Minaret Falls Campground is a scenic, rustic campground in the Reds Meadow Valley of Inyo National Forest, near Mammoth Lakes, California. It sits at approximately 7,600–7,700 feet elevation along the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River, offering shaded sites under lodgepole pines with many overlooking the river and nearby waterfalls.
The campground is popular with fishermen, hikers, backpackers, and those seeking a peaceful high-country experience close to natural wonders like Devils Postpile National Monument and Rainbow Falls. It features 27 first-come, first-served sites (no reservations) and is typically open seasonally in summer (roughly June through September, depending on snow conditions). Access involves a narrow, single-lane road with steep sections after the Minaret Vista entrance station (an amenity/entrance fee applies for driving in). It suits tent camping and smaller trailers/RVs best, providing a more primitive feel without hookups.
Amenities
- Campsites: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring/grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (typically 48″ x 30″ x 36″). Some sites offer riverfront views and good privacy thanks to spacing and vegetation.
- Restrooms: Vault toilets.
- Water: Potable water available.
- Other: Trash collection. Nearby Reds Meadow Pack Station and Resort offers a general store, limited groceries, camping supplies, horseback riding, and other services. Mammoth Lakes (about 17–20 miles away, roughly 30 minutes) provides more extensive amenities.
- Fees: Around $23–$32 per night for a single site, plus additional vehicle fees (around $10) and any entrance/amenity fees for Reds Meadow Valley.
- Rules/Notes: Active bear area—food and scented items must be stored in lockers (vehicles are not safe). Dogs must be leashed. Quiet hours 10 p.m.–6 a.m. Cell service is limited or unavailable.
Activities
- Hiking and Backpacking: Direct access to trails, including the short Minaret Falls Trail, routes to Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls (moderate ~5-mile round-trip hike with rainbow mist views midday), Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Ansel Adams Wilderness, and various alpine lakes (e.g., Minaret Lake, Beck Lake). Multi-day backpacking opportunities abound.
- Fishing: Excellent along the Middle Fork San Joaquin River (a Wild Trout River) and nearby streams/lakes.
- Wildlife Viewing and Nature Appreciation: Stargazing (dark skies at elevation), photography, picnicking, and relaxing by the river or falls.
- Horseback Riding: Available via the nearby pack station.
- Other: Day trips to Devils Postpile’s famous basalt columns, swimming (in suitable areas), and exploring the broader Reds Meadow area. The location is ideal for those combining camping with monument visits.
Wildlife in the Area
The Sierra Nevada high country around Reds Meadow and Devils Postpile supports diverse wildlife typical of the region. Common sightings include:
- Mammals: Black bears (very active here—proper food storage is critical), mule deer, coyotes, pine martens, and possibly mountain lions (less commonly seen). Smaller mammals like Belding’s ground squirrels and pikas are also present.
- Birds: Over 100–115 species, including Steller’s jays, various songbirds, and raptors. The varied habitats (forests, meadows, river) support rich birdlife.
- Other: Fish in the river and streams; amphibians and insects (mosquitoes can be abundant near river willows in early summer—bring repellent).
Always practice wildlife safety: Maintain distance, never feed animals, and store food properly to avoid conflicts, especially with bears.
This campground delivers a classic, immersive Sierra experience with stunning scenery, convenient trail access, and a sense of remoteness while remaining relatively close to Mammoth Lakes. It’s first-come, first-served and fills quickly on summer weekends, so arrive early. For the latest conditions, check the Inyo National Forest or Recreation.gov websites.
Reds Meadow
Reds Meadow (also known as Reds Meadow Valley or Red’s Meadow) is a stunning high-country destination in Inyo National Forest, located on the western side of Mammoth Mountain near Mammoth Lakes, California. Situated at approximately 7,500–7,700 feet elevation in the San Joaquin River Valley, it offers a mix of dramatic geological features, lush meadows, towering pine forests, crystal-clear streams, and access to world-class wilderness.
It is best known as the gateway to Devils Postpile National Monument (with its iconic 60-foot columnar basalt formations) and the 101-foot Rainbow Falls, along with trails into the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and John Muir Trail (JMT). The area provides a peaceful, immersive Sierra Nevada experience with opportunities for day trips or extended stays, about 30–45 minutes from central Mammoth Lakes via a scenic (and sometimes winding) road.
Access is primarily via the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile Shuttle bus during peak summer months (typically late June to mid-September), as private vehicle restrictions often apply to reduce congestion and protect the area. Overnight campers, resort guests, and certain exceptions can drive in (an amenity fee usually applies). Note that road conditions and construction projects may affect access—check current updates before visiting.