Old Shady Rest Campground

Nestled among towering pine trees in the heart of the majestic Eastern Sierra, Old Shady Rest Campground offers a quintessential California camping experience right in Mammoth Lakes. For locals throughout California seeking an accessible and amenity-rich escape into nature, this campground stands out as an exceptional choice. Whether you're an avid hiker, a family looking for a relaxing getaway, or simply someone who appreciates the tranquility of the great outdoors, Old Shady Rest provides a perfect base for exploration and rejuvenation.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of Old Shady Rest Campground, highlighting its key features, services, and why it's a particularly suitable destination for those residing in California. We'll delve into its prime location, the conveniences it offers, and the natural beauty that surrounds it, all while maintaining a friendly yet professional tone. Our goal is to help you envision your next memorable camping trip amidst the stunning landscapes of Mammoth Lakes, making Old Shady Rest Campground your go-to outdoor retreat.

Old Shady Rest Campground is ideally situated on Sawmill Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA. Its location is one of its most compelling attributes, offering campers the best of both worlds: immediate access to the natural wilderness and close proximity to the vibrant town of Mammoth Lakes. This strategic positioning means that after a day of hiking or exploring, you’re just a short distance from local shops, restaurants, and other essential services, providing convenience often not found in more remote campgrounds.

Accessibility to Old Shady Rest Campground is excellent. From various points within California, well-maintained state highways lead directly to Mammoth Lakes, and from there, the campground is just a brief drive. This ease of access makes it a highly attractive option for weekend trips or longer vacations, minimizing travel time and maximizing your time enjoying the destination. The proximity to town also means less preparation is needed for supplies, as anything forgotten can be easily purchased nearby. For those who enjoy spontaneous adventures or simply prefer not to stray too far from modern conveniences, Old Shady Rest offers the perfect balance.

One of the standout features of Old Shady Rest is its direct access to hiking trails. You can literally step out of your tent or RV and embark on an adventure into the breathtaking Eastern Sierra landscape. This seamless transition from campsite to trail is a huge draw for hikers of all levels, from those seeking a gentle nature walk to those ready to tackle more challenging ascents. The combination of natural immersion and urban convenience truly sets Old Shady Rest Campground apart as a premier camping destination in California.

Old Shady Rest Campground provides a variety of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. These amenities contribute significantly to the overall positive feedback from visitors.

• Clean Restrooms: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms. The availability of flush toilets is a significant upgrade from pit toilets often found in more rustic campgrounds, providing a much more comfortable and hygienic experience.
• Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires, perfect for cooking, warmth, and gathering around for storytelling and s'mores under the stars. (Always check local fire restrictions before lighting a fire.)
• Picnic Tables: Every site also includes a picnic table, providing a convenient and dedicated space for meal preparation, dining, or simply relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
• Good Size Bear Boxes: Given that Mammoth Lakes is bear country, the provision of robust and spacious bear boxes is a critical safety feature. These secure containers are essential for storing all food items, toiletries, and anything else with a scent, helping to prevent bear encounters and ensure the safety of both campers and wildlife. Campers are strongly encouraged to use these diligently.
• Dog Friendly: For many campers, bringing their canine companions along is a must. Old Shady Rest Campground is proudly dog-friendly, allowing pets to join in on the outdoor adventure, provided they are kept on a leash and owners adhere to responsible pet waste disposal.
• Dedicated Camp Hosts: The presence of excellent camp hosts, such as Mike and Trudy, is a recurring highlight in visitor reviews. These hosts are invaluable resources, offering kindness, helpful advice, and directions to the best trails, restaurants, and local attractions, significantly enhancing the visitor experience.

Old Shady Rest Campground offers several features and highlights that contribute to its popularity and make it a highly desirable camping location in Mammoth Lakes.

• Abundant Tall Pine Trees: The campground is characterized by its numerous tall and lovely pine trees. These trees not only provide ample shade, creating a cooler and more comfortable environment during sunny days, but also contribute significantly to the scenic beauty and forest ambiance of the campground.
• Affordable Camping: Visitors often note that Old Shady Rest Campground is "pretty cheap," offering an economical way to experience the beauty of Mammoth Lakes without breaking the bank. This affordability makes it accessible to a wider range of campers.
• Proximity to Town and Shopping: Despite its natural setting, the campground is conveniently close to the town of Mammoth Lakes. This means quick access to grocery stores for supplies, gear shops for forgotten items, and a variety of restaurants for those nights you might prefer dining out.
• Immediate Access to Hiking Trails: One of the most significant advantages is the direct access to hiking trails right out of your campsite. This allows campers to seamlessly transition from relaxation to active exploration, with numerous trail options available for all skill levels.
• Plenty of Spots (Generally): While specific availability can vary, reviews suggest that there are often "plenty of spots," indicating a good capacity that helps accommodate demand, particularly during off-peak times.
• Wildlife Awareness: While providing a natural habitat, campers are reminded to be aware of local wildlife, particularly ants around tent areas. This is a common aspect of camping in a natural environment and a small consideration for the overall benefits of the location.

For inquiries or to get in touch with Old Shady Rest Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: Sawmill Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA

Phone: (760) 873-2400

Mobile Phone: +1 760-873-2400

Old Shady Rest Campground is an outstanding choice for California locals seeking an enriching and convenient outdoor experience in the Eastern Sierra. Its strategic location in Mammoth Lakes offers the perfect blend of natural immersion and urban accessibility. For Californians, this means a relatively manageable drive to reach a high-country oasis, providing a refreshing escape from city life or warmer climates. The comprehensive amenities, including clean flush toilets, fire pits, picnic tables, and crucial bear boxes, ensure a comfortable and safe stay.

The dog-friendly policy is a huge plus for pet owners across the state, allowing the whole family, including four-legged members, to enjoy the adventure together. Perhaps most appealing is the direct access to hiking trails right from the campground, inviting immediate exploration of the stunning natural landscapes that define the Mammoth Lakes region. Coupled with the helpful and welcoming camp hosts, Old Shady Rest Campground offers a welcoming and well-supported environment for all types of campers. It’s not just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to experiencing the unparalleled beauty and recreational opportunities that California's Eastern Sierra has to offer, making it an ideal local getaway.

Old Shady Rest Campground

Sawmill Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA