Grandview Campground

Star4.48
97 reviews
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Stargazing

Quick Facts

8,600 ft

Price

$5 - $10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

25 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Inyo National Forest site

Official Website
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Grandview Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No official camping fees are required. However, a maintenance donation of $10 per night is recommended and payable at the campground entrance.
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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(760) 873-2500null
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What Campers Say

4.48

Recommended

Based on 97 reviews

83 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spaciouswell-maintainedsites

Some mention

noise

"Grandview Campground receives high praise for its pristine night skies, spacious sites, and proximity to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. However, the lack of water and remote location are consistent themes in both positive and critical reviews."

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Campground Map

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Grandview Campground

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Driving directionsFrom Big Pine, CA, take US Rt. 395 north 0.2 miles to Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest sign. Turn right at sign and go 13.2 miles to another Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest sign. Turn left after sign onto Forest Rt. 4S01 and go 5.3 miles to campground on left.
Highway 168 is narrow and steep. A section of the road is single-lane with limited visibility, challenging for large vehicles and RVs.
Nearby places
Big Pine (approximately 18 miles, 40-45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Nearest source for food, water, or fuel is Big Pine, CA, approximately 18 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Grandview Campground

The high-altitude climate here tells a story of dramatic contrasts. Spring nights can surprise visitors with crisp temperatures plunging to 25°F, while summer days warm pleasantly without the scorching heat found at lower elevations. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, creating a magical setting for those brave enough to experience the campground's quieter season. The thin mountain air and cool evenings make this an ideal summer refuge from desert heat.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is peak season: pleasant days and heavy new‑moon stargazing activity.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Crisp nights and fewer crowds make fall appealing, per seasonal notes.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring visits noted as good though nights can drop to ~25°F; some positive reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round but cold and less frequented; suitable for those prepared for snow/cold.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak usage occurs during new moon phases, as stargazers and astronomy clubs frequent the campground.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round. Not seasonal.
  • Current Alerts: Plague warnings are issued for the region; pets must be on flea preventative.

About Grandview Campground

Nestled among rolling hills draped in fragrant Pinyon and Juniper forests, Grandview Campground offers an escape into pristine wilderness at 8,600 feet. Just five miles from the legendary Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, this tranquil retreat features 23 thoughtfully spaced sites across two loops that embrace a central sagebrush meadow. Each flat, sandy campsite is sheltered by generous shade trees, creating intimate spaces where the only sounds are wind through the pines and the occasional call of mountain birds.
Grandview Campground is designed for primitive camping and is ideal for those seeking a no-frills camping experience with a focus on stargazing and proximity to natural attractions like the Bristlecone Pine Forest.
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Stay Limit
14 days maximum.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Grandview Campground offers activities centered around its unique setting, including stargazing, hiking, and visits to the nearby Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. Swimming, boating, and fishing are not available due to the lack of water sources.
HikingThe Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, located 5 miles away, features trails such as those at Schulman Grove and Patriarch Grove. Hikes in the area are noted for their beauty but should be approached with caution due to the high elevation.
Wildlife viewingThe area is home to various wildlife species, and the quiet setting allows for observation, though specifics on species are scarce.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsCampfire programs are held on weekends from July through Labor Day, focusing on astronomy and local ecology.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo piped or natural water sources; visitors must bring all the water they need. Narrow and steep roads may challenge drivers. "Bring everything you need. No water!" (User review by David Blondfield).
Active AlertsPlague warnings are issued for the region; pets must be on flea preventative.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Grandview Campground

Reviews

4.5
97 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Grandview Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Grandview Campground receives high praise for its pristine night skies, spacious sites, and proximity to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. However, the lack of water and remote location are consistent themes in both positive and critical reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 97 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include stunning stargazing opportunities, well-maintained vault toilets, spacious and private campsites, and closeness to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.
Based on 97 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms focus on the lack of potable water, occasional noise from other campers, and the challenging drive along steep, narrow roads to reach the site.
Based on 97 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water and warm clothing, especially if visiting during colder months. Arrive early as sites are first-come, first-served, and the campground fills up quickly during new moon phases. A...
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Based on 97 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with high traffic during new moon periods for stargazing. Winter visits are less frequent but offer serene, snowy landscapes for those prepared for cold conditions.
Based on 97 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Incredible night skies and nice separation/privacy between sites." - Adam Jaycox; "Bring PLENTY of water! Oh, and did I mention water?" - Matthew Storm; "Amazing FREE campsite with breathtaking...
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Based on 97 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites are described as spacious, with many providing ample privacy. Some can accommodate multiple vehicles, and users suggest avoiding the site during peak stargazing events unless arriving early.
Based on 97 reviews

Accessibility Features

No detailed accessibility reviews are available, though the presence of wheelchair-friendly vault toilets is noted.
Based on 97 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be on a leash.
Based on 97 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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