Table Mountain Group Campground

For California locals, especially those looking to gather a larger group for an unforgettable outdoor experience, Table Mountain Group Campground near Bishop, California, presents an exceptional opportunity. Nestled within the breathtaking Inyo National Forest, this campground is designed specifically to accommodate groups, offering a unique blend of spaciousness, essential amenities, and unparalleled natural beauty. We understand that organizing a group camping trip in California requires finding a location that not only provides ample space but also offers captivating surroundings and convenient access to outdoor activities. Table Mountain Group Campground rises to this challenge, promising a truly memorable escape into the heart of the Eastern Sierra.

This overview is crafted to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what makes Table Mountain Group Campground an ideal choice for your next California group adventure. We'll explore its stunning location, highlighting its accessibility and proximity to the region's most iconic natural wonders. We'll detail the services and facilities tailored for group camping, ensuring comfort and convenience for up to 25 guests. Furthermore, we'll delve into the unique features and highlights that consistently draw visitors, including the spectacular fall colors and the general 'gorgeous' atmosphere. Our aim is to equip you with all the information needed to confidently plan your group's visit, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience from the moment you arrive. Join us as we explore why Table Mountain Group Campground is perfectly suited for locals seeking a harmonious blend of group camaraderie and majestic Sierra wilderness.

Table Mountain Group Campground is located approximately 18 miles southwest of Bishop, California, along the South Fork of Bishop Creek. Its address is Bishop, CA 93514, USA, placing it firmly within the renowned Inyo National Forest. This location is a significant draw for California locals, as it serves as a gateway to the spectacular Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains.

Accessibility to Table Mountain Group Campground typically involves driving west from Highway 395 in Bishop. From the center of Bishop, you would turn west on Line Street (Highway 168) and continue for about 13 miles toward Lake Sabrina and Aspendell. From there, specific directions to the campground involve turning onto South Lake Road and then potentially South Fork Road. While the drive is scenic and well-maintained for most of the route, the final approach to campgrounds in this mountainous region might involve narrower roads. It is always advisable to check current road conditions, especially during shoulder seasons, as mountain roads can be subject to closures or require specific vehicle considerations.

For Californians traveling from Southern California, such as the Los Angeles area, the drive to Bishop is typically a scenic 4-5 hour journey along US-395 North. From Northern California, including the Bay Area or Sacramento, the drive is longer but equally picturesque, generally involving heading east to connect with US-395 South. The beauty of this location is that while the campground offers a remote and natural setting, the town of Bishop is within a reasonable distance (18 miles). This means that essential services like grocery stores, gas stations, outdoor gear outfitters, and local dining options are accessible for any last-minute needs or desires.

It is important to note that Table Mountain Group Campground is designed for tent camping only, and while there is a parking area that fits about 9 vehicles, "no RV or overnight camping in parking lot" is permitted. Campsites are a short walk from this parking area, contributing to the quiet and natural ambiance of the group site. This semi-walk-in access, combined with its location adjacent to Bishop Creek and within the vast Inyo National Forest, ensures a truly immersive and accessible wilderness experience for large groups of California locals.

Services Offered:

• Single group campsite accommodating up to 25 guests, ideal for large family gatherings, scout troops, or friend groups.
• Tent camping only; the site is not suitable for RVs or trailers in the designated group area.
• Campsite tables are provided for comfortable meal preparation and dining.
• Fire rings available for campfires, perfect for evening gatherings and cooking (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Vault toilets are available for sanitation, maintained for cleanliness.
• Food storage lockers (bear boxes) are provided, essential for securing food from wildlife in this active bear area.
• No piped water available; campers should bring their own drinking water or be prepared to filter from Bishop Creek.
• A short walk from the parking area to the actual campsite, enhancing the secluded feel.
• Generally open from late May to mid-September, aligning with the prime Sierra Nevada camping season.
• Reservations are required and open on a 12-month rolling basis; due to popularity, the site sells out quickly.
• No cell service, promoting a true disconnection and focus on outdoor activities.
• Pet-friendly (specific guidelines apply, including leash requirements and bear awareness).

Features / Highlights:

• Ideal for Group Camping: Specifically designed for larger groups (up to 25 people), offering a dedicated space for communal gatherings.
• "Best to go during fall when the colors come out to play": A direct quote from a satisfied customer, highlighting the spectacular autumn foliage, making it a prime destination for fall camping.
• "Gorgeous" Scenery: Visitors consistently describe the area as beautiful, with breathtaking views of the Inconsolable Range, peaks, glaciers, and lakes.
• Adjacent to Bishop Creek: Enjoy the serene sounds and fishing opportunities in the bountiful trout-filled Bishop Creek.
• Access to John Muir Wilderness: Near multiple trailheads, including the Tyee Lakes Trail, offering incredible hiking and horseback riding opportunities with epic views.
• Immersive Inyo National Forest Experience: Surrounded by a variety of conifers like Jeffrey pine, providing a classic Sierra forest ambiance.
• Wildlife Viewing: The pristine natural setting offers excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Stargazing: Far from urban light pollution, the night skies provide spectacular views of the stars.
• Secluded Tent Camping: The walk-in, tent-only nature of the site ensures a quieter, more intimate group experience.

Contact Information:

Address: Bishop, CA 93514, USA

For reservations and specific information, contact the Inyo National Forest White Mountain Ranger District. While no direct phone number for the campground itself is typically available, general inquiries can be directed to the Forest Service. Reservations for group sites like Table Mountain are usually made through the National Recreation Reservation Service or similar platforms, such as Recreation.gov. The general phone number for the Inyo National Forest is (760) 873-2500.

For California locals seeking an unparalleled group camping experience, Table Mountain Group Campground stands out as an exceptional choice. Its location 18 miles southwest of Bishop, deep within the magnificent Inyo National Forest, provides a genuinely immersive wilderness retreat that is still accessible enough for a well-planned trip. The primary appeal for Californians lies in its dedicated group site, accommodating up to 25 people, which is ideal for family reunions, friends' getaways, or organized group events, allowing for shared memories amidst stunning natural beauty.

The glowing reviews, particularly highlighting the "gorgeous" scenery and the recommendation to visit "during fall when the colors come out to play," resonate deeply with the local appreciation for California's diverse landscapes. This campground offers a quintessential Eastern Sierra experience, from the pristine waters of Bishop Creek to the surrounding majestic peaks, glaciers, and lakes. For outdoor enthusiasts, the immediate access to the John Muir Wilderness and various trailheads for hiking and horseback riding is an enormous advantage, providing endless opportunities for exploration and adventure right from the campsite.

Furthermore, the primitive yet well-equipped nature of the site, with vault toilets, bear boxes, and fire rings, strikes a balance that many Californian campers appreciate – a back-to-basics experience with essential comforts. The tent-only, walk-in access ensures a quieter atmosphere, free from the noise of large RVs, fostering a more intimate connection with the natural environment. While reservations are required and the site sells out quickly, this reflects its high demand among those in the know, signifying its value as a premier group camping destination.

In conclusion, Table Mountain Group Campground is perfectly suited for California locals who desire a peaceful, beautiful, and accommodating space for their larger group outings. It offers a unique opportunity to create lasting memories against the backdrop of the Eastern Sierra's most stunning vistas, making it an indispensable gem for those looking to embrace the Golden State's magnificent outdoors.

For more insights into the campground, you can watch this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzWCLqBPUF8)

Table Mountain Group Campground

Bishop, CA 93514, USA