Mountain Camping in California

Mountain Camping in California

Discover the best mountain camping across California. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Year-round
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Whitney Portal
Star
4.6
(738)
Whitney Portal
Lone Pine
Inyo National Forest

Situated at 8,000 feet beneath the tallest peak in the lower 48 states, this Sierra Nevada campground places you at the doorstep of legendary alpine terrain where granite spires tower overhead. Towering pines frame jaw-dropping views of Mt.

Tents
RVs
2
Bishop Park Campground (Ca)
Star
4.8
(137)
Bishop Park Campground (Ca)
Bishop
Inyo National Forest

Granite peaks tower above this creek-side haven at 7,500 feet, where trail access leads directly to glacial alpine lakes and the dramatic spine of the Sierra Nevada.

Tents
RVs
3
Mount Rose (Nv)
Star
4.8
(110)
Mount Rose (Nv)
Reno
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Headquarters

Sitting at 9,300 feet on Mount Rose's western slope, this campground delivers sweeping Sierra Nevada vistas through a cathedral of lodgepole and Jeffrey pines.

Tents
RVs

About Mountain Camping in California

Mountain camping California offers some of the most spectacular alpine experiences in North America, from the towering granite peaks of the Eastern Sierra to the pristine high country of Yosemite. The Golden State's mountain campgrounds span elevations from 6,000 to over 9,000 feet, providing access to world-class wilderness areas, alpine lakes, and iconic summits including Mt.

Best Time

The prime season for mountain camping in California runs from late June through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather and full campground access. High-elevation campgrounds like Mount Rose and Tuolumne Meadows typically don't open until late June or early July due to lingering snowpack, while lower elevation sites around 6,000 feet may be accessible by late May.

Scenery Highlights

  • Stunning mountain panoramas
  • Cool alpine temperatures
  • Alpine lakes and meadows
  • World-class hiking trails

Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Mountain Camping in California

Map of campgrounds near Mountain Camping in California
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Map Key
1
Whitney Portal
2
Bishop Park Campground (Ca)
3
Mount Rose (Nv)
4
Lone Pine
5
Tuolumne Meadows Campground
6
Trumbull Lake
7
Convict Lake Campground
8
Big Pine Creek Campground
9
Upper Sage Flat
10
Onion Valley
11
Reds Meadow Campground
12
North Pines Campground
13
Cold Springs Campground (Ca)
14
Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)
15
Tioga Lake Campground
16
Girard Ridge Lookout
17
Paso Picacho & Cabins
18
Bear Basin Lookout And Cabin
19
Big Pine Canyon
20
Black Mountain Lookout
View all 20 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Mountaineering and peak baggingAlpine lake fishing for troutBackpacking into wilderness areasDay hiking to waterfalls and summitsWildlife photography and viewingRock climbing on granite formations

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve campsites exactly six months in advance through Recreation.gov for popular destinations like Whitney Portal and Tuolumne Meadows, as they fill within minutes of becoming available.
  • 2Pack layers including warm clothing and rain gear regardless of season, as mountain weather changes rapidly and temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from day to night.
  • 3Bring a quality four-season sleeping bag rated to at least 20°F for comfortable high-elevation camping.
  • 4Altitude sickness affects many visitors above 8,000 feet, so arrive a day early to acclimatize before strenuous activities and stay well-hydrated.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Mountain Camping in California

Mountain Camping in California FAQ

We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in California based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in California requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in California typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Availability Alerts

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