How much does camping cost at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Camping fees at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) are $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) first-come first-served or reservation?

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) before I book?

Yes! Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) has 10 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) is open May 22 to September 25. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Yes, Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) have?

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) has 26 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Yes, pets are allowed at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca). Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Popular activities at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) include Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

4.22

276 reviews

, BISHOP, CA 93515, USA

Top 15% in CASummer

C+Report Card

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

9,600 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Peak season: May 23r...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,600 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Peak season: May 23r...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

$35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC: $35.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $35.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $35.00; WALK TO: $35.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$35.00

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Provider

760-873-2500

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Campground Map

, BISHOP, CA 93515, USA

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

, BISHOP, CA 93515, USA

Nearby places

Mammoth Lakes (13 miles, approximately 20-minute drive)

Bishop (approx. 10 miles west of Tom's Place, reachable in less than 40 minutes total).

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

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

Best season: summer. Summer offers full access to the high-elevation lake, reliably mild daytime weather (typically into the mid-60s to mid-70s°F) and long daylight for hiking, fishing, boating and swimming—while nights stay crisp (often 30s–40s°F) for comfortable camping. By summer the access road and trails are usually clear, the lake is navigable, and most facilities (bear lockers, sites) are open, so all activities are at peak. Expect afternoon thunderstorms occasionally, and moderate crowds on holiday weekends, Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in CA

Summer is best season: mild days, full lake access, peak recreation (hiking, fishing, boating).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to September 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak season: May 23rd - September 27th annually. Closed for reservations out of season.

About Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Rock Creek Lake sits at high elevation in Inyo National Forest near Bishop, operated by Recreation Resource Management with tent, RV, walk-in, group sites, and cabins. The alpine setting draws visitors for fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing along the lake and surrounding trails. Facilities include flush and vault toilets, showers, potable water, and fire rings, with a 14-day stay limit during the seasonal operating window.

Rock Creek Lake Campground offers a mix of tent-only, walk-in sites, RV sites, and group camping options. Several sites are praised for their privacy and proximity to the lake.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers full access to the high-elevation lake, reliably mild daytime weather (typically into the mid-60s to mid-70s°F) and long daylight for hiking, fishing, boating and swimming—while nights stay crisp (often 30s–40s°F) for comfortable camping. By summer the access road and trails are usually clear, the lake is navigable, and most facilities (bear lockers, sites) are open, so all activities are at peak. Expect afternoon thunderstorms occasionally, and moderate crowds on holiday weekends, Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation9600 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a glacially carved basin below the Sierra Nevada ridgeline. Rock Creek Lake spreads out below granite peaks, surrounded by scattered lodgepole pine and aspen groves. The elevation keeps the lake cold even in summer. Reviewers consistently mention the scenery as a standout feature. Wildlife includes black bears (hence the mandatory lockers), mule deer, and trout in the lake. The alpine setting means thinner soil, exposed rock, and limited understory vegetation compared to lower-elevation forests.

Lodging & AccommodationsCabins and nearby resort accommodations are available for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping.

Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs are available nearby, though specific details are limited.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights maximum per stay.

Guests Allowed Per Site

One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites accommodate one extra vehicle for an additional nightly fee.

Groups

Spacious group camping areas are available with private bathrooms and close proximity to the lake. Users recommend reserving early.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityBear boxes for food storage are available at all sites, helping ensure safety from wildlife. Wheelbarrows are provided for transporting gear to walk-in sites.

Site SizeSites vary from compact to spacious; some walk-in sites offer additional privacy.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; several reviewers highlighted the secluded nature of walk-in campsites such as Site 26, while others noted crowded conditions in RV areas.

Total Campsites26 campsites

Recommended SitesWalk-in sites offer privacy; site 20 is recommended for closer car access. Site 25 offers creek-side camping.

Best CampsitesWalk-in sites 21 through 26 get specific praise in reviews for privacy and views. Site 26 is called out multiple times as particularly secluded. These sites require a short hike in but offer more space and quieter surroundings than the RV areas, which reviewers describe as crowded.

Need help booking Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Rock Creek Lake Campground offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the camping experience. The campsites are well-spaced along the lake shore and include tent-only, walk-in sites as well as sites for RV camping. Boat rentals, educational programs, and nearby groceries are available. Bear-proof lockers are provided at each site for food storage due to active bear presence. Firewood can be purchased on-site.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Numerous recreational activities are available, including exceptional trout fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating with electric motors are popular on Rock Creek Lake.

Hiking4.0/5

Fishing4.0/5

Biking4.0/5Top 13% in California

Mountain biking popular; trails like Sand Canyon and Lower Rock Creek mentioned.

Boating4.0/5

Boats with electric motors allowed; boating, SUP and paddleboarding are popular activities.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Area hosts black bears, mule deer, pika and diverse birds; wildlife viewing noted in overview.

Water Sports4.0/5

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5High-elevation, remote alpine setting favors dark skies though no explicit star reports provided.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers provided at all sites, standard size 48" x 30" x 36".

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

276 reviews

Satisfactory

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight stunning scenery, excellent hiking opportunities, and clean facilities. However, some reviewers have noted issues such as site overcrowding, maintenance challenges, and unhelpful campground hosts.

Review Summaries

Based on 276 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 276 reviews.

Site 26Loved
Site 26 is noted for privacy and seclusion.
Site 22Loved
Walk-in sites such as Site 22 are praised for views but require a significant hike.
Site 1Issues noted
Site 1 lacks shade but offers proximity to the lake.

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include 'absolutely beautiful scenery,' 'great hiking trails,' 'clean bathrooms,' and 'excellent fishing.' Walk-in sites such as Site 26 are praised for privacy and views.

Based on 276 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include 'crowded RV sites,' 'unfriendly campground hosts,' 'maintenance issues with bathrooms,' and 'inaccurate online booking information.'

Based on 276 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Recommendations include using bear lockers, bringing bug spray, packing light for walk-in sites, and visiting Rock Creek Lakes Resort for groceries and showers.

Based on 276 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer receive favorable reviews for hiking and fishing, though mosquitoes are prevalent. Winter activities are not mentioned but snow conditions may limit access.

Based on 276 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Absolutely beautiful!! Crystal clear water and amazing views of the surrounding mountains.' - Audie Holbert 2. 'The fishing is excellent, lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery.' - Biggs The...

Based on 276 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelbarrows are available to help transport gear at walk-in sites. Some users note difficulty accessing certain sites at night.

Based on 276 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on leash. User reviews often mention enjoying camping trips with dogs, noting the need to keep pets bear-aware.

Based on 276 reviews

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Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

$35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC: $35.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $35.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $35.00; WALK TO: $35.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

760-873-2500

Go if

You want alpine scenery, lake access for fishing and boating, and don't mind summer mosquitoes or seasonal crowds.

Skip if

You need solitude or want to avoid mosquitoes and closely spaced sites during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

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

4.5

(122)

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

INYO

Rock Creek Lake Group Camp sits at high elevation in Inyo National Forest, offering a single primitive group site for tent camping near a crystal-clear alpine lake. Managed by Inyo National Forest, the campground operates seasonally during summer months when trails and lake access are snow-free. Campers hike, fish for trout, paddle, and watch wildlife in the surrounding high country, with crisp days and cold nights that drop near freezing.

Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Campground Map

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

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

Planning Tips

About Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Policies & Safety

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What Campers Love

Common Concerns

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How campers graded it

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Overview

Ask Camp Sage about Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

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

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)?

Amenities available

Things to do at Rock Creek Lake (Inyo National Forest, Ca)

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns