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Inyo/Upper Sage
Overview
Inyo National Forest offers a serene escape at Upper Sage Flat Campground, nestled along the North Fork of Big Pine Creek. Situated in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this rustic forest service site provides a tranquil environment for campers looking to disconnect from the modern world. It is a primitive destination that emphasizes the natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra rather than modern luxury. Visitors often use this site as a scenic base camp for exploring the high-altitude wonders of Inyo County.
Location & Surroundings
The park is located at an elevation of approximately 7,400 feet, offering crisp mountain air and relief from the valley heat during the summer months. Accessible via Glacier Lodge Road west of Big Pine, California, the site is surrounded by majestic Jeffrey pines and dramatic granite peaks. The proximity to Big Pine Creek means the sound of rushing water is a constant companion, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for those seeking a true wilderness experience within reach of their vehicle.
Amenities & Park Features
As a National Forest campground, Upper Sage Flat prioritizes conservation and a natural aesthetic. Guests will find standard vault toilets and seasonal potable water stations. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, along with mandatory bear-resistant food lockers to ensure safety for both campers and local wildlife. There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available, making it essential for RVers to arrive with full fresh water tanks and sufficient battery power for a dry camping stay.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw for visitors is the proximity to the Big Pine Lakes Trail, which leads hikers to stunning turquoise alpine waters and the famous Palisade Glacier. Anglers frequently visit the nearby creek for trout fishing, while photographers enjoy the morning light hitting the Temple Crag. For a change of pace, the town of Big Pine is just a short drive down the canyon, offering a gateway to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and various historical markers throughout the Owens Valley.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers who prefer a quiet, natural setting over a commercial RV resort. Because the access roads and sites are somewhat narrow with limited turning radii, it is best suited for small to mid-sized RVs, camper vans, or truck campers. It is the perfect choice for travelers who value direct trail access and mountain solitude, providing a rugged yet rewarding home base for exploring the high-elevation backcountry of California.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Alfonso Hernandez
Great home base to explore big pine Lakes. We camped at campsite 16. Wonderful site away from the smelly restroom and close to the creek. Ate like a king slept like a baby
Kurtis Ostrom
This campground is fine. The sites are small and really close together. Not a lot of privacy. The sites are also very rocky and it’s hard to find level spots for tents. The bathroom was pretty well maintained and there is a fresh water spigot you can use. It’s a great spot for a short stay if you’re planning on doing some hiking nearby.
Tim Anderson
Everything was great except the fire pit. It is so tall that cooking food over the fire requires a ton of wood. I stacked rocks and boulders in the pit so I wouldn’t have to use so much wood.
August Young
Wonderful location. Quiet and near the Big Pine Lakes trailhead.
JNM
Nice camp ground. The bathroom is super clean which is a plus. Another plus is a gallon of water placed in the bear box to put off the pit fire.