Intake 2 Campground

For Californians seeking an authentic high-country adventure, Intake 2 Campground in the picturesque Bishop Creek Area near Bishop, CA, offers a truly remarkable escape. Nestled at an elevation of 8,200 feet, this campground is a gateway to the stunning Eastern Sierra Nevada, a region celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, pristine lakes, and world-class fishing opportunities. It's more than just a place to set up camp; it's a launchpad for exploration, relaxation, and connecting with nature in one of California's most breathtaking environments. Whether you're an avid angler, a keen hiker, or simply looking to breathe in crisp mountain air, Intake 2 Campground provides an unforgettable experience.

As locals, we know the allure of the Eastern Sierra – its rugged beauty, clear skies, and endless recreational possibilities. Intake 2 Campground embodies this appeal, offering a serene base camp for your adventures. The direct proximity to Intake Two lake and the Middle Fork of Bishop Creek means immediate access to excellent fishing, a beloved pastime for many Californians. The campground's natural setting, surrounded by the grandeur of the mountains, provides a profound sense of tranquility, making it an ideal spot to unwind and recharge away from the demands of everyday life.

What sets Intake 2 Campground apart for residents of California is its versatility and charm throughout the seasons. While primarily a summer and fall destination for camping, the area's beauty extends into winter, with the frozen lake offering a unique, awe-inspiring sight for those prepared for cold-weather exploration. Its first-come, first-served availability means a degree of spontaneity is possible, appealing to adventurers who prefer flexibility in their travel plans. It's a place where the focus is on the natural environment and the outdoor activities it enables, rather than extensive modern amenities, truly reflecting the spirit of high-country camping in California.

Intake 2 Campground is located near Bishop, CA 93514, USA. More precisely, it is situated off Highway 168 (also known as W Line Street) heading west out of Bishop. This places it approximately 20 miles west of Bishop, high up in the Bishop Creek drainage of the Inyo National Forest. The campground is nestled just above Intake Two lake, which is formed by a dam on the Middle Fork of Bishop Creek. This puts campers right in the heart of prime fishing and hiking territory, with easy access to other popular lakes and trailheads in the region, such as Lake Sabrina and South Lake.

Accessibility to Intake 2 Campground for Californians is generally straightforward, primarily via Highway 395, the scenic backbone of the Eastern Sierra. From Southern California, travelers will head north on Highway 395, eventually turning west onto Highway 168 (Line Street) in Bishop. From Northern California, Highway 395 southbound leads to Bishop. Once on Highway 168, the drive is a relatively easy 20-minute journey through picturesque mountain landscapes. The road is paved, making it accessible for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers. The campground is located shortly after the road forks, before reaching Aspendell, on the left side. While the elevation is significant at 8,200 feet, the access road is well-maintained, allowing for a comfortable ascent into this beautiful high-country setting. It's important to note that due to its elevation, the campground is typically open seasonally from late May to mid-September, with opening and closing dates dependent on snowmelt and snowfall. Planning your trip within this window is crucial for Californians wishing to experience this gem.

Intake 2 Campground offers a range of essential services designed to provide a comfortable and functional high-elevation camping experience. While not a full-service resort, it provides the key amenities needed for an enjoyable stay in the Inyo National Forest:

• 16 Campsites: The campground features a total of 16 campsites. These are divided into Upper Intake 2 with 11 campsites suitable for small vehicles (RVs/trailers generally up to 30 feet) located near the creek, and Lower Intake 2 with 5 walk-to campsites situated on the west shore of Intake Two lake.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites at Intake 2 Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This means no reservations are taken, and sites are available to those who arrive and claim them first.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for preparing meals and enjoying campfires (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Food Storage Lockers (Bear Boxes): Located in active bear country, every campsite is provided with a bear-resistant food storage locker. Proper storage of all food and scented items is mandatory to ensure the safety of both campers and local wildlife.
• Flush Toilets: A significant amenity, the campground offers flush toilets, which provide a more comfortable restroom experience compared to vault toilets found in some other primitive campgrounds.
• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water is available within the campground, typically from central spigots.
• Trash Collection: Designated areas for trash collection are provided, allowing campers to dispose of their waste responsibly.
• Day-Use / Picnic Area: There is a dedicated day-use or picnic area conveniently located next to Intake Two lake, ideal for non-campers or for a midday break by the water.
• No Hookups: Importantly, campsites do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups, so campers must be self-sufficient for these utilities.

