Iris Meadow Campground

Star4.38
32 reviews
Rock Creek Rd, California

Quick Facts

8,400 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Open May 11 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens White Mountain Public Lands Information Center site

Official Website
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Iris Meadow Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Overnight use is charged at $35 per single site, with a $10 charge per additional vehicle. America the Beautiful Access/Senior Passes provide a 50%...
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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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Provider
(760) 873-2500
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What Campers Say

4.38

Recommended

Based on 32 reviews

28 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

"Reviews for Iris Meadow Campground are mixed, offering insights into its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, but also highlighting issues such as the enforcement of rules and the campground's pricing."

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Campground Map

Rock Creek Rd, California

Iris Meadow Campground

Rock Creek Rd, California

Driving directionsFrom Mammoth Lakes, CA, take State Rt. 203 east 0.9 miles to US Rt. 395. Bear right onto Rt. 395 (south) to Bishop and go 15.2 miles to Tom's Place sign. Turn right after sign onto Rock Creek Rd and go 4 miles to campground on right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, though parking aprons are dirt. RV waste station facilities are located across from French Camp campground (no potable water). Maximum vehicle length is 26 feet.
Nearby places
Bishop (approximately 23 miles north), Mammoth Lakes (approximately 15.2 miles south).
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available at Rock Creek Lake Lodge (having a little store and offering breakfast and coffee). Additionally, larger grocery and camping supply stores are available in nearby Bishop, approximately 23 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Iris Meadow Campground

At this lofty alpine perch, Mother Nature paints each season with dramatic brushstrokes. From late spring through early fall, temperatures dance between brisk 35°F mornings and pleasant 75°F afternoons, while afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through to water the wildflowers. Summer rewards visitors with crystalline blue skies and comfortable humidity levels, though wise campers always pack layers—snow can dust the landscape during shoulder seasons, reminding everyone of the mountain's wild heart.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

May–Oct open; pleasant afternoons to ~75°F and wildflower season into early summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall colors in October described as "stunning"; reviewers specifically praise October visits.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Late spring iris bloom and cool mornings highlighted; ideal time for wildflowers and pleasant temps.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 11–Oct 24; winter rating not applicable.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May through October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 11 through October 24.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal winter damage may cause closures (as noted by reviews).

About Iris Meadow Campground

Nestled in a serene alpine meadow, this intimate 13-site campground forms a welcoming loop around a verdant grass clearing, with a peaceful spur extending toward the melodic waters of Rock Creek. While most sites bask in open sunshine and accommodate RVs up to 26 feet, sites 3-8 offer a cooler retreat beneath a natural canopy, creating perfect havens for tent campers and pop-up trailers. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with its own picnic table and grill, with firewood readily available for those crisp mountain evenings around the campfire.
Iris Meadow Campground features a variety of camping options including primitive tent sites and combined sites for small RVs and tents. No group or cabin accommodations are available.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Unspecified
Check-out
Unspecified
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 days allowed per reservation.

Amenities available

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

Activities you can enjoy

Iris Meadow Campground is set against a serene natural backdrop with activities centered on enjoying the outdoors. The rushing sounds of Rock Creek provide a soothing ambiance, with fishing being a popular activity. Wildlife viewing is implicitly supported by the surrounding habitat of aspens and willows.
FishingThe campground is close to Rock Creek and offers fishing opportunities for Rainbow, Brown, Brook, and Alpers trout. User reviews report mixed experiences with fishing; some found it enjoyable, while others described it as 'OK but not great.'
Wildlife viewingWhile wildlife viewing is not explicitly mentioned, the presence of aspens, willows, and Rock Creek suggests a rich natural environment conducive to spotting local fauna.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is common; improper food storage could result in fines (minimum $150). Mosquitoes are noted as a nuisance during warmer months.
Active AlertsSeasonal winter damage may cause closures (as noted by reviews).
Food Storage RequiredBear boxes provided at all sites; standard dimensions are 48 inches x 30 inches x 36 inches.

Weather at Iris Meadow Campground

Reviews

4.4
32 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Iris Meadow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Iris Meadow Campground are mixed, offering insights into its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, but also highlighting issues such as the enforcement of rules and the campground's pricing.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the campground's scenic beauty, proximity to Rock Creek, and its peaceful atmosphere. Fall colors in October were noted as stunning, and the sound of the creek was deemed soothing.
Based on 32 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include high pricing for the amenities offered, passive-aggressive behavior of the camp host, and the strict enforcement of rules such as maintaining a distance of 100 feet from the creek,...
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Based on 32 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent, being prepared for rule enforcement, and practicing safe food storage techniques given the active bear area. One user highlighted the convenience of...
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Based on 32 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Users highlighted the campground's beauty during fall, especially in October. Weather trends indicate that late spring and early summer are ideal for enjoying the blooming wild irises.
Based on 32 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campground was beautiful. There's a wonderful Creek that runs through it and the fall colors were amazing in October.' - User review by Luana Barajas 2. 'Nice and quiet and fairly small so...
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Based on 32 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 3-8 are shaded by Aspen and Lodgepole pine and offer more privacy, making them ideal for tents and pop-up campers. Sites on the loop are open and can accommodate larger RVs.
Based on 32 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are minimal. Wheelchair-friendly toilets are not available.
Based on 32 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed in all developed recreation sites.
Based on 32 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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