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Tuttle Creek (BLM)
Overview
Tuttle Creek Campground, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, offers a classic high-desert camping experience at the base of the Eastern Sierra. Situated just west of Lone Pine, California, this park provides a rugged, authentic atmosphere for travelers who appreciate wide-open spaces and direct access to nature. It is widely known for its affordability and the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. RVers will find that the lack of city lights makes for unparalleled stargazing opportunities right from their campsites throughout the year.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is nestled on an alluvial fan overlooking the Owens Valley, providing unobstructed views of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Its location puts visitors right at the doorstep of the Alabama Hills, famous for their unique rock formations and cinematic history. The elevation is approximately 5,000 feet, which means cooler temperatures than the valley floor but plenty of sunshine. The proximity to the granite peaks creates a striking visual contrast against the desert floor, offering some of the best photography opportunities in the region.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a traditional BLM facility designed primarily for dry camping, meaning it does not offer electricity or sewer hookups at individual sites. However, the park is very functional for self-contained travelers. Features include:
- Spacious sites designed to accommodate large motorhomes and fifth wheels.
- Centralized vault toilets maintained for cleanliness throughout the season.
- A seasonal dump station and potable water fill station available for a small fee.
Most sites are well-spaced, ensuring that visitors enjoy a level of privacy and solitude rarely found in private parks or high-density resorts.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The surrounding area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors are only a short drive from the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area, where numerous films have been shot among the granite boulders and natural arches. Hikers can access challenging trails leading toward the Whitney Portal, while anglers can try their luck in the nearby Tuttle Creek. The town of Lone Pine is close by, offering the Museum of Western Film History and several local cafes and supply shops for restocking essentials.
Who This Park Is Best For
Tuttle Creek is ideal for independent RVers who enjoy boondocking-style camping but appreciate the structure of a designated campground. It is a favorite for landscape photographers, rock climbers, and hikers looking to beat the crowds at more developed mountain resorts. If you value peace and quiet and a front-row seat to the sunrise over the Sierras, this rustic stopover is an essential California desert destination. It is best suited for those who come prepared with their own power and water management.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Brent Smiley
Dry camping in one of the most beautiful campgrounds you we'll ever visit. I'm attaching the morning view. Hot in the middle of summer, cold in the middle of winter, perfect place in spring or fall. It's Thanksgiving week hi of 65 low of 38. Perfection. Bonus: Manzanar is only about 5 miles up the road. I hesitate to post this because I don't want it to be too popular. Oh, and cost is $8 a night. BLM campground baby! Bonus 2: T-Mobile 4 bars of 5g
Leonie Darsow
This is a wonderful simple campground in the affordable range. Well maintained with clean toilets and trash disposal. The sites are well sized and have large fire rings. The two sites next to ours had horse paddocks! You can get fresh water from the creek and the views are fabulous. We rode the motorcycle to the nearby Alabama Hills and up to Lone Pine Lake (well, almost). Definitely recommended, would stay there again.
Alexandre Zorn
Great place to stay the night. Camping spots are very nice with a small creek nearby. No need for reservations, just pay with a small envelope at the entrance (cashless also available) 10 bucks a night for a regular spot.
Drea Ervin
Great little BLM campground! The fee is $10/night, and $5 with your senior/access pass. The views of the Eastern Sierra Mountains and Alabama Hills are unbelievable. You are close to Mt. Whitney and Alabama Hills. The restrooms are pit toilets, which could use a little love. There is a creek splitting the two sides of the campground. Bugs are biting. Potable water is available, as well as a dump station for a $10 fee. Dumpsters are at the entrance. You can stay up to 30 days with a permit from the BLM office.
Michael “Wolfy” Howes
Camped here last minute on our way through the area… it’s first come first serve but luckily we found a spot - we arrived around sunset… it’s in a beautiful location and super cheap for such an awesome campground. Has toilets, picnic table, grill, nice tent pads, etc. very clean, spacious for car camping - it was full and we didn’t feel cramped at all. You can also have fires in the fire ring - big plus. The road in/out is easily passable. Lots of nearby hikes and amazing views camping right underneath Mt Whitney… spectacular place when you consider price, quiet, accessible but also far from town, amenities, etc. Definitely plan to stay here more!