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Twin Lakes Campground: Lakeside Camping Paradise

Escape to Twin Lakes Campground in Mammoth Lakes: Lakeside camping, breathtaking scenery, and endless outdoor adventures await in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada.

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Nestled in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near Mammoth Lakes, Twin Lakes Campground offers a quintessential lakeside camping experience. With breathtaking scenery, the campground provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground is split into three sections, with campsites on both shores of Twin Lakes, some nestled right along the water's edge. Amenities include picnic tables, campfire rings, flush toilets, drinking water, and a general store with boat rentals and camping supplies. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an adventurous escape, Twin Lakes Campground provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.

A brief summary to Twin Lakes Campground

Local tips

  • Book your campsite well in advance, especially during peak season (summer months), as Twin Lakes Campground is a popular destination and fills up quickly.
  • Be bear aware! Store all food in the provided food storage lockers or inside your vehicle to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife to your campsite.
  • Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the Eastern Sierra can be unpredictable, with warm days and cool nights, even in the summer.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center, head west on CA-203/Main St toward Old Mammoth Rd. Continue to follow CA-203/Main St for approximately 6 miles. CA-203 becomes Lake Mary Rd. Continue on Lake Mary Rd to the Twin Lakes cutoff. Follow the signs to Twin Lakes Campground. Parking is available at the campground, but can be limited during peak season. An extra vehicle fee per day may be assessed for the second vehicle in each single-family campsite. Contact the Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center at (760) 924-5500 for current road conditions or weather closures.

  • Public Transport

    During the summer, the Mammoth Lakes Trolley provides access to the Lakes Basin, including Twin Lakes. From various stops in Mammoth Lakes, take the Orange Line to the Lakes Basin. From the Lakes Basin drop-off point, follow the signs to Twin Lakes Campground. Check the Mammoth Lakes Transit website or call ESTA (Eastern Sierra Transit Authority) at (800) 922-1930 or (760) 924-3184 for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. The trolley is free.

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Discover more about Twin Lakes Campground

Twin Lakes Campground, a jewel in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, offers an idyllic escape into the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Situated at an elevation of 8,600 feet, the campground is cradled by the majestic Mammoth Mountain and the serene Twin Lakes, creating a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The campground's location provides easy access to a plethora of activities, making it a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Twin Lakes Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to a world of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The campground itself is divided into three distinct sections, each offering a unique camping experience. Sections 1 and 2 are located on the western side of the lakes, closer to the shoreline, providing campers with stunning views and easy access to the water. Section 3 is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and forests. Regardless of which section you choose, you'll be surrounded by the towering lodgepole pines that provide partial shade and a sense of privacy. The history of Twin Lakes is intertwined with the mining boom of the late 19th century. In 1877, gold was discovered in the area, attracting thousands of prospectors and establishing the town of Mammoth Camp. The lakes served as a crucial water source for the mining operations, powering mills and providing sustenance for the growing population. While the mining boom eventually subsided, the natural beauty of the area continued to draw visitors, leading to the development of tourism and recreation. Today, Twin Lakes Campground stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Eastern Sierra. The campground offers a wide range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, and food storage locker to protect your provisions from wildlife. Flush toilets and drinking water are readily available throughout the campground, and hot showers are available for a small fee at the general store. The general store also offers boat rentals, camping supplies, fishing tackle, and other essentials. For those seeking adventure, Twin Lakes Campground is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. The lakes themselves are a prime location for fishing, with anglers casting for rainbow, brook, and brown trout. Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are also popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the calm waters and admire the cascading waterfall that flows into the lake. Several trails offer a variety of hiking opportunities, including the 4-mile trail on Mammoth Mountain and two shorter nature trails along the lakes. The Lakes Basin Path, a paved bike path, winds through the campground, providing easy access to other attractions in the area. The path connects to the Tamarack Lodge, a historic landmark that offers dining and lodging options. The Mammoth Lakes Trolley also provides access to the Lakes Basin, allowing visitors to explore the area without having to drive. Beyond the immediate vicinity of the campground, the Inyo National Forest offers endless opportunities for adventure. The John Muir Wilderness, a vast expanse of pristine wilderness, is easily accessible from Twin Lakes, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, a popular skiing destination, provides year-round recreation, with skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Twin Lakes Campground is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The mountains are abundant with black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika, and many species of fish and birds. Keep an eye out for these creatures as you explore the area, but remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, Twin Lakes Campground offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sierra Nevada. With its stunning scenery, abundant recreational opportunities, and convenient amenities, it's no wonder that this campground is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Be sure to reserve your campsite well in advance, especially during the peak season, to secure your spot in this lakeside paradise.

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