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Inyo/Convict Lake
Overview
Escape to Convict Lake Campground, a premier destination in the Inyo National Forest located near Mammoth Lakes, CA. Situated at an elevation of 7,850 feet, this park is defined by its spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It offers an authentic outdoor experience where the focus remains on the surrounding natural landscape and the serene atmosphere of the high desert alpine environment. The park is widely recognized for its deep blue waters and the striking contrast of the surrounding granite peaks.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is nestled within a dramatic canyon at the base of Mount Morrison, one of the most photographed peaks in the Eastern Sierra. Its location provides a unique transition between the high sagebrush plains and the rugged mountain heights. Being just a few miles from Highway 395, it serves as a convenient yet secluded basecamp for exploring Mono County. The area is particularly famous for its brilliant aspen groves that draw visitors from all over the country during the autumn season.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a traditional forest service site designed for a rustic experience. The park features paved camping pads that can accommodate various RV sizes, though travelers should always verify specific site lengths before arrival. Facilities are kept clean and functional to ensure a comfortable stay. Key features include:
- Flush toilets and piped drinking water available during the summer season.
- Individual campsites equipped with a fire ring and picnic table.
- Bear-resistant food storage lockers provided at every site for safety.
Please note that there are no hookups or dump stations available within the campground itself, requiring RVers to be self-contained during their visit.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless activities centered around the lake, which is famous for its world-class trout fishing and marina rentals. The Convict Lake Loop Trail offers an accessible three-mile hike with breathtaking views of the water and unique geology. The Convict Lake Resort, located just a short walk from the campground, provides additional services including a general store and a high-end restaurant. For more adventure, Mammoth Mountain is only a short drive away for hiking and mountain biking.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is best suited for independent travelers who enjoy dry camping and want to be steps away from the wilderness. It is an ideal spot for anglers, hikers, and landscape photographers looking for a peaceful mountain getaway. It is a great fit for those who prefer the sounds of nature over the noise of a busy town. If you value spectacular sunrises and a quiet, dark-sky environment over resort-style amenities, this is the perfect Eastern Sierra destination for your RV stay.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Ashlie Grasa
There's a great variety of campsites depending on what you're looking for. You can't see the lake from the campsite, but you can easily see the mountains! The sites are gravelly so make sure you have some sort of pad or barrier between you and the ground. Some sites have good privacy and some do not. I would definitely stay here again!
Maggie Bingham
Such a great campground! The location, the bathrooms, the wildlife, all wonderful. Highly recommend
Jeffrey Rimando
This probably the best maintained campground Ive stayed at. Best views and best fishing so far IMO.
Magdalena Rawecka
This campground can be a five star if you are lucky enough to have the right campsite which was our case for the first 2 nights. We were close to the creek and somewhat to the side which was lovely. As it’s extremely difficult to book campsites even in advance during the busy period (we went in June) we had to book a different site for the remaining two nights. We actually decided to leave instead of moving to the new space as the other space was absolutely “unlivable”. Exposed, on the road, the worst spaces offered (there were a few of these) we’ve seen across our entire camping road trip across western USA. Also beware of the sun. You must have a shaded roof if you’re there in the summer. No shade anywhere. And the nearby lake is lovely indeed if you go off season. We did not take advantage of it at all because there were way too many people there. It was like an amusement park. Moreover, the campsite attendant was not friendly. Like he just didn’t care. While not really rude he definitely was not a people person so you’re wondering why he’s there (during the high season at least).
QueenJ316
It’s such a beautiful place to camp, to go for a nice hike and enjoy a cold plunge, camped there 2 nights so I got to see the beautiful sunset and sunrise. It gets really windy so a windproof tent or others would make your stay more pleasurable, no potable water so be prepared, clean restrooms at camp and decent size camping spots, lockers available for food since BEARS ARE ACTIVE IN THE AREA, be prepared for altitude sickness, wood available at the host site (very nice man) no trees for shade and can get really toasty but cold at night (sep 2024) tiny little store at resort and little phone service (I had 🦗@ the time and had service at the entrance) brought my paddle board and adventures (no wake lake) but boats can be rented too. Close to Mammoth and to hot springs. Make sure you completely out your fire (cold to touch) and pack your trash. High traffic during the day.