Onion Valley
4.27164 reviewsIndependence, CA, USA
Quick Facts
9,200 ftPrice
$31/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
29 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,200 ftPrice
$31/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
29 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsOnion Valley
$31.00 - $31.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates are $31.00 per night for standard nonelectric, tent-only nonelectric, and walk-to sites. Displayed rates do not include taxes,...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$31.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$31.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$62.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider760-937-6070
What Campers Say
4.27
Satisfactory
Based on 164 reviews
3 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquietpeacefulclean
Some mention
reservation
"The Onion Valley Campground receives generally positive reviews, with its breathtaking scenery and access to popular hiking trails being the most frequently praised aspects. However, the lack of potable water and uneven ground in some campsites are recurring complaints."
Fees & Passes at Onion Valley
$31/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Guests may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur additional charges, including forfeiting th...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation Resource Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Onion Valley
Experience the dramatic beauty of high-altitude weather at Onion Valley, where sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool mountain evenings. Early and late season visitors might wake to a dusting of snow on nearby peaks, adding a magical touch to the landscape. As darkness falls, temperatures plunge dramatically, reminding you that you're camping in true mountain territory—so pack those extra layers and prepare for nature's nightly temperature roller coaster.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 15 - October 21 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is open from May 15 to October 21, with peak reservations starting on June 24.
- Current Alerts: Water is not available at the campground; faucets remain dry. Campers must bring their own water supply or use a water filter.
About Onion Valley
Perched at an impressive 9,200 feet in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Onion Valley Campground offers adventurers a breathtaking basecamp where alpine meadows meet towering granite peaks. This coveted high-country retreat serves as your gateway to endless wilderness adventures, with direct access to the legendary John Muir Wilderness and the backcountry of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Here, where the air is crisp and the stars shine brilliantly against the mountain sky, you'll find yourself immersed in one of California's most spectacular alpine settings.
Onion Valley Campground is a rustic, high-altitude facility offering sites primarily for tent camping and small RVs or trailers. It also includes walk-in sites that require short hikes from the parking area. Primitive camping is the main focus, with minimal amenities provided.
Historical SignificanceStanding as a cherished portal to the John Muir Wilderness, Onion Valley Campground connects modern adventurers to a landscape that has inspired generations of mountaineers, naturalists, and wilderness advocates. This gateway campground honors the legacy of conservation and exploration that defines the Sierra Nevada, offering visitors the chance to follow in the footsteps of those who fought to preserve these magnificent wild spaces for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of high-altitude weather at Onion Valley, where sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool mountain evenings. Early and late season visitors might wake to a dusting of snow on nearby peaks, adding a magical touch to the landscape. As darkness falls, temperatures plunge dramatically, reminding you that you're camping in true mountain territory—so pack those extra layers and prepare for nature's nightly temperature roller coaster.
ElevationAt 9,200 feet above sea level, Onion Valley Campground isn't just high—it's strategically positioned for those seeking to conquer even loftier peaks. This elevation makes it the perfect staging ground for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the thin mountain air before embarking on ambitious high-altitude adventures. As the sun sets behind the surrounding peaks, you'll feel the elevation's bite as temperatures plummet, creating that quintessential alpine camping experience that keeps you snuggled deep in your sleeping bag.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle babbling of a mountain creek just steps from your tent, surrounded by a tapestry of lodgepole pines and quaking aspens that shimmer in the breeze. In summer, vibrant wildflowers paint the meadows in brilliant splashes of color, while the surrounding shrublands provide habitat for an impressive cast of wildlife characters. Keep your camera ready—black bears might lumber through at dusk, mule deer often graze in the early morning light, and if you're exceptionally fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive mountain lion. Above it all, various bird species fill the mountain air with their calls, creating nature's own morning symphony.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Onion Valley Campground sits amidst a geological wonderland where ancient granite spires pierce the sky and cascading waterfalls tumble down rocky cliffs. This dramatic landscape, sculpted by millions of years of geological forces and glacial carving, borders the pristine John Muir Wilderness—a testament to the raw power and beauty of the Sierra Nevada. Thick forests blanket the lower slopes while barren granite dominates the heights, creating a diverse ecosystem that showcases the full majesty of California's most iconic mountain range.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the sources provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally small, with room for one vehicle and a two-person tent in most cases. Some sites are identified as walk-in only, requiring campers to haul their gear from the parking area.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some are described as secluded and surrounded by trees and brush, while others are near the parking lot or close to neighboring sites.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #11 is ideal for families due to its spacious layout. Walk-in sites such as #22 and #25 offer privacy but require carrying gear.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by checkout time (12:00 PM) on the day following arrival.
