Moraine Campground

For Californians eager to experience the stunning beauty of the Eastern Sierra and enjoy convenient access to one of the state's most iconic national parks, Moraine Campground in Lee Vining, CA, offers a unique and appealing option. This "great little campground" provides a fantastic base for exploring the high country, whether your passion is hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing amidst breathtaking natural scenery. Its charm lies in its diverse offerings, from shaded spots by the creek to open areas with expansive mountain views, catering to various camping preferences. While it holds a coveted position near popular attractions, it maintains a rustic appeal that draws those looking for an authentic outdoor experience. Let's delve into what makes Moraine Campground a compelling choice for your next California adventure.

Moraine Campground is conveniently located at 9806 CA-120, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA. This address places it directly on State Route 120, a major artery connecting the Eastern Sierra to Yosemite National Park (via the Tioga Pass, which is a seasonal road). This prime location means excellent accessibility for travelers coming from various parts of California, particularly those approaching from the west (Yosemite area) or from the east (US-395 corridor). The campground sits on the banks of Lee Vining Creek, offering a picturesque setting. Its proximity to the Tuolumne (east) entrance of Yosemite National Park (approximately 15 miles) makes it an incredibly popular overnight stop for those aiming to enter the park early, often before reservation requirements take effect. This also means convenient access to a multitude of other recreational opportunities in the surrounding Inyo National Forest, including additional lakes and hiking trails within easy driving distance. While the location is superb for access, be aware of potential early morning vehicle noise from those heading to Yosemite.

Moraine Campground offers a range of services designed to provide a comfortable and traditional camping experience, focusing on essential amenities within a natural setting:

• Campsite Variety: The campground features approximately 25 campsites, including those suitable for small RVs or trailers (with parking spurs up to 50 feet) and a few tent-only sites. There are desirable "nice spots by the creek" for water lovers and sites with "east west views."
• First-Come, First-Served: Moraine Campground generally operates on a "first-come, first-served" basis, meaning campers should plan to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Flush Toilets: The campground is equipped with flush toilets within its "comfort stations," enhancing convenience and hygiene for campers.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available through water spigots located near comfort stations, essential for cooking and hydration.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a fire ring and a picnic table, providing standard amenities for outdoor meals and campfires.
• Bear-Proof Food Storage: Given that the area is active bear country, each site is equipped with a large bear-proof food storage box (dimensions: 28" high x 33" deep x 47" wide), crucial for protecting food and scented items.
• On-Site Camp Host: A campground host is present, often described as "very friendly and helpful," providing valuable information about the area and recreational options.
• Paved Campground Roads: The roads within Moraine Campground are paved, making for easier access for both RVs and cars.

Moraine Campground boasts several key features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Californians seeking a high-Sierra camping adventure:

• Prime Location for Yosemite Access: Its strategic placement on CA-120 makes it an ideal spot for those aiming to enter Yosemite National Park, especially for early morning access before crowds or reservation requirements become prohibitive. This convenience is a major draw.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: The campground is nestled in a "nice forest of Aspen and pine trees," offering a picturesque environment. The presence of Lee Vining Creek, with its "nice spots by the creek," adds to the serene ambiance and provides opportunities to be near the water.
• Diverse Views: Campers can enjoy "east west views" from some spots, offering scenic vistas of the surrounding Eastern Sierra landscape.
• Friendly and Knowledgeable Camp Host: Visitors consistently praise the campground hosts as "very friendly and helpful," offering pleasant conversation and useful "tips about the area and options for recreation." This personal touch significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Good for Trailers and Tents: The campground accommodates both small RVs/trailers and tents, making it versatile for different camping setups. Campsites are generally "of decent size," providing comfortable space.
• Essential Amenities for Comfort: The availability of flush toilets and drinking water (though not at every site) contributes significantly to a more comfortable stay compared to more primitive campgrounds.
• Bear Safety Infrastructure: The provision of bear-proof food storage boxes at each site is a crucial highlight, ensuring safety and encouraging responsible camping practices in an area with active black bears.
• Opportunity for Recreation: The location provides easy access to Lee Vining Creek for water activities and is a gateway to the broader recreational opportunities of the Eastern Sierra, including hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby lakes.
• "Disconnect" Potential (Mostly): While close to a main road, the natural setting allows for a significant sense of getting away from it all, despite some early morning noise from Yosemite-bound traffic.

For more information regarding Moraine Campground, including specific seasonal opening and closing dates (which are highly dependent on weather and road conditions), it is recommended to contact the Inyo National Forest directly, as they manage this area. While an on-site host provides immediate assistance, general inquiries are best directed to the managing forest service.

Address: 9806 CA-120, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA

General Inquiries (Inyo National Forest): (760) 647-3044

Inyo National Forest Supervisor's Office: (760) 873-2400

Moraine Campground is an excellent choice for Californians looking for a convenient, comfortable, and scenic basecamp for their Eastern Sierra adventures. Its strategic location on CA-120 offers unparalleled access to Yosemite National Park (via Tioga Pass) and countless other recreational opportunities, including the serene Lee Vining Creek and numerous high-country lakes for fishing and hiking. While the first-come, first-served policy necessitates early arrival, especially during peak seasons, the reward is a clean, well-maintained site with essential amenities like flush toilets and bear-proof storage. Despite the occasional early morning noise from vehicles heading to Yosemite, the overall atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, often enhanced by a helpful camp host. Moraine Campground provides a fantastic blend of natural beauty and practical access, making it perfectly suited for families, small trailers, and tent campers alike who wish to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities that define California's magnificent Eastern Sierra.

Moraine Campground

9806 CA-120, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA