This article is last updated on March 3, 2021.

The whole world is suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic in different ways, shapes, and forms.

Some countries have successfully contained it and flattened the curve with no new cases and transmissions over a considerable amount of time. Others are still figuring out how else to educate, inform, and discipline people into understanding that COVID-19 is real and definitely not a hoax.

The effect of COVID-19 has been felt on so many levels and in so many aspects: economies, businesses, health care, lifestyle, relationships, and travel.

But our lives can’t stop just because of the pandemic. We cannot stop living and enjoying what life has to offer — as long as we follow safety protocols set in place by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Here at Mammoth Lakes, we are happy to inform you that we have open campgrounds ready to accommodate you, and activities you can still enjoy while camping with us.

This is COVID-19 camping. This is camping in The New Normal.

Open Campgrounds in Mammoth Lakes During COVID-19

 

Stay at Home Restrictions has been Lifted

Good news for us all! The Regional and Limited Stay Home Orders have been lifted! The Regional Stay Home Order announced last December 3, 2020, and the Limited Stay Home Order that took effect last November 21, 2020, have both ended starting January 25, 2021, as the projected ICU availability over four weeks in all regions rose to more than 15%. They are no longer in effect in any county in California. That means we’re free to enjoy camping once more! With social distancing and proper hygiene, of course.

Mammoth Lakes Open Campgrounds

We have eleven campgrounds and more than 700 sites for you to stay in, relax, de-stress, decompress, and enjoy nature. They are:

 

Camp High Sierra – 37 sites

Since 1921, Camp High Sierra has been a family camping destination. Located in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, this campground provides historical recreation and spectacular views of the Sherwins, Mammoth Mountains, and the Mammoth Crest. For over a century, this campground has been a favorite of many. It offers tent and RV sites with hook-ups, rustic bunk-style cabins, and hot showers for all the guests.

Coldwater Campground – 74 sites

Located high up the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near the town of Mammoth Lakes, this campsite is surrounded by a national forest with lots of activities you can do. You can stroll along the creeks, trailheads, and a historic mining site. The sites have space for RVs up to 30 feet in length. Activities within the area include fishing, boating, hiking, biking, picnicking, etc.

Lake George – 15 sites

The fifteen sites of the Lake George Campground are perched along the scenic lake, 9,000 feet above sea level. It is a dry camping ground popular among fishermen that shares a small parking lot with hiking trailheads, a boat rental dock, and a few cabins. Be careful, though, because it is considered an active bear area. Swimming is also not allowed. The campground offers bear boxes, flush toilets, and potable water.

Lake Mary Campground – 48 sites

Lake Mary is the star of the Mammoth Lakes region. Of the 11 lakes in the area, Mary is the largest and most developed. Lake Mary Campground is a large facility with plenty of amenities in and around it. The lake provides a great base for activities like fishing, viewing waterfalls, hiking, and backpacking.

Mammoth Mountain RV – 154 sites

Mammoth Mountain RV Park is open all-year-round. It offers RV partial and full hook-ups, rustic cabins, and tent campsites in the beautiful alpine town of Mammoth Lakes. The campground is located near the entrance of the town, across from the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center and Ranger Station on Main Street.

New Shady Rest Campground – 93 sites

New Shady Rest Campground is a large facility popular for being convenient to numerous outdoor activities and attractions in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains. Hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing are among the favorite activities you can do at the campground. The facility is near the town of Mammoth Lakes, where you can shop and dine. It can accommodate both tents and RVs.

Old Shady Rest Campground – 45 sites

Situated 7,800 feet above sea level, Old Shady Rest Campground is an ideal site for numerous outdoor activities and attractions in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is a great spot for hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing. Being within walking distance of the full-service community of Mammoth Lakes, the campground offers a lot of conveniences. The facility best accommodates tents and small to medium-sized RVs.

 

Pine Glen Group – 18 sites

Pine Glen is a group camping facility located in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, within walking distance of the full-service community of Mammoth Lakes. The campground is popular for large groups. It has access to a variety of activities, from fishing and mountain biking to hiking and photography. It also doesn’t come short of breathtaking views of the Sierras.

Twin Lakes Campground – 94 sites

Twin Lakes Campground is located in the heart of the Mammoth Lakes Basin. It offers lakeside camping with breathtaking scenery and many outdoor activities, including boat rentals. The lake is a great base for fishing, boating, viewing waterfalls and hiking, and offers close proximity to the town’s amenities. Please note spaces 56, 60, 61, and 62 are not available for parking.

All campgrounds — except for Pine City and Lake George — accept reservations online via recreation.gov. For Camp High Sierra, call 800-MAMMOTH.

Recreate Responsibly

1. Some practices to be observed are:

● Research on local COVID-19 closures
● Be ready for limited services
● Observe permitting requirements

2. Now, more than ever is the time to be a responsible camper by:

● Respecting the land and leaving no trace
● Camping on durable surfaces
● Disposing of waste properly
● Leaving what you find
● Respecting wildlife
● Keeping in mind that there are other visitors, not just you

3. Some local regulations and safety guidelines to observe are:

● When hiking, the passing protocol during the pandemic is to put your mask on and step off the trail at least six feet, or as far as safely possible
● When fishing with any members outside of your household or accommodations, stay at least six feet apart and wear your mask
● When biking, ride in a single-file line and stick to one side of the path, allowing plenty of space for others to pass. Wear your mask.

Watch this video on Recreation Etiquette Guidelines from Mammoth Hospital:

Yes, life goes on and camping continues in Mammoth Lakes despite COVID-19. With your cooperation, we can all still enjoy the beauty of nature and each other’s company and stay safe and healthy. For other FAQs, visit this link.

HAPPY CAMPING!

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