Check-out
Check-out time for all sites is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite accommodates one vehicle or tent trailer and permits an additional vehicle for an added fee.
Groups
Information on group sites is not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of primitive sites, some designated as walk-in. Sites are arranged near the creek and trailhead parking.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 15 to October 21, with peak reservations starting on June 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited due to high demand, as most sites are reserved during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur additional charges, including forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Onion Valley offers an array of outdoor activities that cater primarily to hikers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. The proximity to the John Muir Wilderness makes it a popular base for exploring alpine lakes, mountain peaks, and scenic trails. Fishing in nearby Robinson Lake and the surrounding creeks is a highlight, as is wildlife viewing in this biodiverse area.
Hiking
Access to Kearsarge Pass, Robinson Lake, and Golden Trout Lakes Trailheads offers challenging trails with majestic scenery. Details about these trails emphasize their popularity among both day hikers and backpackers.Fishing
The area is renowned for fishing, with opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, brook, and Alpers trout in Robinson Lake and nearby streams.Wildlife viewing
Abundant wildlife includes black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and various bird species. Campers should use bear-proof storage lockers and maintain a clean camp to minimize wildlife encounters.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically detailed, but the campground's high elevation and snow exposure suggest potential for snowshoeing or winter hiking.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood is available for purchase on-site. Fire restrictions may apply during hot and dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are enforced but specific times are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is frequented by black bears, and campers are advised to store food securely. Mountain lions and cold temperatures can also pose risks.
Active alertsWater is not available at the campground; faucets remain dry. Campers must bring their own water supply or use a water filter.
Weather at Onion Valley
34
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 18.8 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are in Independence, CA, which is 13 miles away. This includes local police and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 21 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available, and reviews mention that they are regularly emptied. There are no mentions of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to a creek, with nearby alpine lakes accessible via trailheads.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include lack of potable water, uneven campsite ground, and high fees for reservation modifications or cancellations.
HostHosts are not stationed at the campground, but staff regularly maintain restrooms and provide firewood.
Campground Map
Independence, CA, USA
Driving directionsTake U.S. Highway 395 to Independence. Turn west on Market Street, which turns into Onion Valley Road. Follow Onion Valley Road for 13 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Onion Valley Road, which is steep and winding but paved. Trailers are not recommended due to the terrain, although tent trailers are permissible.Nearby places
Independence (13 miles, approximately 25 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies can be found in Independence, CA, including fuel, food, and camping necessities. Lone Pine, CA, located approximately 30 minutes away, offers additional dining and shopping options.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
164 reviews
Onion Valley is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Onion Valley Campground receives generally positive reviews, with its breathtaking scenery and access to popular hiking trails being the most frequently praised aspects. However, the lack of potable water and uneven ground in some campsites are recurring complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 164 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms maintained to a high standard, incredible views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks, and proximity to trailheads for spectacular hikes. Many reviewers also appreciate the quiet,...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of potable water is the most common complaint, followed by issues with uneven or poorly maintained campsites. Some users also noted the difficulty of parking, the lack of level ground for...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water or a filtration system. Reviewers recommend arriving prepared for high-altitude conditions, including potential altitude sickness. They also advise selecting campsites...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest in summer and early fall, with many visitors using it as a base for backpacking trips. In winter, snow can make access challenging. Wind and cold temperatures are common...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The pit toilets were the cleanest and freshest smelling I have ever experienced!" - David E.
"Amazing views!! However, it’s too crowded with people, especially the PCTers." - Cory L.
"Bring your own...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 025 is described as having great views and being worth the short walk. Site 011 is noted for being private and suitable for family tents. Site 012 has mixed reviews, with some appreciating its...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not well-documented, but some reviews note that walk-in sites involve a short hike that may not be suitable for everyone.
Based on 164 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but altitude sickness in dogs was noted in at least one review. The campground enforces leash rules and limits pets to two per site.
Based on 164 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement