Old Shady Rest Campground

Star4.39
285 reviews

Quick Facts

7,800 ft

Price

$32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens CLM Services 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
Old Shady Rest Campground
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season nightly rate for a standard nonelectric site is $32. Rates are consistent throughout peak seasons.
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
760-934-5795clm@clm-services.com
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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 285 reviews

61 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanshadefriendly

Some mention

noiseroad noisereservation

"User reviews are mixed, highlighting the serene environment, clean facilities, and convenient location. Complaints center around small sites, road noise, and overcrowding during peak seasons."

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Campground Map

Old Shady Rest Campground

37.6506, -118.9614

Driving directionsTake U.S. Highway 395 to State Route 203. Proceed west on 203 for 2.8 miles to Old Sawmill Road. Take a right, go 0.5 mile. The campground entrance is on the left.
Old Shady Rest Campground is located near the town of Mammoth Lakes, making it accessible via paved roads. However, it is recommended to exercise caution when traveling from lower elevations due to its high elevation of 7,800 feet.
Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes: 0 miles (walking distance)
Los Angeles: 300 miles
Reno: 165 miles.
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies like groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be found within Mammoth Lakes, which is within walking distance from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Old Shady Rest Campground

Experience the Sierra's legendary climate, where crisp mountain air and gentle breezes create ideal camping conditions. While winter brings a magical blanket of snow and spring offers refreshing rain showers, it's the glorious mid-summer weeks that truly shine—when azure skies stretch endlessly above and comfortable temperatures invite you to explore from sunrise to sunset. Pack layers for cool evenings and warm days in this high-country paradise.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May–Oct; summer reviews focus on hiking, fishing and biking opportunities.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall is in-season with crisp mountain weather and accessible trails; popular but pleasant.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring offers wildflowers and fresh air but early season snow/melt can affect access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed to reservations outside May 2–Oct 25; winter camping generally unavailable.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 2 through October 25 is the peak season for nightly rates and reservations.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open for reservations from May 2 to October 25. The facility is closed to reservations outside this period but remains accessible for information.

About Old Shady Rest Campground

Escape to Old Shady Rest Campground, where towering Jeffrey pines create a natural cathedral in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California. This expansive mountain retreat serves as your gateway to endless Sierra Nevada adventures—from dawn fishing expeditions to exhilarating ski runs, challenging mountain bike trails to peaceful wildflower hikes. Here, ancient pines whisper stories of the wilderness while providing cool shade for your perfect basecamp in the eastern Sierra.
Old Shady Rest Campground accommodates tent and RV camping, offering standard nonelectric sites. It is best suited for small to medium RVs.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Reserved sites are held until noon the day following check-in.
Check-out
Campers must check out by noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. Total stay limit within rolling 30 days is 14 nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Old Shady Rest Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking and mountain biking trails are popular and easily accessible. Fishing opportunities abound in nearby creeks and lakes. Families can explore the town park, skate park, and paved walking paths nearby. Winter activities such as skiing are also available in the Mammoth area. "Plenty of sites, but be sure to reserve well in advance," noted a camper highlighting the recreational appeal of the area.
HikingOld Shady Rest Campground is near several hiking trails of varying difficulties. "Good mountain biking, hiking, lakes, and parks nearby," noted one camper. The trails range from paved walking paths to challenging hiking routes.
FishingThe eastern Sierras are renowned for excellent trout fishing. Several creeks and lakes are a short drive away, offering quality fishing experiences.
BikingMountain biking trails are highly rated. "Good mountain biking, hiking, lakes, and parks nearby," stated one review. Biking trails connect the campground to town and nearby attractions.
Wildlife viewingThe area hosts diverse wildlife such as black bears, mule deer, mountain lions, pine martens, pikas, and various birds. "Experienced 5 days straight of afternoon thunder showers," noted a camper, highlighting natural occurrences.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe nearby visitor center offers educational opportunities for families. "Families enjoy learning more at the visitor center down the street," noted the official description.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are frequent visitors; campers must strictly follow bear-proofing protocols. High elevation requires acclimatization for travelers from lower elevations.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available to prevent wildlife disturbances. Lockers must be used for all food storage.

Weather at Old Shady Rest Campground

Reviews

4.4
285 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Old Shady Rest Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting the serene environment, clean facilities, and convenient location. Complaints center around small sites, road noise, and overcrowding during peak seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 285 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, proximity to town, friendly hosts, and accessibility to recreational activities. "Hosts are always friendly and reasonable," stated...
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Based on 285 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative aspects include issues with site size, outdated facilities, road noise, and inconsistent maintenance. "Sites are on the small side if you’re looking to bring an extended size trailer," said...
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Based on 285 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend reserving sites well in advance due to high demand. Bear safety is emphasized, as noted in multiple reviews. "PLEASE take the bear regulations seriously and also lock up ALL food...
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Based on 285 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews highlight skiing opportunities and serene snow-covered landscapes. Summer reviews focus on hiking, fishing, and biking. Reviews often caution about overcrowding and road noise during...
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Based on 285 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Clean campground with a very welcoming camp host," noted one reviewer. "Bathrooms were immaculate," stated another camper. "Very relaxing campground. Serene, quiet, and clean," wrote one reviewer.
Based on 285 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews reveal varying levels of satisfaction. Site #17 was criticized for clear-cutting and construction activities nearby. Site #044 was noted for its long distance to bathrooms....
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Based on 285 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are praised for proximity to town and amenities. "Easy walking distance to the bus stop," noted one reviewer. Specific accommodations for disabilities are not detailed.
Based on 285 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies allow two pets per site, which is appreciated by campers. "Dog-friendly," remarked one user.
Based on 285 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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