Taboose Creek Campground

For Californians seeking a truly tranquil and picturesque escape into the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Taboose Creek Campground offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled alongside its namesake babbling creek, this hidden gem near Independence provides a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a place where the primary soundtrack is the gentle murmur of flowing water, the cheerful chirping of birds, and the occasional scamper of local wildlife. Californians who cherish quietude, breathtaking natural beauty, and a direct connection with the outdoors will find Taboose Creek Campground to be an ideal destination. It provides a peaceful basecamp for exploring the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and the vast, star-filled skies that define this iconic region of our state.

Taboose Creek Campground is located near Independence, CA 93526, USA, specifically off U.S. Highway 395. This well-known scenic highway is a vital artery for Californians traveling through the Owens Valley, making the campground readily accessible. To reach the campground, you'll turn west onto Taboose Creek Road from Highway 395, approximately 14 miles north of Independence or about 19 miles south of Big Pine. The campground is situated roughly 2 miles down Taboose Creek Road. The road is generally well-maintained and passable for various vehicles, including RVs, making the journey straightforward for most campers. Its location strikes a perfect balance: far enough off the main highway to ensure peace and quiet, yet close enough to the small town of Independence (or Big Pine to the north) for convenient access to supplies, gas, and any other necessities. This strategic positioning allows Californian campers to easily reach their tranquil oasis while retaining the convenience of nearby amenities.

Taboose Creek Campground, managed by Inyo County Parks & Recreation, offers a range of essential services designed to provide a comfortable yet rustic camping experience. While it doesn't boast full hookups, its core amenities are well-maintained and cater to the needs of those seeking a more natural setting.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 35-38 campsites suitable for both tent camping and RVs up to 30-35 feet. Sites are generally spacious, level, and often have a sandy surface, with some offering partial shade.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy outdoor cooking and campfires (when conditions allow and with any necessary permits).
• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets (also known as pit toilets) are conveniently located throughout the campground. Reviews confirm they are well-maintained.
• Potable Water: Potable water is generally available from a "water well" or "artisan well" at the campground, with some reviews praising its quality. However, it's important to note that water is typically turned off during winter months (November to March), and in some instances, may not be available for filling large RV tanks, or may be limited to "a few gallons a day." Campers should always confirm availability before relying solely on the campground's water source.
• Stream Access: Direct access to Taboose Creek provides opportunities for stream fishing (license required for ages 16+ during fishing season, typically late April to November 15). The sound of the running creek is a constant, soothing feature.
• Automated Pay Station: An automated pay station is available, accepting credit cards or cash, making payment easy and convenient. The fee is currently around $14 per vehicle per night, with an additional $5 for extra vehicles.
• Long-Term Stays: Stays of up to 14 days are typically allowed, with possibilities for extended stays up to 30 days with a permit from the BLM office.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join in the outdoor adventure.
• Trash Disposal: Dumpsters are available for trash disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.
• No Hookups: It's important to note that the campground does not offer RV hookups (electric, water, sewer). This is primarily a dry camping experience.
• No Showers: Shower facilities are not available at the campground.

Taboose Creek Campground's allure lies in its distinct features and highlights, which consistently earn it praise from Californian visitors seeking a specific type of outdoor experience.

• Exceptional Quietude: The most celebrated feature is its profound quietness. Campers consistently rave about the peaceful atmosphere, where the dominant sounds are natural: "only the sound of the running creek, birds chirping," and the occasional rustle of small wildlife. This provides a true escape from urban noise.
• Stunning Stargazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, the campground offers "millions of stars in the night sky." This makes it an incredible spot for stargazing and astrophotography, a significant draw for many Californians.
• Creek-Side Ambiance: Many sites are directly alongside Taboose Creek, providing the soothing sound of running water and adding to the peaceful and relaxing ambiance. "The creek runs directly along the back of the site."
• Beautiful Mountain Views: Situated at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the campground offers "spectacular views" of the high Sierra peaks and the Owens Valley, providing a picturesque backdrop for every campsite.
• Affordable Camping: With a daily fee of around $14, Taboose Creek Campground offers an incredibly affordable camping experience in a prime Eastern Sierra location, making it accessible to more Californians.
• Proximity to Hiking: The area provides access to nearby trails, including the challenging Taboose Pass Trail into the John Muir Wilderness, offering extensive hiking opportunities for all skill levels.
• Stream Fishing: The presence of Taboose Creek allows for stream fishing, adding another recreational activity for those who enjoy angling.
• Wildlife Viewing: The campground's natural setting means frequent visits from local wildlife such as "Raccoon, squirrel or lizard," enhancing the immersive nature experience.
• Dark Sky Environment: Beyond just stars, the "very dark" nights create a unique and memorable camping experience, perfect for those seeking to truly disconnect.

For those planning their tranquil escape to Taboose Creek Campground, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Independence, CA 93526, USA (Specific access via Taboose Creek Road off US-395)

Phone for Inyo County Parks & Recreation (managing agency): (760) 873-5577

Reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica or sites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Taboose Creek Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for California locals seeking a genuine, peaceful, and affordable outdoor experience in the magnificent Eastern Sierra. For Californians, its primary appeal lies in its unparalleled tranquility; the constant soothing sound of the creek and the absence of highway noise create a truly restorative environment. The opportunity for world-class stargazing under "millions of stars" offers an experience increasingly rare in our light-polluted urban areas. Its convenient access from Highway 395 means less time traveling and more time enjoying the serenity, while still being close enough to the small towns of Independence or Big Pine for any needed supplies. Despite being a primitive campground with no hookups or showers, the provision of clean vault toilets, potable water, and individual fire rings makes for a comfortable stay. For those who prioritize natural beauty, quiet contemplation, and a direct connection to California's stunning wilderness over extensive amenities, Taboose Creek Campground is a cherished local secret, promising "a very peaceful & relaxing experience" that will leave you "already looking forward to our next trip back."

Taboose Creek Campground

Independence, CA 93526, USA