Group Camping in Mammoth Lakes

March 24, 2026

For groups of 15-30 who want to reserve a campsite together, group camping is the perfect solution.

Whether you want to pitch a tent with views of an alpine lake or under a forest of Jeffrey Pine, there are plenty of places to camp as a group in Mammoth Lakes. Plan your summer group camping trip to Mammoth Lakes in advance, as group campgrounds in Mammoth Lakes tend to book early.

Group Campgrounds In Mammoth Lakes

Note: first-time campers at altitude should check the high altitude tips page. Mammoth Lakes sits at 7,880 ft and the campgrounds in the Lakes Basin sit even higher.

Choose from a variety of group campgrounds in the Mammoth Lakes area. Each group campsite offers a different experience and unique access to Mammoth Lakes’ many scenic wonders.

Camp in the Mammoth Lakes Basin (accessible via the ESTA Lakes Basin Trolley) for easy access to hiking trails and alpine lakes. Or head to Reds Meadow (also accessible via the ESTA Reds Meadow Shuttle) to camp near hiking trails, with access to Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls.

Looking for information specific to camping in RVs? Get details about RV camping in Mammoth Lakes.

Group Campgrounds in the Mammoth Lakes Basin

Pine Glen Group Campground

The Lakes Basin puts your group within easy reach of hiking trails and alpine lakes—most trailheads are a short walk or shuttle ride from the campgrounds.

Group Campgrounds in Reds Meadow (Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls area)

*Note: Reds Meadow Campground will be the only campground open in the valley this summer, projected to open July 2, 2026. Other campgrounds in the Reds Meadow Valley area will be closed for the 2026 season (including Minaret Falls, Upper Soda Springs, and all group campgrounds).

When Do Group Campgrounds In Mammoth Lakes Open?

Opening dates for campgrounds in Mammoth Lakes depend on winter snowfall and springtime temperatures. On lighter snow years campgrounds may open as early as late May or early June. However, on years when snowfall totals are higher, campgrounds may not open until late June or early July.

Campgrounds in Mammoth Lakes usually stay open into the fall, although closing dates may vary by the campground and are based on weather.

For details about when campgrounds in Mammoth Lakes are open this year, view the Mammoth Lakes Campground Report.

How To Book A Group Campsite In Mammoth Lakes

Most campgrounds in Mammoth Lakes are run by the U.S. Forest Service. You can reserve a U.S. Forest Service campsite by booking online at recreation.gov, where you can search for campsites in Mammoth Lakes listed above.

Reservations for group camping are recommended throughout the summer.

All campgrounds in Mammoth Lakes are in active bear country. Group campers should plan for bear-resistant food storage—bear boxes are available at most sites, and all food and scented items must be stored properly. Read our bear safety guide before you arrive.

More to Do Around Your Campsite

Group camping in Mammoth Lakes puts you at the center of one of the best outdoor recreation areas in California. From your campsite, you can access hiking and backpacking trails across the Inyo National Forest, alpine lakes for kayaking and paddleboarding, and family-friendly activities for groups traveling with kids. Check the summer activities hub for a full picture of what's available during your stay.

Author

Meghan Miranda

Meghan has been living and playing in Mammoth Lakes since 2016. She enjoys any outdoor activities that her dogs can tag along for. See more of Meghan's adventures on her blog Meg Moves Mountains.