How much does camping cost at Upper Soda Springs Campground?

Camping fees at Upper Soda Springs Campground range from $23-$32/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Upper Soda Springs Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Upper Soda Springs Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are exclusively first-come, first-served, no reservations allowed.

What is the best time to visit Upper Soda Springs Campground?

Upper Soda Springs Campground is open June through September. 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 Upper Soda Springs Campground?

Upper Soda Springs Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Upper Soda Springs Campground?

Fire policies at Upper Soda Springs Campground: Information on fire usage is not explicitly mentioned.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Upper Soda Springs Campground have?

Upper Soda Springs Campground has 28 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Upper Soda Springs Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Upper Soda Springs Campground. 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 Upper Soda Springs Campground?

Upper Soda Springs Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Upper Soda Springs Campground?

Popular activities at Upper Soda Springs Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Upper Soda Springs Campground

4.69

65 reviews

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Top 3% in CASummer

Scenic Views

Featured in:Camping Near Yosemite National Park#2 Pet-Friendly Campgrounds California Family-Friendly Campgrounds California

Quick Facts

7,600 ft

Price

$23 - $32/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,600 ft

Price

$23 - $32/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Upper Soda Springs Campground

$23.00 - $32.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single Site: $32 per night Additional Vehicle Fee: $10 per vehicle per night

Standard Site Fee$32.00

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USFS

Provider

(760) 924-5500

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Upper Soda Springs Campground

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nearby places

Mammoth Lakes (approx. 17 miles, 30 min drive)

Nearby supplies

Limited groceries, camping supplies, horseback riding, and activities available at nearby Reds Meadow Pack Station and Resort. Larger supply options are available in Mammoth Lakes.

Driving directionsTake US 395 to State Highway 203. Head west to and through the town of Mammoth Lakes. At the 2nd traffic light, turn right onto Minaret and continue up the mountain past Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge and Minaret Vista Station. At intersection of State Rt. 203 (Main St.), Minaret Rd, and Lake Mary Rd, take Rt. 203 west about 6 miles to the Minaret Vista entrance booth where a fee is paid. Continue through the booth on Rt. 203 for another 10.7 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign and go 0.2 miles to campground.

The road narrows to a single lane with turnouts and includes steep and curvy stretches for 2.3 miles after the Vista booth. It widens back to two lanes thereafter. Accessible only in summer due to seasonal closures.

Weather at Upper Soda Springs Campground

Current alerts(1)

Historically, there has been a high level of bear activity at Upper Soda Springs Campground. A bear-proof locker is located at each site at Upper Soda Springs Campground. All food and scented items must be stored in the lockers.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Soda Springs Campground

Summer brings daytime highs between 60 and 80°F, with nights dropping into the 30s and 40s. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible. The campground opens when snow clears in mid-June and closes in early September. Reviewers mention cold overnight temperatures, especially in the canyon's cooler pockets. Mosquitoes appear during wet years. Dust rises from dirt roads when conditions are dry. Weekends fill up quickly during peak season, so book early.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 3% in CA

Peak season (mid-June–Sept); ideal temps, trail and fishing access; reviews favor summer visits.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June through September. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from June 8 through September 11.

About Upper Soda Springs Campground

Upper Soda Springs sits in Reds Meadow Valley at 7,600 feet, where the San Joaquin River runs through 28 tent-only sites. The campground costs $23-32 per night and operates mid-June through early September. Each site has a bear locker, fire ring, and picnic table. Camp host Gary earns consistent praise for keeping facilities clean and offering helpful advice.

The campground offers standard tent and combined camping sites. RV camping is not recommended due to the narrow roads and irregular parking aprons.

Historical Significance

The Pacific Crest Trail passes near the campground. Devil's Postpile National Monument, a formation of columnar basalt created by ancient lava flows, sits close enough for a day hike.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs between 60 and 80°F, with nights dropping into the 30s and 40s. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible. The campground opens when snow clears in mid-June and closes in early September. Reviewers mention cold overnight temperatures, especially in the canyon's cooler pockets. Mosquitoes appear during wet years. Dust rises from dirt roads when conditions are dry. Weekends fill up quickly during peak season, so book early.

ElevationPerched at 7,600 feet in the Sierra Nevada, this high-altitude haven offers the rare combination of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. The elevation gifts visitors with refreshingly cool summer temperatures and star-filled nights of exceptional clarity, though it also means the campground surrenders to deep snows each winter, closing its gates until the mountain thaw returns each spring.

Natural Features and SceneryLodgepole pines shade most sites, their straight trunks filtering light onto a floor of forest duff and exposed volcanic rock. The San Joaquin River cuts through the campground, close enough that riverside sites catch the constant sound of moving water. Bare rock faces rise beyond the trees to the east. The campground sits within the Ansel Adams Wilderness boundary, surrounded by terrain shaped by old lava flows and glacial carving. Sites near the river have lush ground cover. Sites backing against rocky slopes have less vegetation but open views toward the ridgeline.

Geological RegionUpper Soda Springs rests within the embrace of Inyo National Forest's Reds Meadow Valley, a geological wonderland where the San Joaquin River has carved its path through ancient volcanic terrain. Surrounded by the pristine Ansel Adams Wilderness, the campground serves as your basecamp for exploring a landscape sculpted by fire and ice. Towering lodgepole pine forests give way to dramatic bare-rock faces, creating a diverse ecosystem where the forces that shaped the Sierra Nevada remain visible in every vista.

