Directions
From Mammoth Lakes, California, drive south on Highway 395 for approximately 13 miles. Take the Tom’s Place exit and proceed west up the canyon for about 10 miles. At the lake, follow the signs to the family campground.
Phone
760-873-2500
Activities
BOATING, CAMPING, INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS, FISHING, HIKING, HORSEBACK RIDING, WILDLIFE VIEWING
Keywords
RCLK,INYO NF – FS
Related Link(s)
California State Road Conditions
Overview
This facility does not accept reservations.
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.
Facilities
The 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.
Natural Features
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.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors have convenient access the magnificent John Muir Wilderness, which stretches for 100 miles along the crest of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is a land of lofty snow-capped mountains, deep canyons and vast expanses of glacially-carved terrain, and offers extensive hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails.
