Tag: Inyo National Forest

Rock Creek Lake Campground

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Rock Creek Lake Campground, located in Mono County, California, is a picturesque alpine lake set amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. At an elevation of about 9,600 feet, Rock Creek Lake is tranquil lake is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Rock Creek Lake Campground
Rock Creek Lake Campground

Natural Beauty

Surrounded by towering pine trees and rugged mountain peaks, Rock Creek Lake offers stunning views that change with the seasons. In the spring and summer, wildflowers dot the meadows, and the clear blue waters of the lake reflect the surrounding landscape. In the fall, the area is painted with vibrant hues of gold and orange as the aspen trees change color. During the winter, the lake and its surroundings are blanketed in snow, creating a peaceful winter wonderland.

Facilities

Rock Creek Lake Campgrounds campsites are well-spaced along the lake shore, with several tent-only, walk-in sites overlooking the lake. Boat rentals, educational programs, groceries and showers are all nearby. Firewood is available on-site for a fee. Bears inhabit the area, so bear-proof lockers are provided for campers to store food.

The campsites at Rock Creek Lake sit on a low hill with scattered aspen and lodgepole pine trees overlooking the lake’s crystal blue waters. At an elevation of 9,600 feet, the facility affords visitors excellent mountain views.

The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martin, pika and many species of fish and birds.

Recreation

Rock Creek and other waterways in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for exceptional trout fishing. A catch from the lake may include brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout, while anglers may be treated to golden trout in the backcountry. Power boats on the lake are limited to electric motors only.

The area’s majestic scenery and challenging trails are a draw for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. The Tamarack Trail begins in the campground and wanders up to several high-elevation, glacially-carved alpine lakes and ponds.

Campground Summary

Campground NameRock Creek Lake Campground
Latitude, Longitude37.4526, -118.7324
Sites25
Elevation9,600 ft
AmmenitiesBear Boxes, Fire rings, Table, Flust Toilets, Shower, Water, Camp host

Rock Creek Lake Campground Map

References

French Camp Campground

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Camping in the High Sierras is not as easy as it once was, however this fact offers one the ability to explore and remove oneself from their comfort zone.  French Camp campground was the result of just this fact for me and as result, I found a little gem in the High Sierra.  

French Camp Campground is located along Rock Creek in the Inyo National Forest
French Camp Campground is located along Rock Creek in the Inyo National Forest

On our last trip, we planned on visiting and exploring the High Sierra.  Immediately, we planned on returning to Convict Lake.  Perhaps Lake Mary or Twin Lakes Campground in Mammoth Mountain however all of these campgrounds where sold out for our time period. I did not want to relocate our campsite during the course of our trip.

Each campsite had quite a bit of room and the undergrowth was such that you did have a bit of privacy. There was a lot of trees to offer shade on a warm June day. Each location had a table and fire ring. The soil is sanding and this old campground has quiet a bit of soot and charcoal mixed into to it from years of fires. This could mean an interesting and frequent clean up period with children.

The flush bathrooms were centrally located and cleaned on a regulate basis. Rock creek ran along the northern side of the campground and allowed for easy creek access for fishing.

French Camp , like many High Sierra Campgrounds does have California Black Bear from time to time. During our stay, there was bear activity. One report had a bear come into camp while a family was having dinner. This bear apparently helped itself to several rolls while the family looked on.

French Camp Campground is just one a string the campgrounds along Rock Creek. The campground host at French Camp was a very personable man, who did a great job keeping the place clean and greeting the campers.

Directions

From Bishop go north on Hwy 395 approximately 23 miles to Tom’s Place.  Turn southwest on Rock Creek Road and go approximately one mile to the campground on the right.

Campground Summary

Campground NameFrench Camp
Latitude, Longitude37.552500, -118.679167
Sites86
Elevation7200 ft
AmmenitiesBear Boxes, Fire rings, Table, Flust Toilets, Shower, Water, Camp host

French Camp Trail Map