Camp High Sierra

Nestled in the breathtaking alpine setting of Mammoth Lakes, California, Camp High Sierra holds a unique position within the "Camping Near Me" category. With a history stretching back to 1921, it has long been a beloved destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Eastern Sierra. Owned and managed by Mammoth Mountain, it offers a distinct camping experience that combines essential amenities with a central location, though with some considerations regarding camper conduct.

Camp High Sierra is situated at an elevation of approximately 8,600 to 8,900 feet, within a beautiful pine and fir forest, specifically a mature Jeffrey pine forest. This high-altitude location ensures crisp mountain air and a picturesque setting, often surrounded by large and small boulders. Coldwater and Mammoth Creeks are noted to run alongside some of the campsites, adding to the natural ambiance. The campground is ideally located between the town of Mammoth Lakes and the popular Lakes Basin, offering the best of both worlds: convenient access to town amenities and immediate proximity to stunning natural attractions. From the campground, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Sherwins, Mammoth Mountain, and the Mammoth Crest. The sites are generally described as being on dirt pads, with many under a canopy of trees, providing a sense of being truly "nestled in the pines." While the campground can be busy, especially during peak seasons, it often maintains a quiet atmosphere, with many campers noting respectful behavior, particularly regarding noise levels.

Camp High Sierra is well-equipped with a range of services designed to make your camping trip comfortable and enjoyable. A standout feature, consistently praised by visitors, is the availability of several clean bathrooms throughout the property. Moreover, guests have access to free, hot showers, a highly valued amenity after a day of outdoor activities. For RV and trailer campers, the campground offers various site types, including full hook-up sites (with 30 & 50 amp electric, water, cable TV, and sewer connections) and partial hook-up sites (with water and 30A / 110 electric). Tent sites are also available, and for those seeking a different experience, rustic bunk-style cabins are an option. Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, a fire pit, and a bear-resistant food storage locker, which is crucial in this area known for its bear activity. The campground also offers shared water spigots for general use. For convenience, firewood, sunscreen, bug spray, and other necessities can be purchased at the Front Desk, located in the historic recreational lodge. The Front Desk is typically open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Pets are welcome at Camp High Sierra, with local leash laws applying, and pets should never be left unattended at the campsite. EV charging is also available with NEMA 14-50 / NEMA 14-30 / NEMA 5-20 / NEMA 5-15 outlets.

Beyond the basic camping provisions, Camp High Sierra offers several distinctive features that enhance the overall experience. Central to the campground is its historic recreational lodge. This charming lodge, with its wooden floors, walls, and open-rafter ceiling, serves as a gathering place for guests. It provides a communal space where visitors can play board games, ping pong, or simply relax around the large rock fireplace with a good book. This lodge adds a touch of rustic charm and a sense of community to the campground. For families with children, a children's play area is available, offering a dedicated space for kids to have fun. The campground's management by Mammoth Mountain provides a certain level of infrastructure and organization, though some reviewers note that while employees are friendly, their ability to immediately control or correct issues with "problem campers" (e.g., those walking through campsites, leaving unattended campfires, or making noise during quiet hours) might be limited, requiring complaints to be channeled through the corporate structure.

Camp High Sierra accommodates a variety of camping setups, including RVs with a maximum length of around 32 feet, though larger rigs have been noted to manage. While many sites are designed for RVs, specific tent-only sites are also available. The campground often has a vibrant atmosphere with many families, kids, and pets, making it a lively and social environment for those who enjoy that dynamic. Each campsite is allowed two vehicles (one car/one tow vehicle or two cars), with additional cars possibly accommodated in overflow parking for a fee.

Camp High Sierra benefits significantly from its prime location at 869 Lake Mary Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546. This address places it perfectly for exploring the numerous attractions of the Mammoth Lakes area. It's a short distance, often described as a 1.5-mile bike ride or drive, to both the town of Mammoth Lakes and the stunning Lakes Basin. This accessibility means campers are never far from:

• Mammoth Lakes Town: Access to grocery stores (like Vons and Grocery Outlet), a variety of restaurants, breweries, shops, and other conveniences.
• The Lakes Basin: Immediate access to a chain of beautiful alpine lakes, including Lake Mary, Twin Lakes, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake. These lakes are popular for fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic enjoyment.
• Outdoor Recreation: The campground serves as an ideal base for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling, with excellent bike paths, such as the Lakes Basin Path, accessible directly from the camp. Visitors can also easily access trailheads for more challenging hikes into the surrounding wilderness areas.
• Mammoth Mountain: Being managed by Mammoth Mountain, the campground offers excellent access to the ski resort in winter and its extensive mountain biking and hiking trails in summer.
• Nearby Attractions: Short drives can take visitors to iconic sites such as Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls, and Minaret Vista.

Reservations for Camp High Sierra are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, and can be made up to a year in advance. The reservation process typically involves calling the Mammoth hotline at (760) 934-0745 or the general Mammoth Mountain phone number. While some users have found the reservation process challenging, confirming details in advance is advised. The campground usually operates seasonally, often from Memorial Day to Labor Day, though specific opening and closing dates can vary based on snowpack and weather conditions. Walk-ups are generally welcome when space is available, but reservations are the surest way to secure a spot. The maximum occupancy per campsite is typically six people, and three tents are permitted per site.

Overall, Camp High Sierra offers a vibrant, amenity-rich camping experience in a prime Mammoth Lakes location. Its historical charm, clean facilities, and proximity to a wealth of outdoor activities make it a strong contender for families and groups looking for a basecamp in the Eastern Sierra, provided they are comfortable with the communal aspects of the campground's atmosphere.

Camp High Sierra

869 Lake Mary Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA