Big Springs Campground

For those in California seeking an authentic outdoor experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty, Big Springs Campground in Mammoth Lakes offers an idyllic escape. Nestled within the vast and awe-inspiring Inyo National Forest, this campground provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature without the typical reservation hassle. Big Springs Campground is a well-loved destination, known for its serene atmosphere and its prime location that serves as a launchpad for countless adventures in the Eastern Sierra. It's a place where the sounds of the Owens River and rustling pine trees replace the urban hum, inviting campers to truly unwind and immerse themselves in the high-country environment. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Big Springs Campground provides a rustic yet accessible base for exploring one of California's most spectacular regions.

As a first-come, first-served campground, Big Springs embodies the spontaneous spirit of adventure. It's a developed campground, meaning it offers basic amenities that enhance your comfort while still maintaining a wild feel. With 26 campsites, it fosters a sense of community among campers, yet the spacious sites allow for privacy and personal space. The elevation of approximately 7,300 feet ensures cooler temperatures during the summer months, making it a refreshing alternative to the heat of the lower elevations. It's important for visitors to come prepared, as this campground is designed for those who appreciate a more self-sufficient camping style, focusing on the natural surroundings rather than extensive modern conveniences.

Big Springs Campground is conveniently located in Mammoth Lakes, California, with the specific address being Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA. This places it strategically between the popular towns of Mammoth Lakes and June Lake, offering easy access to both vibrant communities and their respective attractions. The campground is situated along Owens River Road, specifically on a firm-packed gravel section that is smooth and easily navigable for most 2WD vehicles, including full-sized RVs. This makes it a highly accessible option for a wide range of campers.

To reach Big Springs Campground, travelers from US-395 north of Mammoth Lakes can simply take the exit for Owens River Road and head east. The straightforward access means less time navigating complicated routes and more time enjoying your destination. While the campground offers a feeling of being deep in the wilderness, essential services and supplies are conveniently located within a 20-minute drive in nearby Mammoth Lakes. This balance of remote tranquility and practical accessibility makes Big Springs Campground an excellent choice for those looking to experience the Eastern Sierra without venturing too far off the beaten path. Its proximity to major highways also means less travel time from various parts of California, making it an ideal weekend getaway or a stop on a longer road trip through the Sierra Nevada.

• Campsites: The campground features 26 individual campsites.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons and weekends, to secure a spot.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for campers' convenience.

• Bear-Proof Food Storage Lockers: Each campsite is equipped with a bear-proof food storage locker (typical size 48"x30"x36"), essential for protecting food and scented items from local wildlife, particularly bears. Campers are required to use these lockers.

• Picnic Tables: Every campsite includes a picnic table, providing a dedicated space for outdoor dining and meal preparation.

• Fire Rings with Grates: Each site has a designated fire ring with a grate, allowing for safe campfires and cooking, provided fire restrictions are not in place.

• Camp Host (Seasonal): A camp host is typically on-site, offering assistance and ensuring a smooth camping experience.

• No Potable Water: It is important to note that Big Springs Campground does not provide potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring their own water supply.

• No Electric Hookups: There are no electric hookups available at the campsites, emphasizing a rustic camping experience.

• No Trash Cans On-Site: Campers are required to pack out all trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles. A DOT rest area (Crestview Rest Area) located approximately 2.6 miles away along US-395 offers trash cans and potable water.

• RV Accessible: Campsites are large enough to accommodate full-sized RVs, although no hookups are provided.

• Donation Box: While technically a free campground, a donation box is usually available with a suggested donation of $10.00 to help with campground maintenance.

• Maximum Stay Limit: The maximum stay is 14 consecutive days within a 10-mile radius, with a cumulative limit of 28 days in a calendar year.

• Proximity to Owens River: The campground is situated along the scenic Owens River Road, with Deadman Creek nearby, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (catch and release, barbless hook only is noted for the creek).

• Eastern Sierra Scenery: Surrounded by a beautiful pine forest and set against the backdrop of the Eastern Sierra mountains, the campground offers picturesque views and a true wilderness feel.

• Access to OHV/ATV Trails: Big Springs Campground is a popular base camp for exploring an expansive network of off-highway vehicle (OHV) and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails in the Lookout Mountain area. This includes both double track and single track routes, providing thrilling adventures for riders.

• Exploring Obsidian Dome: The unique geological formation of Obsidian Dome, made of volcanic glass, is easily accessible from the campground, offering fascinating exploration opportunities.

• Hiking and Biking Opportunities: The surrounding Inyo National Forest provides a myriad of hiking and biking trails, catering to various skill levels. From leisurely strolls to challenging ascents, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting makes it a great spot for wildlife viewing, with elk and bison occasionally passing through the wider Mammoth Lakes area, and local smaller wildlife present around the campground.

• Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity and proximity to OHV trails, many campers report that the campground maintains a surprisingly quiet and peaceful environment, especially thanks to the sounds of the nearby creek.

• Seasonal Activities: Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing in winter and a wide range of summer activities including climbing, boating (non-motorized on many lakes), and horseback riding in the broader Mammoth Lakes region.

Address: Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA

For general inquiries regarding Big Springs Campground and the surrounding Inyo National Forest, you may contact the Mono Lake Ranger District.

Mono Lake Ranger District Office Phone: (760) 647-3044

Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center (for broader area information):

Address: 2510 Hwy 203 Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Phone: (760) 924-5500

It is important to remember that Big Springs Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so direct reservations are not taken for this specific campground. However, contacting the Ranger District or Welcome Center can provide valuable information on current conditions, fire restrictions, and other local advisories.

Big Springs Campground stands out as an exceptional destination for California locals seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor escape. Its first-come, first-served nature eliminates the need for advanced planning and competitive online booking, offering a refreshing spontaneity that many appreciate in today’s over-scheduled world. For residents across California, particularly those in Southern and Central California, the drive to Mammoth Lakes is a manageable journey, leading to a dramatically different landscape and climate perfect for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

The campground’s location in the Eastern Sierra provides a robust array of recreational activities that cater to diverse interests. Anglers will revel in the proximity to the Owens River and Deadman Creek, known for their trout fishing opportunities. Hikers and mountain bikers have immediate access to a vast network of trails within the Inyo National Forest, ranging from gentle paths to challenging ascents, all offering stunning vistas. For off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, Big Springs serves as an ideal basecamp to explore the extensive OHV trails around Lookout Mountain and Obsidian Dome, ensuring thrilling adventures right from your campsite.

Beyond the activities, the unique charm of Big Springs lies in its rustic simplicity. While amenities like potable water and electric hookups are not available, this encourages a deeper connection with nature and a true "unplugged" experience. The provided vault toilets, bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and fire rings ensure essential comforts, allowing campers to focus on enjoying the natural beauty. The presence of a seasonal camp host adds a layer of security and helpfulness, creating a welcoming environment.

Furthermore, its position between Mammoth Lakes and June Lake means that while you’re enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness, you’re never too far from towns offering supplies, dining, and additional attractions. This blend of wildness and convenience makes Big Springs Campground particularly suitable for Californians looking for a genuine outdoor adventure that remains within reach of modern comforts should they need them. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, friends can embark on exciting excursions, and individuals can find peace and solitude amidst some of California’s most iconic landscapes. Big Springs Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation to experience the heart of the Eastern Sierra.

Big Springs Campground

Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA