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Inyo/Lake Mary
Overview
Lake Mary Campground offers a premier high-altitude escape within the Inyo National Forest. Situated at an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet, this destination provides a classic mountain experience for RVers looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Eastern Sierra. It is the largest campground in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, effectively blending deep forest serenity with immediate access to one of the region's most iconic and productive alpine lakes.
Location & Surroundings
The park is nestled along the northern shores of Lake Mary, surrounded by towering lodgepole pines and dramatic granite peaks. The landscape is defined by the striking silhouette of Crystal Crag, which looms over the water, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views. Its high-elevation location provides a much cooler climate during the summer months, making it a highly sought-after retreat for travelers escaping the intense heat of the lower California valleys.
Amenities & Park Features
As a Forest Service site, the experience here is focused on nature rather than modern luxury. RVers should be prepared for a dry camping experience as there are no hookups provided at the individual sites. However, the park is well-maintained with essential features designed for the mountain environment:
- Bear-proof food lockers are provided at every campsite for mandatory storage.
- Access to potable drinking water and clean vault toilets.
- Paved parking spurs, picnic tables, and campfire rings.
The layout is designed to preserve the natural forest canopy, offering a sense of privacy between sites while remaining accessible for many mid-sized rigs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw, with trout fishing and boating being the top priorities for most visitors. The nearby Lake Mary Marina offers rentals for those wanting to explore the water or pick up supplies. Hikers can easily access the Duck Pass Trail, which leads into the spectacular John Muir Wilderness, while the nearby town of Mammoth Lakes provides convenient access to local dining, breweries, and mountain biking trails at the resort.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for self-contained RVers who prioritize scenery and direct outdoor access over resort-style amenities. If you enjoy waking up to crisp mountain air and don't mind dry camping in a forest setting, you will find this to be a perfect basecamp. It is particularly well-suited for photographers, serious anglers, and families looking to unplug and connect with the majestic landscape of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Michael Bourland (Coach Michael)
As with far too many campgrounds, your elbow to elbow with your neighbors. Toilet and sinks were clean. Unfortunately, though they have the ability, they don’t have any showers. If all you want is to be outdoors and near the lake it works.
Hazel Groff
We booked a first come first serve campground for two nights mid week a while back. Both of the camp hosts we talked to were super sweet and made booking nice and quick! Karen and LaDonna were both very helpful at booking quickly and were excellent camp hosts. All of the facilities were clean and well kept and they ensured no one got too rowdy in the evening. Great campsite for a midweek getaway!
Red Sky Przygody
This campground has a beautiful lake, but the campsites are close to the noisy road, and is infested with chiggers. My Friends and I stayed overnight and have been dealing with chigger bites ever since. If you want to go enjoy the lake I recommend it, but as far as camping I would go somewhere else.
Miriam Velazquez
Booked site 043 for a weekend. This site was nicely leveled, close to water and restroom, but there was no privacy. Fortunately, we had great neighbors and quiet hours were respected. Camp host was very attentive, nice and kept the restrooms clean.
Nicola Cristine
This reservation was made at the last minute, and upon arrival, I was underwhelmed. The size of this campground is insufficient to be considered a proper campground. If you are seeking a secluded camping experience, this location is not suitable. Campers are situated in close proximity to one another. The site I reserved was number 011, and it is directly adjacent to another camper. Our bear box is literally side by side with the neighboring camper's bear box. If the owner intends to continue operating this as a campground, they should significantly reduce the number of available sites. The only positive aspect I can mention is the proximity to the water. They also offer boat and kayak rentals. Additionally, the caretakers are diligent in maintaining the restrooms, patrolling the area, and educating campers about bears and the proper use of bear boxes.