Goodale Creek Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Californians seeking a serene and budget-friendly escape into the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Goodale Creek Campground near Independence, California, stands out as a hidden gem. This delightful campground offers a peaceful retreat with absolutely spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, making it an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature's grandeur. Visitors consistently praise Goodale Creek not only for its breathtaking scenery and tranquil atmosphere but also for its exceptional cleanliness, particularly its restrooms, which are often highlighted as some of the cleanest encountered at any RV park. The campground provides a rustic yet comfortable experience, catering to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, with well-appointed sites that include picnic tables and fire pits. While it embraces a more primitive style of camping with no direct water hookups at sites, the overall quality of the experience, combined with the welcoming presence of hosts like Keith, who offers a "wealth of information about local things to do" and "great recommendations for food," makes it a highly recommended choice. Whether you're planning a quick overnight stop or a longer stay to explore the vast beauty of the Owens Valley, Goodale Creek Campground promises a scenic, peaceful, and truly memorable California outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Goodale Creek Campground is conveniently located near Independence, CA 93526, USA, making it a highly accessible destination for Californians exploring the Eastern Sierra. Situated just a short drive off U.S. Route 395, the primary north-south artery through this stunning region, the campground offers straightforward access for travelers coming from both Southern and Northern California. From major urban centers like Los Angeles or San Francisco, the journey transforms from bustling freeways to the wide-open, picturesque landscapes of the Owens Valley, with the majestic Sierra Nevada always in view. The turn-off from US-395 to Goodale Creek is typically well-marked, guiding visitors easily to their peaceful campsite. While the campground feels wonderfully remote, it's close enough to the town of Independence, where campers can find basic supplies, gas, and a charming local atmosphere. This balance of seclusion and convenience is a significant draw. The access roads within the campground are generally well-maintained, accommodating various vehicle types, though some sites may present "challenging to level" conditions for trailers or RVs, a common characteristic of natural terrain campgrounds. Its prime location also serves as an excellent base for exploring a myriad of nearby attractions, including Manzanar National Historic Site, the Alabama Hills, and countless hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities within the Inyo National Forest. Goodale Creek Campground’s strategic placement allows Californians to effortlessly tap into the profound beauty and recreational richness of the Eastern Sierra.

Services Offered

• RV and Tent Camping Sites: Provides well-spaced sites suitable for both recreational vehicles and traditional tent camping.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for outdoor dining and convenience.
• Fire Pits: Individual fire pits are available at each site for campfires and cooking (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Restrooms: Exceptionally clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for campers' convenience. (Note: While very clean, these are typically vault toilets, not flush toilets, and there are no showers.)
• No Potable Water: Campers must bring their own water supply as there is no potable water available at the campground.
• No Hookups: Individual sites do not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups, catering to a more rustic camping experience.
• Host On-Site: A friendly and informative camp host is often present, offering assistance and local recommendations.
• Spacious Sites: Sites are generally spacious, with some being drive-through and most being back-in, accommodating various vehicle sizes.
• Dog-Friendly: Pets are welcome but should be kept on a leash and attended to.
• Budget-Friendly: Considered a very nice and affordable option for camping in the region.

Features / Highlights

• Spectacular Sierra Nevada Views: The most immediate and striking feature is the "great" and "spectacular" views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The backdrop of towering peaks creates a truly majestic setting for any camping experience, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
• Exceptional Cleanliness of Restrooms: Visitors consistently praise the "cleanest bathrooms we have seen at any RV park we have been to lately," a significant highlight for any campground, especially those without full amenities at each site.
• Friendly and Informative Camp Host: The presence of an "awesome host who greeted us and was a wealth of information about local things to do" significantly enhances the visitor experience, providing valuable insights and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Peaceful and Scenic Environment: Described as "very scenic and peaceful," the campground offers a quiet retreat away from crowds, allowing for deep relaxation and immersion in nature. Its remote feel, even when relatively uncrowded, contributes to this tranquility.
• Budget-Friendly Option: For those looking for an affordable yet high-quality camping experience in the Eastern Sierra, Goodale Creek is highlighted as a "very nice and budget-friendly campground," offering excellent value.
• Unique Rock Formations: The presence of "odd rock formations around the campground" adds an interesting geological dimension to the landscape, inviting exploration and visual intrigue.
• Uncrowded Atmosphere (especially off-season): Reviews suggest that in mid-March, the campground was "very uncrowded," offering a more private and serene experience, though this may change with warmer weather.
• Proximity to Local Amenities: Despite its remote feel, it's close enough to Independence to access "great recommendations for food" and basic supplies.

Contact Information

While specific official contact information directly linked to Goodale Creek Campground itself might be managed by a larger entity, such as the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or Inyo National Forest, the provided contact details are typically associated with a regional office or a concessionaire managing the area:

Address: Independence, CA 93526, USA (General location)

For more precise information and to inquire about current conditions, availability, or any specific regulations, it is highly recommended to contact the relevant managing agency. Often, campgrounds in this region are part of the Inyo National Forest. You can reach out to them or a regional BLM office.

Phone: (602) 726-1102

Mobile Phone: +1 602-726-1102

It is always advisable to call ahead or check the official websites of the Inyo National Forest or BLM California for the most up-to-date information, especially concerning fire restrictions, road conditions, and any changes in services or fees, to ensure a well-prepared and enjoyable visit to Goodale Creek Campground.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Californians, Goodale Creek Campground offers an ideal local escape, perfectly embodying the rugged beauty and peaceful solitude of the Eastern Sierra, all within a reasonable drive. Its budget-friendly nature makes it an accessible option for diverse groups, ensuring that the magic of California's high desert and mountain landscapes is within reach for everyone. Locals will particularly appreciate the escape from the dense populations and noise of urban centers, finding immediate tranquility in the "very scenic and peaceful" environment. The exceptional cleanliness of the restrooms, a standout feature, combined with the presence of a welcoming and knowledgeable camp host, elevates the basic camping experience, making it surprisingly comfortable despite the lack of full hookups. This campground caters wonderfully to both tent and RV campers, offering spacious sites and stunning, unobstructed views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, a quintessential California vista. For those living in California, Goodale Creek serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich historical sites of the Owens Valley, embarking on numerous hiking adventures, or simply unwinding amidst breathtaking natural beauty. It's a place where one can truly disconnect, breathe fresh mountain air, and reconnect with nature without venturing too far from home. The opportunity to find such a peaceful and uncrowded spot, especially during off-peak seasons, is a significant draw for local outdoor enthusiasts. Goodale Creek Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an invitation for Californians to experience the authentic, serene, and awe-inspiring side of their own state, proving that an unforgettable outdoor adventure doesn't always require a long journey or a hefty price tag.

Goodale Creek Campground

Independence, CA 93526, USA