Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Star4.59
122 reviews
INYO
Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazing

Quick Facts

9,700 ft

Price

$95/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May 23 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet 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
Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)
$95.00 - $95.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Seasonal rates are $95 per night for the group walk-to site from May 23 to September 27 (peak season).
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$95.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
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What Campers Say

4.59

Top-Rated

Based on 122 reviews

97 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacywaterlake

Some mention

mosquitoes

"The Rock Creek Lake Group Campground is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, tranquil setting, and proximity to recreational activities. However, some reviewers noted issues such as mosquitoes and the lack of trash collection."

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Campground Map

INYO

Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

INYO

Driving directionsDirections from Mammoth Lakes, California: Drive south on U.S. Highway 395 for approximately 13 miles. Take the Tom's Place exit and proceed west up the canyon for about 10 miles. At the lake, follow the signs to the boat dock and group camp. Directions from Bishop, California: Travel north on U.S. Highway 395 for about 30 miles. Turn left at the Tom's Place exit and proceed west up the canyon for about 10 miles. At the Lake, follow the signs to the boat dock and group camp.
The road out to this campground is wide and very well maintained. However, it is a high elevation facility; visitors are advised to use caution when traveling from lower elevations, and the campground is usually not clear of snow until late May or early June.
Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes (13 miles south), Bishop (30 miles north).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can likely be found in Mammoth Lakes (13 miles away) or Bishop (30 miles away). Specific stores are not listed.

Best Time to Camp at Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Experience the refreshing embrace of true mountain weather at Rock Creek Lake, where summer days bring crisp, invigorating air and nights invite cozy gatherings around the campfire under star-studded skies. The high-elevation climate keeps temperatures pleasantly cool even in peak summer, though wise campers pack layers for those chilly alpine evenings. Spring arrives fashionably late at this elevation, with snow sometimes lingering into early June, painting the landscape in dramatic whites and emerging greens. The thin mountain air at this altitude adds an extra dimension to your adventure—take it slow your first day and let your body adjust to the rarified atmosphere.

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

Peak season May–Sept; cool days for hiking/fishing; popular though mosquitos can be an issue.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open into late Sept with crisp weather and views; shorter season limits late-fall access.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens late May; early spring conditions can be cold with snowmelt and limited access earlier.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is open May 23–Sept 27 and is closed in winter months.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 to September 27 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 23 to September 27 annually, reservations close after September 27.
  • Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions. Campground usually not clear of snow until late May/early June.

About Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Escape to the pristine wilderness of Rock Creek Lake Group Campground, a secluded tent-only retreat that beckons adventurers seeking authentic mountain experiences. Tucked between the vibrant mountain towns of Bishop and Mammoth Lakes within the majestic Inyo National Forest, this hidden gem offers an intimate connection with nature at its finest. Wake up to mirror-like reflections on Rock Creek Lake, cast a line into crystal-clear waters teeming with trout, or set out on trails that wind through ancient forests and lead to breathtaking vistas. Here, privacy meets paradise, where your group can create lasting memories far from the crowds.
Rock Creek Lake Group Campground is a tent-only site designed for group camping. It can accommodate up to 25 people and is separate from the main Rock Creek Lake Campground, offering a private and secluded setting.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is noon.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay up to 14 nights during a visit.

Amenities available

Food storage lockers
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The Rock Creek Lake Group Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding. The Tamarack Trail, starting from the campground, leads to high-elevation, glacially-carved alpine lakes and ponds. Fishing opportunities are abundant, with a chance to catch brook, brown, rainbow, and Alpers trout, as well as golden trout in the backcountry.
HikingThe Tamarack Trail begins at the campground and offers access to several high-elevation lakes and ponds. Hikers can enjoy challenging trails with majestic scenery. According to official descriptions, the trails are a significant draw for visitors.
FishingFishing is a prominent activity at Rock Creek Lake, with opportunities to catch brook, brown, rainbow, and Alpers trout. Backcountry streams may also yield golden trout. Power boats are restricted to electric motors on the lake.
BikingMountain biking is popular in the area, with trails offering scenic views and a mix of terrain suitable for varying skill levels.
BoatingBoating on Rock Creek Lake is limited to non-motorized or electric-powered vessels, preserving the tranquil environment of the lake.
Wildlife viewingThe area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martens, pika, and various fish and bird species. Visitors are advised to store food securely to avoid attracting bears.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife such as black bears and mountain lions are present. High elevation may pose risks for visitors unaccustomed to such altitudes. Mosquitoes may be prevalent during summer mornings and evenings.
Active AlertsFire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions. Campground usually not clear of snow until late May/early June.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food storage lockers are provided at each campsite to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Weather at Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Reviews

4.6
122 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Rock Creek Lake Group Campground is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, tranquil setting, and proximity to recreational activities. However, some reviewers noted issues such as mosquitoes and the lack of trash collection.
Review Summaries
Based on 122 reviews

What Campers Love

"This place is top notch for a walk-in campground and is so gorgeous all around the lake," noted one reviewer. Another stated, "Absolutely beautiful!! Crystal clear water and amazing views of the...
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Based on 122 reviews

Common Concerns

Some common complaints include the prevalence of mosquitoes during certain times of the year and the lack of certain amenities, such as on-site trash collection. One reviewer mentioned, "Way too...
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Based on 122 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Several users recommended bringing mosquito repellent and preparing for cold nights at high altitude. Another tip was to be mindful of bear activity and to secure food properly.
Based on 122 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping, offering cool temperatures and access to hiking and fishing. Some reviewers mentioned that mosquitos can be a nuisance during the warmer months. Winter...
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Based on 122 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Spent four nights tent camping here in late July. Very scenic, near lots of good hiking including an easy walk around the lake." - Kelly McGrath. "This is an amazing campground for tents, vans and...
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Based on 122 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific information is sparse, but one user noted that some campsites require hauling supplies about 500 feet from the parking area. Site 26 was mentioned as being slightly uphill.
Based on 122 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not discussed in detail, though the walk-in nature of the site may present challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 122 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed (up to two per group), but they must be leashed at all times. No specific reviews address pet experiences at this site.
Based on 122 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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