Reds Meadow Campground

For California locals with a passion for the great outdoors and a desire to explore some of the state's most iconic natural wonders, Reds Meadow Campground in Mammoth Lakes, CA, offers an truly exceptional camping experience. Nestled deep within the breathtaking beauty of the Inyo National Forest and the Reds Meadow Valley, this campground is a gateway to towering geological formations, cascading waterfalls, and serene alpine lakes. If you're seeking a blend of adventurous exploration and surprisingly comfortable amenities, all with the flexibility of a first-come, first-served system, Reds Meadow Campground is a prime destination.

What sets Reds Meadow Campground apart, and makes it a beloved spot for many Californians, is its unique blend of rustic charm and unexpected conveniences. Visitors rave about the availability of natural hot water, which, even with the bathhouse closed, still flows near the creek, offering a delightful way to warm up for a shower or to easily clean pots and pans. This innovative use of natural resources adds a distinctive touch to the camping experience that is rarely found elsewhere.

Beyond the warm water, campers consistently highlight the remarkably clean facilities. Despite having transitioned to "new solar powered pit toilets," reviewers emphasize their impeccable cleanliness, with camp hosts checking and cleaning them "2x a day." This dedication to hygiene, even on busy days, ensures a comfortable stay and fosters a responsible camping community.

But the true magic of Reds Meadow Campground lies in its unparalleled access to the region's famous attractions. As one enthusiastic reviewer stated, "This campground is perfect place to stay if you're planning to do hiking at Devil's Postpile and Rainbow Falls," both of which are "easily accessible to trails" directly from the campground. This means you can hit the trails at sunrise or before sunset, avoiding the crowds that arrive on the shuttles, providing a more intimate and serene experience of these natural marvels. It’s no wonder that a family who first camped here in 2010, and who has since camped multiple times a year, chose Reds Meadow "last minute" for an unplanned trip, confirming it as a consistently "wonderful experience" and a place they'll "for sure keep coming back to."

Reds Meadow Campground is ideally situated at CA-203, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA, placing it deep within the scenic Reds Meadow Valley, part of the Inyo National Forest in the Eastern Sierra. This location is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, high elevation (typically around 7,500 feet), and proximity to some of California's most iconic geological and natural attractions.

Access to Reds Meadow Valley, and thus the campground, is primarily via CA-203 from Mammoth Lakes. It's important to note that during the peak summer season (roughly mid-June to early September, exact dates vary by year), private vehicle access to Reds Meadow Road (the road leading to the campground) is restricted between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM. During these hours, visitors typically use the mandatory Reds Meadow Shuttle Bus service from the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge to access the valley's attractions, including the campground. Campers staying at Reds Meadow Campground are often permitted to drive their vehicles to and from their campsites at any time, but this should always be verified with current regulations upon arrival or with the Forest Service.

The road itself is paved but can be winding. Due to heavy snowfall in the High Sierra, Reds Meadow Road is typically closed from late fall through late spring/early summer. Campers must always check current road status and shuttle operating schedules with the Inyo National Forest or local visitor centers before planning their trip. Despite the access considerations, the remote yet accessible nature of the valley ensures a pristine and unforgettable wilderness experience, free from excessive traffic and urban noise.

Reds Meadow Campground provides a well-maintained and surprisingly comfortable camping experience, combining rustic charm with key amenities. Based on customer reviews and standard Forest Service offerings, services include:

• 52 First-Come, First-Served Campsites: The campground offers 52 individual campsites. Crucially, these are "NO RESERVATIONS or not reservable," operating on a first-come, first-served (FCFS) basis. This provides flexibility for last-minute trips. Sites vary in size, from "big or small," and offer a mix of "shaded or meadow areas," accommodating diverse camping preferences.
• Natural Hot Water Access: A highly praised and unique feature is the availability of very hot natural water near the creek. While the old bathhouse is closed, campers cleverly utilize this hot water for "warm showers or bath at night" using camping shower bags, and also for "wash your pots and pans." They even have a "small pool of it."
• Clean Pit Toilets: The campground boasts "cleanest pit toilets" which are described as "new solar powered pit toilets." Camp hosts diligently clean and check them "2x a day," ensuring high levels of hygiene even when the campground is full.
• Bear Lockers: Bear-resistant food storage lockers are provided at each site and are meticulously kept clean by the camp hosts. This is essential for safety in bear country.
• Camp Hosts: Dedicated and helpful camp hosts are on-site. Reviewers commend them for "keeping it clean" and for being "so nice and helpful with what else to do and experience in the area," offering valuable local tips to avoid crowds.
• Trash Collection: Designated receptacles for trash are available to help maintain the cleanliness of the campground and surrounding environment.
• Water Faucets: Access to cold water faucets is available, useful for mixing with the natural hot water for desired shower temperatures.