Intake 2 Campground boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for Californians seeking a high-altitude outdoor experience. These attributes contribute significantly to its unique appeal:

• Exceptional Fishing Access: The campground is renowned as an excellent fishing spot, located directly on the Middle Fork of Bishop Creek and just above Intake Two lake. Both are regularly stocked with rainbow trout and also support healthy populations of wild brown trout, offering superb opportunities for anglers.
• Stunning Alpine Scenery: Perched at 8,200 feet elevation, the campground is surrounded by breathtaking Eastern Sierra landscapes, including towering peaks, alpine forests, and the sparkling waters of Intake Two lake. The views are spectacular year-round, even when the lake is frozen in winter.
• Year-Round Beauty (Seasonal Access): While the campground itself is seasonal, the area offers beauty across all seasons. The fall colors are particularly noted as stunning, and the frozen lake in winter provides a unique and majestic sight for those who venture out.
• Easy and Moderate Hiking Trails: The surrounding area offers a variety of hiking opportunities, including an easy and level trail for walks around the lake, making it accessible for families and casual strollers, as well as more moderate options for experienced hikers.
• Convenient Walk-To Sites: The presence of 5 walk-to campsites on the lake's west shore offers a slightly more secluded tent camping experience, appealing to those who prefer to be a bit further from their vehicle.
• Proximity to Bishop Creek Area Attractions: Its location on Highway 168 provides easy access to other popular lakes and campgrounds in the Bishop Creek drainage, as well as the nearby town of Bishop for supplies and services.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity as a fishing destination, the campground maintains a generally quiet and peaceful ambiance, conducive to relaxation and enjoying the natural sounds of the creek.
• Level Campsites: Many sites are noted as level, which is a significant advantage for setting up tents or parking RVs comfortably.

For inquiries and information about Intake 2 Campground, including its seasonal opening and closing dates, current conditions, and any alerts (such as fire restrictions or bear activity), you can use the following contact information. Please note that individual campgrounds within National Forests are typically managed by a larger district office.

Address: Bishop, CA 93514, USA (This zip code broadly covers the Bishop area, including the Bishop Creek drainage where the campground is located).

For the most current and accurate information, especially regarding seasonal access, site availability (as it's first-come, first-served), and specific rules, it is highly recommended that Californians contact the Inyo National Forest Supervisor's Office, which manages this area. Their main contact number is generally the most reliable point of contact for campgrounds within the forest:

Phone: (760) 873-2400 (This is the general Inyo National Forest number, which can direct you to the appropriate ranger district or provide campground information.)

Alternatively, the number provided in the initial information, (714) 231-3004, might be associated with a specific managing entity or a broader recreation information line. Always call ahead to confirm operating dates, check for any alerts, and ensure you have the most up-to-date information for a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful high-country destination.

For Californians, Intake 2 Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice for a memorable high-country getaway. Its primary appeal lies in its prime location within the stunning Bishop Creek Area, offering unparalleled access to excellent fishing in Intake Two lake and Bishop Creek. For anglers across the state, this direct connection to well-stocked waters is a significant draw, promising a rewarding experience amidst breathtaking scenery.

Beyond fishing, the campground's elevation at 8,200 feet provides cool mountain air and spectacular views, making it a refreshing escape from the warmer temperatures of California's lower elevations. The presence of easy to moderate hiking trails caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from casual walkers enjoying the level paths around the lake to more avid hikers venturing into the surrounding wilderness. While its first-come, first-served policy requires a degree of flexibility, it also means that spontaneous trips to this beautiful destination are possible. Intake 2 Campground truly encapsulates the essence of Eastern Sierra camping, offering a rustic yet comfortable base for Californians to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of their home state, providing both adventure and serene relaxation.

Intake 2 Campground

Bishop, CA 93514, USA