Tuff Campground
4.4355 reviewsINYO
Quick Facts
7,000 ftPrice
$33/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
34 campsites
Season
The campground typic...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,000 ftPrice
$33/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
34 campsites
Season
The campground typic...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsTuff Campground
$33.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees are $33 per night during peak season. Additional reservation fees apply, including $8 online, $9 via the contact center, and $3 in...
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Standard Site Fee$33.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$33.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider760-935-4026
What Campers Say
4.43
Recommended
Based on 55 reviews
71 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanshadewell-maintained
Some mention
noiseroad noise
"User reviews for Tuff Campground are generally positive, with an average sentiment score of 4.25. Highlights include the campground's cleanliness, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and the relaxing environment provided by Rock Creek."
Fees & Passes at Tuff Campground
$33/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Visitors can stay for up to 14 consecutive nights.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made anytime before the date of scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee a...
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 Tuff Campground
The high-country climate here dances between extremes, offering sun-drenched summer days that give way to refreshingly cool nights perfect for sleeping under the stars. Early season adventurers should come prepared for spring's whimsical moods—snow may dust the landscape well into May, adding an unexpected touch of winter magic. The mountain winds that sweep through the sagebrush create nature's own soundtrack, occasionally joined by the distant hum of Highway 395, a gentle reminder of civilization's proximity. Each season paints the landscape in different hues, from spring's tender greens to autumn's golden aspens.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
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: April 25, 2025 - October 25, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground typically opens the last weekend in April and closes in October, depending on weather conditions.
- Current Alerts: Fire restrictions can occur based on weather conditions.
About Tuff Campground
Nestled along the babbling waters of Rock Creek in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Tuff Campground offers a perfect balance of accessibility and mountain tranquility. This thoughtfully designed facility spreads across three distinct loops, where gravel roads wind between level tent sites that make setting up camp a breeze. Each site comes equipped with its own shaded picnic table—a welcome respite from the mountain sun—along with a fire ring featuring an adjustable grill for those memorable campfire meals. Secure bear boxes protect your provisions, while conveniently placed water spigots mean you're never far from fresh water. The immaculately maintained vault toilets have earned consistent praise from visitors, proving that roughing it doesn't mean sacrificing cleanliness.
Tuff Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, including tent camping, small RVs, and group camping. The first 10 campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while the rest are reservable.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsThe high-country climate here dances between extremes, offering sun-drenched summer days that give way to refreshingly cool nights perfect for sleeping under the stars. Early season adventurers should come prepared for spring's whimsical moods—snow may dust the landscape well into May, adding an unexpected touch of winter magic. The mountain winds that sweep through the sagebrush create nature's own soundtrack, occasionally joined by the distant hum of Highway 395, a gentle reminder of civilization's proximity. Each season paints the landscape in different hues, from spring's tender greens to autumn's golden aspens.
ElevationPerched at 7,000 feet, Tuff Campground holds the distinction of being one of the region's more accessible high-country destinations. This strategic elevation places it below many neighboring campgrounds, making it a coveted early-season basecamp when higher elevations remain locked in winter's grip. Here, you'll find that sweet spot where mountain air invigorates without leaving you breathless, and where spring arrives weeks earlier than at loftier locations.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground takes its name from the dramatic volcanic tuff formations that rise like ancient sentinels around the site, their weathered faces telling stories of the Sierra's fiery past. This unique geological canvas creates a stunning backdrop where rugged sagebrush meadows meet groves of quaking aspens, stately cottonwoods, and aromatic Jeffrey pines. Rock Creek threads through it all, its melodic waters providing a constant, soothing soundtrack to your stay. Keep your camera ready—this diverse habitat attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters, from lumbering black bears and elusive mountain lions to graceful mule deer and a colorful variety of mountain birds that fill the air with their songs.
Geological RegionTuff Campground sits within the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, where ancient volcanic forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable contrasts. The distinctive volcanic tuff formations that give the campground its name create a dramatic geological tapestry, their buff-colored cliffs and spires rising above a classic high-desert ecosystem. Here, aromatic sagebrush carpets the open spaces between groves of aspens that shimmer in the breeze, towering cottonwoods that mark the creek's path, and stately Jeffrey pines that perfume the air with their butterscotch-scented bark. This unique meeting of volcanic geology and diverse plant communities creates a camping experience found nowhere else in the Sierra.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details about accessibility features for those with disabilities have been provided.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating both tents and small RVs. Larger vehicles, such as a 44-foot Class A RV, have also been reported as fitting comfortably in some sites.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as offering moderate privacy, with some sites being more secluded than others. However, road noise from Highway 395 can be a concern for sites closer to the highway.
