Grays Meadows Campground

For us Californians, the Eastern Sierra Nevada is more than just a mountain range; it's a profound landscape of rugged beauty, towering peaks, and endless adventure. We flock to its trails, cast lines in its pristine waters, and seek solace in its quiet groves. Among the many incredible outdoor destinations this region offers, Grays Meadows Campground stands out as a true gem. It's a place that perfectly embodies the spirit of Sierra camping: breathtaking scenery, direct access to the wilderness, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

Grays Meadows is renowned not just for its stunning natural setting but also for the exceptional experience fostered by its dedicated camp hosts. It’s a testament to how friendly faces and well-maintained facilities, even simple ones, can elevate a camping trip from good to unforgettable. Whether you're planning a strenuous backpacking trip into the John Muir Wilderness, a relaxing fishing excursion, or simply a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle, Grays Meadows offers a fantastic basecamp for your Eastern Sierra adventures.

Grays Meadows Campground is ideally situated along Independence Creek in the Onion Valley area of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, at Onion Valley Rd, Independence, CA 93526, USA. This prime location places it approximately 6 miles west of the charming town of Independence. To get there, simply take U.S. Highway 395 to Independence, then turn west onto Market Street (which transitions into Onion Valley Road) and follow it for about 6 miles. The campground is divided into an upper and lower section, with the first gate accessing sites 36-52 and a second gate, 0.25 miles further, accessing sites 1-35. The campground sits at a comfortable elevation of approximately 6,100 feet, providing a pleasant climate that avoids the extreme heat of the valley floor while still offering easy access to higher elevations.

Its strategic position makes it incredibly convenient for accessing essential supplies in Independence or Lone Pine (a 15-20 minute drive away), ensuring you're never too far from forgotten items or a quick restaurant meal. The scenic drive up Onion Valley Road itself is a treat, with continuous views of the towering Sierra peaks, including Mt. Williamson and the distant Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, which borders the area to the west.

Grays Meadows Campground is designed to offer a comfortable and well-maintained dry camping experience, focusing on essential amenities that enhance your connection with nature. It comprises both an Upper and Lower Campground. Here's a breakdown of the services you can expect:

• Campsites: The campground features a total of 35 campsites in the Upper Campground and 16 in the Lower, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs. Sites can generally handle RVs and trailers up to 40 feet in length.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring with a grate for cooking, and a bear-proof food storage locker. These lockers are crucial for securely storing food and scented items, as the area is frequented by bears.
• Water Access: Potable drinking water is available at various spigots throughout the campground. While there are no individual site hookups, access to fresh water is a significant convenience.
• Restroom Facilities: Vault toilets are provided and are consistently praised by campers for being "immaculate" and "spotless" – among the cleanest seen in any campground.
• No Hookups: It's important to note that Grays Meadows is a dry camping facility, meaning there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites.
• No Dump Station: There is no dump station located directly within the campground. Campers in self-contained RVs will need to plan for dumping at external facilities.
• Camp Hosts: A major highlight repeatedly mentioned by visitors is the presence of friendly, helpful, and attentive camp hosts (such as Brianna and her husband). They are often available for assistance, information, and to ensure the campground remains well-maintained. Firewood is also available for purchase from the camp host.
• Reservations: While some sites may occasionally be available on a first-come, first-served basis, many sites at Grays Meadows are reservable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov. Given its popularity, making reservations is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at Grays Meadows, with a limit of two pets per site, and they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Grays Meadows Campground truly shines due to its exceptional features and the unique experiences it offers, making it a beloved spot for many California outdoor enthusiasts:

• Exceptional Camp Hosts: Consistently, visitors highlight the "truly friendly and helpful camp hosts" who "take great care of the campsite." This level of personal touch and dedication significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Beautiful Creekside Setting: Independence Creek runs directly through or borders sections of the campground, providing soothing sounds, picturesque views, and easy access for fishing. Some sites are ideally located right by the water.
• Prime Fishing: Independence Creek is regularly stocked with trophy-size rainbow trout, making it a fantastic spot for anglers. The early trout fishing season, starting the first weekend in March, is a particular draw, ahead of much of the area.
• Gateway to High Sierra Trails: The campground serves as an excellent base for serious hikers and backpackers. It offers close proximity to challenging trails leading into the John Muir Wilderness, including the demanding Shepherd Pass Trail and access to the Kearsarge Pass area, with stunning alpine lakes and high peaks.
• Shaded and Open Sites: The campground offers a mix of shaded spots, particularly in a large oak grove, and more open areas in the meadows, providing options for different preferences and solar exposure.
• Wildlife Abundance: The area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears (hence the bear lockers), mountain lions, mule deer, pine martens, pikas, and numerous species of birds and fish, offering great wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Stargazing: With its relatively low light pollution and clear mountain air, Grays Meadows is an excellent spot for stargazing, allowing campers to marvel at the Milky Way.
• Proximity to Town Amenities: Its location just a short drive from Independence and Lone Pine makes it convenient for quick resupplies, dining out, or exploring the charming small towns of the Eastern Sierra.
• Immaculate Vault Toilets: Despite being vault toilets, their cleanliness is frequently lauded by visitors, demonstrating a high standard of maintenance.

For more specific information, current conditions, or to make reservations for Grays Meadows Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Onion Valley Rd, Independence, CA 93526, USA

Phone: (760) 937-6070 (This number typically connects to the Mt. Whitney Ranger District or a related Forest Service office)

Mobile Phone: +1 760-937-6070

For reservations, it's highly recommended to visit Recreation.gov and search for "Grays Meadows Campground" to check availability and book your site in advance, especially during popular seasons.

For us Californians, Grays Meadows Campground encapsulates much of what we seek in an outdoor escape. Its prime location in the heart of the Eastern Sierra offers immediate access to the breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled recreational opportunities that define our state's wild side. We value convenience, and being just a short drive from Independence and Lone Pine means easy access to supplies or a quick meal, a practical benefit for any camping trip.

The consistent praise for the "friendly and helpful camp hosts" resonates deeply with locals who appreciate a well-run, welcoming environment. It’s a comfort to know that even when you’re disconnecting, there are good people looking after the place and ensuring a pleasant stay. The immaculate vault toilets, while a seemingly minor detail, are a significant indicator of the care put into the campground, making the rustic experience far more enjoyable. Furthermore, the excellent fishing in Independence Creek, direct access to world-class hiking in the John Muir Wilderness, and the ability to dry camp with a large rig are all highly attractive features for our diverse outdoor community.

While the Eastern Sierra wind can be a factor, as noted by campers, it's a small price to pay for the sheer beauty and tranquility. Grays Meadows provides a genuine taste of California's high country, offering a perfect blend of natural splendor, essential amenities, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where we can truly unwind, explore, and create lasting memories, solidifying its status as a top choice for a local California adventure.

Grays Meadows Campground

Onion Valley Rd, Independence, CA 93526, USA