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Inyo/Old Shady Rest
Overview
Inyo/Old Shady Rest Campground provides a classic alpine retreat nestled within a dense forest of Jeffrey pines. Located in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, this US Forest Service facility offers a rustic camping environment that perfectly balances natural seclusion with town convenience. It serves as an ideal Eastern Sierra basecamp for travelers who want to immerse themselves in nature while remaining within minutes of local services and supplies.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is situated at an elevation of nearly 7,800 feet, ensuring crisp mountain air and a cool, shaded environment even during the peak summer months. Its unique position within the town limits of Mammoth Lakes allows for a rare combination of a deep-woods atmosphere and urban accessibility. Guests are surrounded by volcanic ridges and are only a short distance from the scenic paved paths that weave throughout the valley floor.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional forest service site, this park focuses on the essentials rather than luxury. It offers no hookups, making it a favorite for those with self-contained rigs or those prepared for a boondocking experience. The park features paved pads, flush toilets, and seasonal drinking water. Every site is equipped with a bear-resistant food locker, which is a critical feature for safety in this active wildlife corridor. A dump station is conveniently located nearby to service departing RVs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The location is a gateway to the Mammoth Lakes Basin, where visitors can enjoy world-class trout fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking at Lake Mary. A short shuttle ride leads to the stunning Devils Postpile National Monument and the majestic 101-foot Rainbow Falls. For those who prefer exploring on two wheels, the campground provides immediate access to the town bike loop, which connects various local shops, breweries, and trailheads throughout the area.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is perfectly suited for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize scenery and location over resort-style amenities. It is an excellent choice for mountain bikers and hikers who want to be at the center of the action without the noise of a commercial park. Because it lacks power and water at the sites, it is best for travelers comfortable with dry camping who value the peace and quiet of a forested mountain setting.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Dyerdog
Great place to camp, water is in the campground, but not at the campsites. Water is located near about every four sites. Big pine tree, flush toilets and clean. Cell service is good.
Alex Neumann
Even though you’re literally minutes walking from town, it feels like you’re outside. Nice sites with running water in the bathrooms
Natascha Garcia
First time here and we loved it. The bathrooms are kept pretty clean and so is the site. It was quiet and the host (the guy) didn’t get his name was very accommodating !
Alex Belzer
I love camping. Reconnecting with the quiet solitude of nature to fully relax and disconnect from city life is truly magical... however being woken up by pounding live rock music at 11:30 PM for two nights in a row is kinda harshing my vibe. I can't advise anyone camp here unless they plan to be out til 2 AM partying... for everyone else, there's got to be better places in Mammoth. And there are absolutely better places in California. Will be returning to work next week even more tired and burnt out than before. It's a shame because the grounds themselves are really nice.
Karen Cunningham
Loved this campground! We stayed for 10 days and still did not get to see or visit all the places we wanted to. Amazing Camp Host , Mike and Trudy answered every question with kindness, helped in directing us to some of the best trails, restaurants and more. Clean restrooms, dog friendly, fire pit, picnic table, good size bear box, hiking trails right out your door, shopping near by. We will defiantly be back.