Total Campsites34 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor quieter sites, avoid Loop 3 near Highway 395. For creek-side ambiance, opt for Loop 3.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by checkout time (noon) the day following arrival.
Check-out
Noon
Stay Limit
Visitors can stay for up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is spread across three loops with gravel roads and well-maintained vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground typically opens the last weekend in April and closes in October, depending on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe first 10 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the date of scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and possible forfeiture of first night's fees for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Tuff Campground provides a range of recreational activities that include fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The creek running through the campground adds to the charm, and its proximity to nearby lakes makes it a favorable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant in the surrounding Rock Creek area, with trails offering options from easy to challenging levels. Hikes in the region provide scenic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, volcanic rock formations, and diverse wildlife.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity here, with Rock Creek and nearby lakes offering catches of brook, brown, rainbow, and stocked Alpers trout. Some users noted fluctuating fishing conditions, citing reasons such as overfishing or seasonal changes.Swimming
Swimming areas are available along Rock Creek, providing a refreshing option for visitors during warmer months.Biking
The area's trails also cater to mountain bikers, with challenging terrains and beautiful landscapes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, pine martens, and various bird species, offering excellent viewing opportunities for nature lovers.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are directly associated with the campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as part of Tuff Campground's activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during hot, dry weather. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are After 10 PM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters with black bears and mountain lions are noted. Camping at high elevation requires caution for travelers transitioning from lower elevations.
Active alertsFire restrictions can occur based on weather conditions.
Weather at Tuff Campground
30
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25, 2025 - October 25, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but they are located only at the campground entrance. Some users noted inconvenience in having to travel to the entrance to dispose of trash.
Proximity to water featuresRock Creek, Crawley Lake, and Rock Creek Lake are near the campground.
Common complaintsSome campers noted road noise from Highway 395 and limited shade at certain campsites. Fishing conditions were reported to vary due to hatchery issues.
HostCamp hosts like David Mac and Bob are frequently mentioned in user reviews for their friendliness and upkeep of the campground.
Campground Map
INYO
Driving directionsFrom Mammoth Lakes or Bishop, California: Take U.S. Highway 395 to the Owens Gorge Road exit at Tom's Place (25 miles north of Bishop and 13 miles south of Mammoth Lakes). Drive 200 yards east to the gravel road and continue north a short distance to the campground along Rock Creek. Follow signs.
The campground is accessible via U.S. Highway 395, and the road to the campground is gravel but convenient for trailers and RVs. High elevation warnings are noted for travelers coming from lower elevations. Road noise may be an issue due to proximity to Highway 395.Nearby places
Bishop (25 miles), Mammoth Lakes (13 miles)
Nearby supplies
Tom's Place within a mile offers fee showers, firewood, and other camping supplies.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
55 reviews
Tuff Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Tuff Campground are generally positive, with an average sentiment score of 4.25. Highlights include the campground's cleanliness, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and the relaxing environment provided by Rock Creek.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, well-maintained facilities, hospitable camp hosts, shaded picnic tables at each site, and availability of firewood for purchase. Visitors also appreciated the proximity to Rock...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Proximity to Highway 395 causes road noise for some sites, limited shade at certain locations, and the inconvenience of a single trash disposal point at the entrance.
Based on 55 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs if sensitive to road noise. For better privacy and reduced road noise, choose sites in the first or second loop. Utilize bear-proof storage lockers effectively to avoid wildlife...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are favorite times to visit due to cooler temperatures and fewer insects. Some users note fishing conditions as hit-or-miss during the summer.
Based on 55 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Some of the cleanest camping bathrooms I’ve ever seen.' - Elijah Zuniga. 2. 'The creek is so pretty, with lots of places to sit near it.' - Sanaz S. 3. 'Great place for a limited stay; the river...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Many users praised specific sites like Site 29 for its grassy area beside the creek, and Site 14 for accommodating a 29-foot trailer. Sites close to the creek provide soothing water sounds but may be...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific user feedback on accessibility features was provided.
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with a two-pet limit per site. Reviews did not detail specific pet-related facilities or challenges.
Based on 55 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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