Obsidian Flat

Star4.33
17 reviews
BOX 429, LEE VINING, CA 93541, USA
Peace & QuietStargazing

Quick Facts

7,800 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Peak season: June 15...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Inyo National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Obsidian Flat
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group standard nonelectric sites are charged at a nightly rate of $20 during the peak season (June 15 - September 30). Additional fees include an $8...
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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$20.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
760-647-3045
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What Campers Say

4.33

Recommended

Based on 17 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacypeacefulspacious

"Reviews of Obsidian Flat Group Campground are mixed, with some users praising the secluded and peaceful location, while others found it difficult to locate or inaccessible due to the road conditions."

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Campground Map

BOX 429, LEE VINING, CA 93541, USA

Obsidian Flat

BOX 429, LEE VINING, CA 93541, USA

Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 395 and State Highway 203 (Mammoth Lakes Junction), travel 8.2 miles north on 395. Turn west onto Deadman Road and follow for 3.2 miles to Upper Deadman Campground. Turn toward the Group Campground turnoff onto FS Road 2S05F. Continue one mile to the campground on the right.
The site is accessed via an unpaved dirt road (FS Road 2S05F) which is described as rocky but passable for most vehicles. User reviews mention difficulties with larger trailers around curves near the bathroom and recommend 4-wheel drive for some parts during specific conditions. "We made it in a Toyota Sienna and a Honda Civic, so any car would be able to travel without any problems."
Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes (~15 miles), June Lake (~20 miles), Bishop (~40 miles), Lee Vining (~6.5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies available in Lee Vining (~6.5 miles). Mammoth Lakes (~15 miles north) offers more comprehensive options for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Obsidian Flat

The high Sierra climate here rewards visitors with remarkably clear skies—sunshine graces the campground 81% of the time during peak season. Expect crisp mountain air with comfortable daytime temperatures hovering around 52°F, while evenings cool to a refreshing 30°F, perfect for gathering around the campfire. As befits this lofty 7,800-foot perch, winter's grip can linger well into spring—snow may blanket the ground until late May or even June. The elevation demands respect: visitors ascending from lower altitudes should take time to acclimate to the thinner air.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in CA

Peak season June 15–Sep 30 with '81% sunshine' and good daytime temps; ideal summer camping.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Likely pleasant early fall conditions and scenery, but season length/data limited.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Site closed to bookings before June 15; snow likely makes spring inaccessible.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground inaccessible in winter due to snow; bookings closed outside peak season.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 15 - September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Peak season: June 15 - September 30. No bookings are accepted outside of these dates.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal snow levels may affect access. Campground usually clears by late May or early June.

About Obsidian Flat

Hidden among the towering pines of the eastern Sierra Nevada, Obsidian Flat Group Campground offers an intimate escape into California's high country wilderness. At 7,800 feet elevation, this secluded group camping haven invites you to gather beneath ancient conifers while the gentle murmur of Deadman Creek provides nature's soundtrack. Whether you're drawn to trek the legendary trails of the nearby Ansel Adams Wilderness, cast a line into crystal-clear mountain waters, or explore rugged terrain on two wheels, this tranquil forest retreat serves as your perfect basecamp for Sierra adventures.
Obsidian Flat is a group campground offering a primitive camping experience, suitable for tents and RVs. It is focused on group use, accommodating up to 50 people.
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Reserving a campsite

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Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The Obsidian Flat Group Campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking. The nearby Deadman Creek Trail provides access to the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and trout fishing is popular in Deadman Creek.
HikingHiking opportunities are abundant, with trails leading into the Ansel Adams Wilderness. The scenery is described as majestic, and the trails are challenging, catering to experienced hikers.
FishingThe campground is located adjacent to Deadman Creek, which is known for its trout fishing opportunities. One reviewer mentioned that the creek near the site disappears underground even with a good flow.
BikingMountain biking is a popular activity in the area, and the challenging terrain is a draw for biking enthusiasts.
Wildlife viewingThe campground is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika, and various bird species.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include rocky unpaved roads, steep curves for trailers, and wildlife such as black bears and mountain lions. "Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle."
Active AlertsSeasonal snow levels may affect access. Campground usually clears by late May or early June.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Food Storage RequiredTwo bear-proof lockers are available at the group campsite. "Great group site with 2 bear cabinets."

Weather at Obsidian Flat

Reviews

4.3
17 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Obsidian Flat is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Obsidian Flat Group Campground are mixed, with some users praising the secluded and peaceful location, while others found it difficult to locate or inaccessible due to the road conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the seclusion, privacy, and spaciousness of the site. 'Very peaceful and private campground' and 'Great site, lots of space' were common sentiments. The bear-proof lockers and...
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Based on 17 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints included difficulty in locating the site, with one reviewer stating, 'We never found the group camping site.' Another noted that it 'does not exist,' describing the area as a 'road...
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Based on 17 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving before dark due to challenges in locating the site. One user advised, 'When you pull off Deadman Creek Rd go straight, don't take any left or right turns.' Bringing your...
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Based on 17 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is inaccessible in winter due to snow. Peak season occurs between mid-June and late September, with favorable weather conditions for camping.
Based on 17 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Good secluded location, ideal for bigger groups or those who want more privacy when camping.' 2. 'The security door allowed us to feel safe even when alone in the campground.' 3. 'Little hard to...
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Based on 17 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

All reviews are focused on the single group site available. Positive feedback highlights the spaciousness and amenities, while negative feedback focuses on access difficulties.
Based on 17 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific feedback related to accessibility features was provided in the reviews.
Based on 17 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific feedback or policies regarding pets were mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 17 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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