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Inyo/Upper Grays Meadow
Overview
Overview
Upper Grays Meadow is a serene, high-altitude campground nestled within the shadows of the Eastern Sierra. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this site offers a rustic, back-to-nature escape for those looking to disconnect from the noise of modern life. It serves as a gateway to the dramatic wilderness of the Inyo National Forest, providing a quiet basecamp surrounded by towering lodgepole pines and the soothing sound of nearby bubbling streams.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just west of Independence, California, this campground is tucked away in the Grays Meadow area. The elevation provides a much-needed respite from the desert heat of the Owens Valley floor. The surroundings are defined by dramatic mountain peaks and dense forest cover, creating a secluded atmosphere. Access is via a winding mountain road that showcases the rugged topography and immense beauty of the Sierra Nevada range, perfect for those seeking true wilderness tranquility.
Amenities & Park Features
As a forest service facility, Upper Grays Meadow emphasizes simplicity over resort-style luxury. The campground features vault toilets and potable water, making it suitable for self-contained RVs and travel trailers. Each site is equipped with a fire ring and picnic table, ideal for evening gatherings under the stars. The park offers shaded, spacious sites that cater to campers who prioritize natural beauty and peaceful surroundings over high-tech amenities or complex electrical hookups.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors often head to the nearby Onion Valley trailhead, which provides access to world-class hiking and alpine lakes, including the iconic Kearsarge Pass. History buffs will appreciate the proximity to the Manzanar National Historic Site, which offers a poignant look into the past. Fishing in local creeks and wildlife photography are also popular pastimes, thanks to the abundant natural scenery found throughout the Inyo National Forest.
Who This Park Is Best For
Upper Grays Meadow is ideal for off-grid enthusiasts and mountain lovers who prefer a quiet, rustic camping experience. It is perfectly suited for those with smaller to mid-sized RVs who want to wake up deep in the forest rather than at a crowded commercial park. If you appreciate stunning alpine scenery and are looking for a peaceful basecamp to explore the Eastern Sierra, this location offers an authentic, memorable mountain getaway.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Certified Floor Covering And Tile Design
An amazing place and if you’re lucky enough there’s plenty of sites with the creek right behind you where you can take a dip in the river
David Smith
Beautiful campgrounds water is running a little slow this time in July but other than that, it’s a nice place to take the wife and kids
Beverley Woodworth
Sometimes it is not just clean bathrooms that can make a stay at a campground enjoyable. After chatting with Brianna and her husband, I realized how lucky I was to have finally met truly friendly and helpful camp hosts. I’m spoiled now tho and want to clone them to take with me to every campground I’m going to next! Fun, good people who clearly love what they do. They take great care of the campsite too, as other commenters have mentioned. Do yourself a favor and go say hi to them at the camp host site when you are there. I highly recommend them and the campground.
Beatriz Viveros
I’ve been coming here with my family for the past few years and it’s always a great memorable experience. Restrooms are always clean and satisfactory. Hiking trails are close by but you have to drive up the mountain.
Joe Traveler
Note there's a lower and upper Grays Meadows campgrounds. Upper has a bit more tree coverage and larger pools of creek water. There was no upper camp host. The west section of upper has a very tight narrow turn around so walk in first if you have an over 20ft trailer or RV. The east side has better access for even 30ft+ units. A step up from independence creek CG but still nothing compared to the BIG trees and alpine stream campgrounds up the mountain near Whitney Portal.