Bishop Park Campground is a scenic, high-elevation campground in Inyo National Forest along the Middle Fork of Bishop Creek, just west of the town of Bishop, California. Situated at approximately 8,400 feet in the beautiful Bishop Creek Canyon of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, it offers a serene alpine setting with grassy lawns, direct creek access, and many walk-in tent sites right along the water.
The campground is popular with families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts due to its peaceful creekside location, proximity to trailheads into the John Muir Wilderness, and easy access to nearby lakes and attractions. It features a mix of sites, though it is best suited for tents and smaller RVs (large rigs and trailers are generally not recommended). Many sites have beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and aspen groves, which turn vibrant in the fall.
Amenities
Bishop Park Campground typically includes the following facilities:
- 21 single-family campsites (many walk-in tent sites; a few suitable for smaller vehicles/RVs).
- Picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and tent pads at each site.
- Bear-proof food storage lockers (essential, as this is an active bear area).
- Flush toilets.
- Potable drinking water.
- Trash collection.
- Grassy areas and creekside access.
- Group camping options are available nearby at the Bishop Park Group site.
No hookups, showers, or dump stations are available. Reservations are strongly recommended (often required) through Recreation.gov, especially during peak summer months. Firewood may be available for purchase, and camp hosts are usually on site.
Activities
The campground and surrounding area support a wide range of outdoor recreation:
- Fishing: Excellent creek fishing right from many campsites for rainbow, brown, brook, and Alpers trout. Intake Lake II is just upstream for additional opportunities. Nearby Lake Sabrina is also popular.
- Hiking: Direct access to trails into the John Muir Wilderness, with routes leading to alpine lakes, glaciers, and backcountry terrain. Popular nearby trails include those toward Bishop Pass and other high Sierra destinations.
- Horseback riding: Available via local pack stations; trails are suitable for riders.
- Wildlife viewing: Prime location for observing animals in their natural habitat.
- Other activities: Picnicking, photography (especially fall colors), stargazing (dark skies at elevation), relaxing by the creek, and exploring nearby lakes and aspens. The area also serves as a great base for day trips to Mammoth Lakes, Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, or Mono Lake.
Wildlife in the Area
The Eastern Sierra around Bishop Park is rich in biodiversity. Common and notable wildlife includes:
- Mammals: Mule deer (very common), black bears (frequent visitors—proper food storage is mandatory), coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions (less commonly seen), marmots, jackrabbits, and occasionally bighorn sheep (Sierra and Desert varieties in the broader region).
- Birds: Various songbirds, raptors like golden eagles, and waterfowl near lakes and streams.
- Other: Wild mustangs (in certain nearby areas), and smaller rodents/reptiles typical of the alpine and high-desert transition zones.
Note: Always practice bear safety—keep a clean camp and use provided bear boxes. Pets must be leashed, and feeding wildlife is prohibited.
Bishop Park Campground makes an ideal base for exploring the Eastern Sierra’s natural wonders, combining convenient amenities with immersive wilderness access. It’s especially lovely in summer for escaping valley heat and in autumn for fall foliage. Always check current conditions, fire restrictions, and availability on Recreation.gov or the Inyo National Forest website before planning your trip.