North Lake Campground

Star4.39
34 reviews
37.2272, -118.6273 is the general location near North Fork Bishop Creek, California.

Quick Facts

9,500 ft

Price

$32/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens White Mountain Ranger District site

Official Website
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North Lake Campground
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee for a single campsite is $32 per night, with an additional vehicle charge of $10 per night. America The Beautiful Senior and Access Pass...
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Standard Site Fee$32.00
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

4.39

Recommended

Based on 34 reviews

21 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquiethiking

"User reviews for North Lake Campground are mixed, highlighting its scenic beauty and tranquility but also pointing out challenges like mosquitoes and limited privacy."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

37.2272, -118.6273 is the general location near North Fork Bishop Creek, California.

North Lake Campground

37.2272, -118.6273 is the general location near North Fork Bishop Creek, California.

Driving directionsFrom Bishop, CA, head west on State Route 168 for approximately 18 miles. Turn right onto North Lake Road and proceed up the hill for about 2 miles. Follow signs to the campground, which is about 0.5 miles past North Lake.
The road to the campground includes steep, narrow, and winding sections with alternating gravel and paved surfaces for the last 2.1 miles. Trailers and RVs are prohibited due to the challenging terrain.
Nearby places
Bishop (approximately 18 miles), Mammoth Lakes (approximately 55 miles).
Nearby supplies
Cardinal Village Resort offers limited groceries, fishing supplies, internet access, and a cafe serving breakfast and lunch, located nearby.

Best Time to Camp at North Lake Campground

Each season paints North Lake with its own dramatic brush. Summer arrives with warm days perfect for hiking, though early-season visitors should pack bug spray for the mosquito welcoming committee that buzzes through spring and early summer. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise when golden aspens burst into flame against the evergreen canvas. Winter often arrives early at this elevation, sometimes drawing a snowy curtain across the access road and sending the campground into its quiet hibernation.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm summer days ideal for hiking and fishing; early-summer mosquitoes noted but improve later.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall praised for vibrant Aspen colors and cooler temps; mosquitoes diminish.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Mosquitoes prevalent in spring and early summer, reducing enjoyment for many reviewers.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter (open May 15–Sep 21).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 15 to September 21 in 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 15 to September 21 in 2025.

About North Lake Campground

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Inyo National Forest, North Lake Campground offers an intimate escape into California's high country. This charming 11-site retreat, including three secluded walk-in spots, whispers rather than shouts its presence among towering Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines. Here, where the North Fork of Bishop Creek tumbles past your tent, anglers cast their lines at dawn while backpackers fuel up before tackling the legendary Piute Pass and Lamarck trails. This is old-school camping at its finest—no piped water, no RV hookups, just you and the raw beauty of the Sierra. The narrow, winding approach road naturally filters out larger rigs, preserving the campground's peaceful, tent-only atmosphere that has drawn outdoor purists for generations.
North Lake Campground exclusively accommodates tent camping within its 11 sites. It is not suitable for RVs or trailers due to narrow access roads and the absence of hookups.
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 days

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

North Lake Campground is frequented by anglers, hikers, and nature lovers. The campground's proximity to Piute Pass and Lamarck trails is a significant draw.
HikingThe campground provides direct access to Piute Pass Trail (4.5 miles) and Lamarck Trail (1.5 miles), both of which connect to a network of trails in the John Muir Wilderness.
FishingFishing at North Lake is popular, with opportunities to catch Rainbow, Brown, Brook, and Alpers trout.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is possible, with frequent sightings of deer and occasional encounters with mountain lions. Bear activity is common, requiring strict adherence to food security guidelines.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe area is an active bear region; food storage guidelines must be followed. Mosquitoes are common in spring and early summer. One user reported encountering a mountain lion in a meadow nearby.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Food Storage RequiredBear boxes (48" x 30" x 36") are provided at each site for safe food storage.

Weather at North Lake Campground

Reviews

4.4
34 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
North Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for North Lake Campground are mixed, highlighting its scenic beauty and tranquility but also pointing out challenges like mosquitoes and limited privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciated the quiet environment due to the tent-only policy, scenic views, proximity to hiking trails and fishing spots, and the presence of bear boxes for food security.
Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns raised by users include dense mosquito populations during spring and early summer, cramped campsites with minimal privacy, and aggressive signage by concessionaires.
Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring mosquito repellents and bug spray during warmer months. Arriving early is recommended as sites are first-come, first-served. Be cautious on the narrow, winding access...
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Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquitoes are prevalent in spring and early summer, but they dissipate by late summer and fall due to cooler temperatures. Fall camping is particularly noted for its vibrant Aspen colors.
Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

Loretta St Martin states, 'I love being next to the creek; it’s very calming to me. Bugs are gone this time of year due to the temps at 9,500 ft.'; Werner Schueller mentions, 'Dark and dingy,...
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Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #9 is highlighted for its location by the river, but campers noted that the river noise might be disruptive for some. Walk-in sites are preferred for privacy.
Based on 34 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited, with no features specifically catering to individuals with disabilities.
Based on 34 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times in the campground.
Based on 34 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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