Scenic ViewsCampground offers riverfront views and is nestled in a pine grove with scenic vistas of the surrounding wilderness. Some sites have unobstructed views of bare rock walls.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo lodging accommodations, such as hotels, are available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no explicit mention of cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Unspecified.

Check-out

Unspecified.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests allowed per site is unclear
no explicit information provided.

Groups

No designated group camping sites are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground has two loops and a spur. Sites are well spaced, with pines providing natural screening at most spots. Riverfront sites fill first. Others back against rocky terrain with less tree cover.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilitySites are exclusively first-come, first-served, no reservations allowed.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not explicitly mentioned.

AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available. Specific accessibility details for camping sites are not mentioned.

Site SizeSome campsites are spacious; one user noted, 'Our campsite was huge and quiet.

PrivacyCampsites offer a mix of privacy levels, with many shaded by lodgepole pines. One reviewer mentioned, 'The campsites are well spaced and most are shaded by the trees which also provide a nice bit of privacy.

Total Campsites28 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose riverfront sites for better views and access to water features. Rock-wall sites may have less shade and privacy.

Best CampsitesRiverside sites get the most requests for their water views and the sound of the San Joaquin River. One reviewer called their site huge and quiet. Sites shaded by pines offer better privacy than those on open, rocky ground.

Amenities available

Upper Soda Springs Campground offers basic amenities designed to enhance the camping experience. Restrooms and potable water are available on-site, and each campsite is equipped with picnic tables and grills. Bear-proof lockers are provided at each site to ensure food safety in a high bear-activity area. According to user reviews, 'pit toilets are very clean' and 'restrooms are spotless with no trash.'

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Upper Soda Springs Campground offers access to a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The proximity to the San Joaquin River and trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail make it an ideal place for outdoor adventures.

Hiking

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsActive bear area; proper food storage is mandatory. The single-lane road with steep and curvy stretches can be challenging for some drivers.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at the campground.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are provided at most sites and measure approximately 48"x30"x36".

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyInformation on fire usage is not explicitly mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesMammoth Lakes Welcome Center, 2510 Hwy 203, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, Phone: (760) 924-5500, Hours: Daily, 8:00am-5:00pm (Closed on federal holidays)

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are provided, ensuring safety and garbage containment. Users remarked positively about the cleanliness of the site, including waste disposal areas.

Water FeaturesLocated adjacent to the San Joaquin River; sites near the river offer direct access.

Camp HostGary, the camp host, is widely praised for his attentive service and friendly demeanor. He ensures clean facilities and provides helpful information about the area. His dog, Dr. Zeus, is also mentioned as a welcoming companion.

Cell CoverageSome user reviews mention limited cell phone service. For instance, 'scrambled up the nearby escarpment and was able to get 1-2 bars of cell service.'

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.7

65 reviews

Top-Rated

Upper Soda Springs Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the attentiveness of the camp host Gary, and the natural beauty of the campground. Many highlight the serene environment and proximity to trails and fishing areas.

Review Summaries

Based on 65 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviews frequently mention clean pit toilets, shaded campsites, and great hiking and fishing opportunities. The camp host Gary is described as 'friendly,' 'helpful,' and 'engaging,' often going out...

Based on 65 reviews

Common Concerns

Some concerns include dust and mosquitoes, as well as occasional noise from neighboring campers, though these issues are promptly addressed by the camp host.

Based on 65 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites near the river are particularly praised for their serenity and proximity to scenic views. Those backing up to the bare-faced rock wall are noted for having less shade. Specific site numbers are...

Based on 65 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent and being prepared for cold overnight temperatures due to the campground's location in a canyon. Many also advise interacting with the camp host for...

Based on 65 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Most reviews highlight the summer season as ideal due to the campground's accessibility and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby attractions.

Based on 65 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Devil's Postpile and Rainbow Falls are easy hikes and just down the road." "The pit toilets are the cleanest ones I've ever seen." "Gary, the camp host, was very welcoming and fun to talk to."...

Based on 65 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available, but there are no detailed reviews specific to accessibility features.

Based on 65 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed in all developed recreation sites. User reviews express satisfaction with the pet-friendly policies, noting that the campground is 'perfect for adults, kids, and...

Based on 65 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Trout anglers and PCT hikers who can arrive mid-week early in the season will find riverside sites with running water outside the tent door, genuine bear country character, and easy day hikes to Devil's Postpile and Rainbow Falls.

Skip if

No reservations and peak weekends fill fast, so anyone with a fixed Friday arrival and no flexibility will likely strike out on the riverfront spots, and RVs aren't permitted at any site.

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Pumice Flat Group Camp sits at 7,700 feet in Inyo National Forest, minutes from Mammoth Lakes and the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. Operated by Vista Recreation, this alpine group campground serves as a base for high-country fishing and trail access. Sites include vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables, with pets welcome throughout the season.

Upper Soda Springs Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Upper Soda Springs Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Upper Soda Springs Campground

Current alerts(1)

Best Time to Camp at Upper Soda Springs Campground

Planning Tips

About Upper Soda Springs Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to Upper Soda Springs Campground

Current alerts(1)

Best Time to Camp at Upper Soda Springs Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews