Intake 2 Campground

For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers searching the "Camping Near Me" category, Intake 2 Campground stands out as a prime destination in the Eastern Sierra. Located at Bishop, CA 93514, USA, this campground offers a captivating High Sierra experience, characterized by stunning natural beauty, excellent recreational opportunities, and a refreshing mountain environment. You can reach Intake 2 Campground at (714) 231-3004 or via mobile at +1 714-231-3004.

Intake 2 Campground is nestled within the scenic Bishop Creek Canyon, a renowned area in the Inyo National Forest. The campground is situated at an elevation of approximately 8,200 feet (2,500 meters), ensuring cool mountain air and breathtaking views. This high elevation contributes to a distinct alpine environment, with pine trees providing shade and the sound of Bishop Creek flowing nearby. As one reviewer aptly puts it, it's a "Beautiful area all year round," with the "frozen lake" being "awesome in the winter." The description of the campground being "right underneath the Sierras" truly captures its immersive mountain setting.

Directions to Intake 2 Campground are straightforward: from Bishop, take Highway 168 West (also known as W Line St). Drive about 16 to 20 miles, and the campground will be on your left, shortly after the road forks and before reaching Aspendell. This relatively easy access from Bishop makes it a convenient escape into the wilderness.

The campground's proximity to Middle Fork of Bishop Creek and Intake Two Lake is a significant environmental highlight. These water bodies are not only visually appealing but also central to the area's recreational appeal. The fall season is particularly highlighted by a user review, noting it's "Beautiful in the Fall," suggesting vibrant foliage and pleasant weather conditions.

Intake 2 Campground is a rustic yet well-equipped camping facility designed for an authentic outdoor experience. It comprises 16 campsites in total, offering a mix of accessibility options:

• Upper Intake 2: Features 11 campsites suitable for small vehicles, often described as secluded and shaded, located near Bishop Creek.
• Lower Intake 2: Consists of 5 walk-to campsites situated on the west shore of Intake Two Lake. These sites are ideal for tent camping, offering a bit more privacy as vehicles are parked a short distance away (25 to 100 yards).

A crucial detail for campers, especially those with RVs, is that campsites at Intake 2 Campground do not have hookups (electrical, sewer, or water). This makes it suitable for self-contained RVs or tent campers who are prepared for dry camping.

Key amenities and services provided at the campground include:

• Potable Drinking Water: Essential for any campground, ensuring a supply of fresh water for campers. However, it's worth noting that water availability can be seasonal, and it's always wise to confirm or bring extra.
• Flush Toilets: A significant convenience for a high-elevation campground, offering a more comfortable experience than vault toilets.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are available, helping campers maintain a clean environment.
• Campsite Furnishings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill, providing the basic necessities for cooking and gathering.
• Food Storage Lockers (Bear Boxes): Given that the campground is in active bear country, bear-resistant food storage lockers are provided at each campsite. It is mandatory for campers to use these for all food and scented items to prevent wildlife encounters.
• Day-Use / Picnic Area: In addition to overnight camping, there's a dedicated day-use area next to Intake Two Lake, perfect for picnics and enjoying the scenery.

Regarding connectivity, cell service is generally not available at Intake 2 Campground, allowing for a true disconnect from daily distractions and a deeper immersion in nature. The campground typically operates seasonally, generally from late May to mid-September, coinciding with the fishing season opener in the Sierras. It can close earlier in October depending on weather conditions.

Intake 2 Campground is particularly renowned for its access to various outdoor activities, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking active recreation:

• Fishing: This is a major draw. Intake Two Lake is a "good fishing spot" and is heavily stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during the season. It's known for excellent fishing opportunities, including for rainbow trout. The lake offers wheelchair access for fishing, making it inclusive. It's an easy-to-fish lake, perfect for shore fishermen and those using tubes. Bishop Creek itself also offers fishing opportunities for rainbow, brown, brook, and Alpers trout.
• Hiking: The area around Intake 2 Campground boasts "easy and moderate hiking around the lake." The flat trail near the lake is ideal for a leisurely walk. The broader Bishop Creek Canyon and Inyo National Forest offer an extensive network of trails for all levels, from easy strolls to challenging backcountry adventures, providing access to hundreds of lakes and stunning mountain vistas.
• Boating: While Lake Sabrina (nearby) allows motorized boating and has a boat launch, rentals, marina, and tackle shop, the majority of other lakes in the area, including Intake Two Lake, are suitable for non-motorized boating like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
• Photography: The "beautiful area" and "stunning natural beauty" mentioned by reviewers suggest ample opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography, especially during the fall.
• Stargazing: With limited light pollution at 8,200 feet and no cell service, Intake 2 Campground offers exceptional conditions for stargazing.

Intake 2 Campground is a popular spot, and its campsites are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. This means reservations are generally not available, and campers should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot. The daily fee for a campsite was noted as $34.00 per night in previous information.

The feedback from real customers strongly emphasizes the campground's natural beauty and its appeal for fishing and hiking. The mention of the "frozen lake" in winter indicates that the area maintains its allure even outside the primary camping season for those prepared for colder conditions and winter activities.

For those searching "Camping Near Me" and desiring an authentic High Sierra experience with excellent fishing, hiking, and a true disconnect from modern amenities, Intake 2 Campground is an excellent choice. Its relatively easy access from Bishop combined with its high-elevation wilderness feel makes it a compelling option for a mountain getaway. Remember to plan ahead, especially concerning food storage and the first-come, first-serve policy, to ensure a memorable and enjoyable camping trip.

Intake 2 Campground

Bishop, CA 93514, USA