Reds Meadow Campground is packed with features and highlights that make it a standout destination for California locals seeking adventure and relaxation:

• Unparalleled Trail Access: The campground offers direct and easy access to some of the Eastern Sierra's most iconic trails.
  • Devils Postpile National Monument: Easily accessible across the street, allowing campers to visit at "sunrise and before sunset" to "avoid the crowds."
  • Rainbow Falls: Also easily accessible, with the option to continue to "Lower Falls past Rainbow Falls" for a chance to "swim there."
  • Sotcher Lake: Two trails lead directly from the campground to this beautiful lake.
  • Reds Meadow Resort Trail: Provides convenient access to the resort amenities.
• Natural Hot Water for Showers/Washing: The unique availability of very hot natural water near the creek is a major highlight, allowing for warm showers and easy cleaning, greatly enhancing the comfort of a rustic camping experience.
• Immaculately Clean Facilities: Despite being pit toilets, their exceptional cleanliness, thanks to diligent camp hosts, is consistently praised by visitors, making for a much more pleasant experience than expected.
• First-Come, First-Served Flexibility: With 52 FCFS sites, it offers a fantastic option for last-minute trips, allowing spontaneous adventures without the stress of advance reservations.
• Knowledgeable and Helpful Camp Hosts: The camp hosts go above and beyond, not only maintaining cleanliness but also providing invaluable advice on local activities, trails, and how to avoid popular tourist times.
• Proximity to Reds Meadow Resort: While distinct from the campground, the nearby Reds Meadow Resort (reachable via trail or short drive/shuttle) offers additional services like a general store, pack station, and potentially a cafe, adding convenience.
• Wildlife Viewing: The High Sierra environment offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, though visitors should always practice bear safety with provided lockers.
• Diverse Site Options: With a variety of large, small, shaded, or meadow sites, campers can often find a spot that perfectly suits their needs.
• Other Nearby Recreation: Opportunities for "rafting, fishing and picnicking at Starkweather Lake" (where the "water is so clean") offer additional activities beyond the immediate trails.

For Reds Meadow Campground, while it operates on a first-come, first-served basis for camping, inquiries about current conditions, road status (especially the Reds Meadow Road shuttle schedule and opening/closing dates), fire restrictions, and general area information should be directed to the Inyo National Forest or the Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center.

Address: CA-203, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA

General Contact for Inyo National Forest / Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center (always verify current numbers, as they can change):

Phone: (760) 924-5500

Mobile Phone: +1 760-924-5500 (This number typically connects to the Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center or Inyo National Forest general information.)

It is paramount for California locals planning a trip to Reds Meadow to check the current operational status of Reds Meadow Road and the shuttle bus schedule, as private vehicle access is restricted during peak hours. Cell phone service can be unreliable in remote areas of the High Sierra, so it's advisable to download or print all necessary maps, regulations, and contact information before you depart.

For California locals, Reds Meadow Campground represents an extraordinary opportunity to experience the unparalleled beauty of the Eastern Sierra with a rare blend of convenience and authentic wilderness immersion. Its prime location near Mammoth Lakes means that a breathtaking High Sierra escape is within a manageable driving distance for many, making it perfect for both planned vacations and spontaneous "last minute" adventures, as many loyal visitors can attest.

What truly sets Reds Meadow apart for Californians is its direct and easy access to iconic natural wonders like Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls. Being able to step directly from your campsite onto trails leading to these magnificent sites, and to visit them at sunrise or sunset to avoid the crowds, offers an experience far superior to day-tripping from more distant accommodations. This direct access fosters a deeper connection with the landscape and allows for more flexible exploration.

The unexpected amenities, such as the natural hot water for washing and the impeccably clean pit toilets (thanks to dedicated camp hosts), elevate the camping experience beyond typical rustic sites. These thoughtful touches significantly enhance comfort, especially after a long day of hiking, making it suitable even for those who might typically prefer more developed facilities. The first-come, first-served system, while requiring a bit of flexibility, provides an exciting opportunity for Californians to embark on impromptu trips, as demonstrated by the family who found it to be the perfect unplanned alternative when their other reservations fell through.

Ultimately, Reds Meadow Campground offers California locals a unique and highly rewarding camping adventure. It’s a place where you can embrace the rugged beauty of the High Sierra, enjoy the convenience of exceptional trail access, and benefit from surprisingly comfortable facilities, all contributing to an unforgettable experience that will surely have you "for sure keep coming back to this campground."

Reds Meadow Campground

CA-203, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA