Lower Virginia Creek Primitive Campground

For California residents who seek the authentic, undeveloped experience of the High Sierra, the **Lower Virginia Creek Primitive Campground** is a cherished local secret. Tucked away in the stunning Eastern Sierra landscape near Lee Vining, this site provides a true return to nature. Operated by the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the key feature that draws in-the-know Golden State campers is its designation as a **free, developed campground**. It offers essential amenities without fees, making it an incredibly popular and accessible option for an unforgettable mountain escape.

Located at a breathtaking elevation of approximately 9,100 feet, this campground serves as a rugged basecamp for exploring the spectacular Virginia Lakes area, the nearby Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite National Park, and the numerous fishing and hiking opportunities the Mono County region is famous for. For Californians, this is the quintessential high-altitude wilderness experience.

**Lower Virginia Creek Primitive Campground** embraces a rustic, minimally developed approach to camping. It features around 22 designated campsites set within a beautiful Jeffrey Pine forest adjacent to Virginia Creek. As a **primitive** site, it is designed for campers who are largely self-sufficient and comfortable with minimal services. The campground operates on a strict **first-come, first-served** basis, meaning reservations are not accepted—a crucial piece of information for local travelers planning weekend or summer trips.

Despite being primitive, it is a developed campground, meaning sites are established and managed, offering essentials like fire rings and pit toilets. Its location along Virginia Creek provides a serene soundtrack to your stay, and the high elevation ensures refreshingly cool temperatures during the peak summer months. Visitors should be prepared for the alpine environment, including the potential for quickly changing weather and the mandatory precautions required when camping in bear country. The maximum stay limit is 14 days in any 30-day period.

The campground is officially located off **Virginia Lakes Rd, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA**. To reach the site, travelers on US-395 (the main artery of the Eastern Sierra) must turn onto Virginia Lakes Road, which is situated between the towns of Bridgeport and Lee Vining. After traveling approximately 2.4 miles on Virginia Lakes Rd, you turn onto Forest Road 139 (also known as Lower 139 Campground Rd) to access the campground.

Accessibility is surprisingly good for a primitive, high-elevation campground. Many of the 22 sites are large enough to **accommodate large trailers or motorhomes**, a notable feature praised in local reviews. However, the access road itself (Forest Road 139) is noted as a little narrow, requiring careful navigation around trees, especially for big rigs. The campground typically operates seasonally, from **late May to mid-October**, depending on snow and weather conditions. Campers should always check the current road conditions before attempting the drive, especially early or late in the season.

As a free, primitive site, the services at Lower Virginia Creek are deliberately minimal but functional for a true outdoor experience:

• **Restrooms:** Basic **public restrooms** (vault or pit toilets) are available on-site.
• **Campsite Furnishings:** Each of the 22 rustic sites includes a **fire ring** for campfires (fire conditions permitting) and a **bear-proof food storage locker (bear box)**, which is mandatory for securing all food and scented items in this bear-active area.
• **Waste Management:** There is **no trash service** provided. Campers must adhere to strict "Pack It In, Pack It Out" ethics for all garbage.
• **Water:** **Potable water is not available** at this site. Campers must bring all their own drinking and cooking water.
• **Utilities:** There are **no fees**, **no reservations**, and **no electric, water, or sewer hookups** for RVs or trailers.
• **Cell Service:** Cell service in this high mountain area is often reported as very spotty or non-existent.

Lower Virginia Creek Primitive Campground is a highlight in the Eastern Sierra for its combination of quality environment and unique accessibility.

• **Free Camping:** The primary draw is the **no-fee status**, offering an economical way for California families to enjoy the Eastern Sierra wilderness.
• **Creekside Setting:** The campground is located adjacent to **Virginia Creek**, providing scenic views, the peaceful sound of running water, and excellent opportunities for **trout fishing**.
• **High-Altitude Beauty:** Situated at 9,100 feet in a **Jeffrey Pine Forest**, the area boasts fresh air, a stunning alpine environment, and magnificent views of the surrounding peaks.
• **Access to Virginia Lakes:** The camp serves as a perfect stepping-off point for exploring the higher Virginia Lakes Basin, renowned for spectacular hiking, backpacking, and fishing in high-alpine lakes.
• **Yosemite Gateway Proximity:** It is only about 28 miles from the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite National Park, making it an excellent, affordable basecamp for exploring the eastern side of the park (seasonal road closure applies to Tioga Pass).
• **Large Site Capacity:** Despite being primitive, the inclusion of several large sites that can accommodate big rigs and trailers is a significant feature, expanding accessibility for all types of campers.

As this is a federally managed site, the contact information is for the responsible Ranger District within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.

**Address:** Virginia Lakes Rd, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA (Actual physical location is on NFSR 139 off Virginia Lakes Rd)

**Managing Office (Bridgeport Ranger District):** 75694 US-395 HC 62, Bridgeport, CA 93517

**Phone:** (760) 932-7070

For the California outdoor enthusiast, choosing the Lower Virginia Creek Primitive Campground is absolutely worth it for its focus on **authentic, cost-free, high-elevation adventure**.

First, the fact that this is a **no-fee campground** in a highly sought-after recreational area is a massive benefit, allowing you to save money while experiencing the best of the Eastern Sierra. The "priced right" review reflects the high value derived from a free, well-situated site.

Second, it is the ideal spot for campers who are **truly seeking to disconnect**. The lack of amenities and poor cell service encourages a genuine immersion in nature, a vital opportunity for a break from California's fast-paced urban centers. You get the beauty of a national forest setting—fire rings, bear boxes, and stunning views—without the crowds and noise often associated with paid, reserved campgrounds.

Finally, the proximity to world-class recreational opportunities—trout fishing, hiking to the Virginia Lakes, and easy access to the Yosemite area—makes it an unparalleled basecamp. If you are prepared for primitive conditions, understand bear country etiquette, and appreciate a rustic, first-come, first-served experience, Lower Virginia Creek will become your "favorite place" for years of family trips in the California mountains.

Lower Virginia Creek Primitive Campground

Virginia Lakes Rd, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA