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New Shady Rest Campground
Overview
New Shady Rest Campground serves as a quintessential mountain getaway nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra. Managed by the Inyo National Forest, this site offers a rustic, forested retreat that immerses visitors in the natural beauty of Mammoth Lakes. It provides a peaceful base for those who prefer a traditional camping atmosphere over modern, full-service resorts. The grounds are characterized by towering Jeffrey pines and spacious sites that capture the true essence of mountain living.
Location & Surroundings
Situated within the town of Mammoth Lakes, California, New Shady Rest offers the rare convenience of being close to urban amenities while feeling completely isolated in the woods. The campground is located at a high elevation, providing easy access to the dramatic peaks of the Sierra Nevada. Visitors enjoy the fresh alpine air and the proximity to the bustling town center, which is just a short walk or drive away, making it a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts and explorers alike.
Amenities & Park Features
While this is a rustic forest service facility, it caters well to tent and RV travelers looking for a comfortable stay. The campground features vault toilets and drinking water stations throughout the loops to assist with basic needs. Each site is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table, perfect for evening campfires under the stars. Although there are no electrical or sewer hookups, the park is big-rig friendly, offering wide access roads that accommodate various vehicle sizes.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Adventure awaits right outside the campground entrance. Hikers and mountain bikers will appreciate the extensive trail systems that weave through the forest, connecting to popular spots like the Mammoth Lakes Basin. During the summer months, the free shuttle service provides convenient transportation to the Village and various trailheads. Visitors can also take a short trip to see the awe-inspiring Devils Postpile National Monument or spend a quiet afternoon fishing in the pristine nearby alpine lakes.
Who This Park Is Best For
New Shady Rest is ideal for nature lovers and families who prioritize a genuine outdoor experience. It is perfect for those who enjoy dry camping and want to be surrounded by nature without sacrificing access to town conveniences. If you appreciate a quiet, wooded setting and a base camp that puts you within minutes of world-class mountain recreation, this forest service campground will likely suit your travel style perfectly.
User Reviews
Priscilla Keith
Wonderful place, but I had a spot right across from a big group of really rude, obnoxious people who allowed their kids to invade all sites. Really people? Please use good camp etiquette. Thank you.
Bud v
This is an RV park. They actually had the week. End the week that I was there. Handicap waters gig Ed kayakid it was great. They take your kids out for a $150 a piece well worth the money. When I was there, the person was paraplegic.
Brian Karnofsky
Although not the Shady Rest from the old Beverly Hillbillies tv show, it’s a nice camp for tents or RVs. Full RV hookups. Highlight is the adjoining hiking trail. There is also a boat ramp Campsites are semi-private. There was no host or ranger. Book on Recreation.gov.
Jeff Meyer
A fine campground with a convenient location. We liked the size and spacing of the sites, the ample shade from pine trees and the friendly camp host selling firewood. There’s a great network of pedestrian/bike paths here and throughout Mammoth. There were a lot of RV’s here, probably 70% of sites, we were in our van. Unfortunately our neighbors ran their generator most of the evening until 10 quiet hours. There’s also a bit of road noise from Hwy 203. But all in all it’s a nice spot in the woods to camp within a few miles of all sorts of beautiful alpine lakes.
Robert Prescott
Quiet and unassuming, this campground offers a nice contrast, as you have plenty of trees around you and can walk across the street to town for anything you want. The spots can be tight, so check ahead of time to see if your trailer will fit. Some sites were only big enough for trailers, while others could hold several cars. It is also tight navigating through some parts of the campground. The hosts were friendly and keep the campground in good order. There is a dump station on premises that you can use and freshwater fill up as well.