National Forest site

Official Website
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Big Meadow Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Single site fee is $35 per night. Additional vehicles are $10 per night. America the Beautiful Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount...
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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

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USFS
Provider
(760) 873-2500
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What Campers Say

4.00

Satisfactory

Based on 19 reviews

15 Google reviews

Most mentioned

shadewell-maintainedsites

"User reviews praise the campground for its cleanliness, peaceful setting along Rock Creek, and good fishing opportunities. However, some express dissatisfaction with the high campsite fees given the minimal amenities provided."

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Campground Map

From Bishop, go north on Hwy 395 approximately 23 miles to Toms Place. Turn west on Rock Creek Road for 5 miles. Big Meadow Campground is 1/2 mile past Iris Meadow Campground on the right.

Big Meadow Campground

From Bishop, go north on Hwy 395 approximately 23 miles to Toms Place. Turn west on Rock Creek Road for 5 miles. Big Meadow Campground is 1/2 mile past Iris Meadow Campground on the right.

Driving directionsFrom Bishop, go north on Hwy 395 approximately 23 miles (or south from Mammoth Lakes 10 miles) to Toms Place. Turn west onto Rock Creek Road and continue for approximately 5 miles. The campground is located 1/2 mile past Iris Meadow Campground on the right.
Access is via paved roads, but parking is limited. Road conditions are good, though early season snow or late-season weather could create challenges.
Nearby places
Bishop: 23 miles, approximately 30 minutes. Mammoth Lakes: 10 miles, approximately 15 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and basic camping supplies are available at Tom's Place, located about 5 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Big Meadow Campground

Mountain weather at Big Meadow brings crisp, star-filled nights that give way to sun-dappled days perfect for exploration. Even in summer, you'll want to pack layers as temperatures can dip near freezing after sunset, reminding you that you're truly in the high country. Early and late season campers should come prepared for surprise snowfalls that can dust the landscape in white, transforming the campground into a winter wonderland overnight.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Popular in summer for fishing and shaded sites; mosquitoes a common nuisance.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open into October; aspens and crisp mountain conditions likely attractive for fall.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 9; late spring can be chilly but wildflowers emerge.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; season runs May 9–Oct 12.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Operating season is from May 9 to October 12, 2025, weather-dependent.

About Big Meadow Campground

Tucked away along the babbling waters of Rock Creek, Big Meadow Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Inyo National Forest. With just 11 campsites, this hidden gem promises a serene retreat where the only sounds you'll hear are the gentle rush of the creek and the whisper of wind through towering pines. Anglers will find themselves in paradise with Rock Creek's renowned trout fishing just steps away, while those seeking solitude will appreciate the campground's peaceful atmosphere. Though the sites are relatively close together, the reward is a front-row seat to some of the Eastern Sierra's most breathtaking alpine scenery.
Big Meadow Campground provides 11 combined campsites suitable for tent camping only. The absence of RV, group, cabin, and glamping accommodations makes this a minimalistic camping option.
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Big Meadow Campground can enjoy fishing in Rock Creek, surrounded by scenic views of pines, aspens, and wildflowers. The lack of designated trails suggests limited recreational opportunities beyond fishing and general relaxation. It's a tranquil spot ideal for those seeking a quiet getaway.
FishingFishing opportunities are abundant, with rainbow, brown, brook, and Alpers trout commonly found in Rock Creek.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThis is an active bear area. Food must be properly stored in bear boxes, and visitors are warned that failing to secure food may result in a fine.
Food Storage RequiredBear boxes are available at each site and must be used. Typical size is 48" x 30" x 36".

Weather at Big Meadow Campground

Reviews

4.0
19 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Big Meadow Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the campground for its cleanliness, peaceful setting along Rock Creek, and good fishing opportunities. However, some express dissatisfaction with the high campsite fees given the minimal amenities provided.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive comments emphasize the beautiful setting, shaded campsites with aspen and alder trees, and well-maintained flush toilets. Fishing is a highlight, particularly for catching rainbow and brook...
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Based on 19 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the high cost of $35 per night, limited privacy between sites due to their close spacing, and the presence of mosquitoes.
Based on 19 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing mosquito protection and arriving early to secure a spot, as the campground fills up quickly. They also highlight the importance of using bear boxes for food storage due to...
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Based on 19 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground operates seasonally from May to October. Summer months are popular for fishing and enjoying the shaded sites, but mosquitoes are prevalent. Winter camping is not supported, but some...
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Based on 19 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great small camp right along Rock Creek, lots of pines, aspen, and alder for shade. About half the camps are creekside.' - Mike W. 2. 'It's a gorgeous spot, but $33 is nuts for a USFS...
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Based on 19 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites along Rock Creek are particularly desirable due to their proximity to the water. Privacy is limited due to closely spaced sites.
Based on 19 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 19 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed within the campground.
Based on 19 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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