Upper Pine Grove Campground

Star3.63
6 reviews
Rock Creek Rd, Inyo National Forest, CA

Quick Facts

9,400 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Operating season is ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Inyo National Forest Service site

Official Website
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Upper Pine Grove Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Single campsite reservations cost $35 per night. Additional vehicles incur a fee of $10 per night. America the Beautiful Access and Senior Pass...
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Standard Site Fee$35.00
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) 873-2500null
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What Campers Say

3.63

Mixed Reviews

Based on 6 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeacefulcleanwell-maintained

"Users generally appreciate the campground for its cleanliness and quiet atmosphere. The proximity to Rock Creek and Rock Creek Lake is a highlight, though concerns over steep driveway access and active bear activity were noted."

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Campground Map

Rock Creek Rd, Inyo National Forest, CA

Upper Pine Grove Campground

Rock Creek Rd, Inyo National Forest, CA

Driving directionsFrom Bishop take US Hwy 395 north to Tom's Place. Or, from Mammoth Lakes go south on 395 to Tom's Place. Turn west on Rock Creek Lake Rd and go approximately 8 miles to the campground on the left.
The driveway into the campground may be steep, rutted, and contain potholes, potentially posing challenges for vehicles. Roads leading to the campground are accessible and paved.
Nearby places
Bishop (approx. 35 miles), Mammoth Lakes (approx. 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping equipment can be found in Bishop or Mammoth Lakes. Rock Creek Lodge nearby may offer limited camping essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Pine Grove Campground

Summer transforms Upper Pine Grove into a cool mountain sanctuary, with crisp mornings starting around 35°F before warming to pleasant 70°F afternoons—perfect for escaping the valley heat below. As autumn arrives, the campground becomes a front-row seat to nature's grand finale, though early snow may dust the pines. Winter blankets the area in deep snow, creating a wonderland accessible only to the most adventurous souls. Spring visitors should come prepared for lingering snowpack and the dramatic daily temperature swings that define life at altitude.

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

Summer described as cool (35°F mornings to ~70°F afternoons) and ideal to escape valley heat.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Campground open through Oct 5; fall likely nice but specific fall conditions not detailed.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 16; late-spring conditions possible but specifics not provided.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed outside May 16–Oct 5; winter camping not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 16 - October 5, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Operating season is May 16 - October 5, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Closed pending installation of a new restroom facility.

About Upper Pine Grove Campground

Nestled beneath a canopy of towering Jeffrey Pines, Upper Pine Grove Campground offers an intimate mountain retreat with just 8 secluded campsites. This hidden gem sits alongside the crystal-clear waters of Rock Creek, where the gentle murmur of flowing water creates a natural soundtrack for your alpine adventure. Several sites feature level, pine-needle-carpeted grounds that welcome campers of all abilities, while the proximity to Rock Creek Lake promises endless opportunities for exploration and reflection.
The campground accommodates various types of camping, including tent and RV camping, at its 9 campsites. Sites are first come, first served.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Unspecified.
Check-out
Unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive days.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Upper Pine Grove Campground offers access to nearby outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Rock Creek and the trail to Rock Creek Lake enhances the outdoor experience.
HikingNearby trails lead to Rock Creek and Rock Creek Lake, offering opportunities for exploration. Specific trail lengths and difficulty levels are not detailed in the source.
Wildlife viewingThe area is an active bear region. A user review mentions a bear encountered at a campsite, emphasizing the importance of securing food. Other wildlife species are not specified.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsActive bear area necessitates strict food storage and campsite cleanliness. Driveway conditions may include steep inclines and potholes.
Active AlertsClosed pending installation of a new restroom facility.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are provided at each site (size: 48" x 30" x 36") and must be used due to active bear presence.

Weather at Upper Pine Grove Campground

Reviews

3.6
6 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Upper Pine Grove Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the campground for its cleanliness and quiet atmosphere. The proximity to Rock Creek and Rock Creek Lake is a highlight, though concerns over steep driveway access and active bear activity were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean pit toilets, well-maintained campsites with enough space for RVs up to 24 feet, and a peaceful environment. 'Very clean and quiet. Albert runs a great camp!'
Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

The steep driveway into the campground may be difficult to navigate, and the area is prone to bear activity. A user mentioned, 'Beware the steeper driveway into the campground; passable but may be...
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Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to secure food in bear boxes at all times and to be cautious of the steep driveway. The campground is suitable for smaller RVs and trailers due to space constraints.
Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is operational only in the summer season (May 16 - October 5), with no user reviews explicitly mentioning seasonal differences.
Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Pit toilets were clean. Water spigot with threaded nozzle in the middle of the campground near toilets.' 2. 'Very clean and quiet. Albert runs a great camp!' 3. 'Beware the bears. Baby bear...
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Based on 6 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews are limited, but users noted that 'many of the campsites are well-groomed with plenty of space for a 24-foot trailer, 5th, or RV.'
Based on 6 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some sites are flat for easier access, though no additional ADA-compliant features are mentioned.
Based on 6 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed in all developed recreation areas.
Based on 6 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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