Tag: Eastern Sierra

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains within the Inyo National Forest, Holiday Campground (often referred to locally as “Halliday” in some older maps and regional references, though officially listed as Holiday on Forest Service records) offers a serene and accessible escape just off U.S. Highway 395 near Tom’s Place, California. This campground serves primarily as an overflow facility for the popular Rock Creek area, making it an ideal spot for spontaneous campers or those seeking a quieter alternative when nearby sites like French Camp or Rock Creek Lake fill up quickly during peak summer months. Situated at an elevation of approximately 7,600 feet along Rock Creek Road (Forest Service Highway 12), it provides easy access to the cascading waters of Rock Creek, which originates in the nearby John Muir Wilderness, and stunning views of the surrounding pine-forested canyons and rugged peaks.

The campground spans about 5 acres of gently sloping terrain dotted with Jeffrey pines, aspens, and willows, creating a shaded, forested ambiance that feels worlds away from the highway bustle despite being only 0.5 miles from the Tom’s Place exit. It’s divided into two main loops: the upper loop with 20 single-family sites suited for tents or small RVs (up to 16 feet), and the lower overflow area with 15 additional sites that open as needed. Each site features a standard setup including a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and access to bear-proof food storage lockers—essential in black bear country. Drinking water is available via spigots throughout the loops, and there are four vault toilets strategically placed for convenience. Trash service is provided during the operational season, but campers are encouraged to pack out what they pack in to maintain the pristine environment.

As an overflow campground, Holiday’s availability is flexible: during high season (typically June to September), it’s first-come, first-served and may close if not needed, but it shines as a winter haven. From November through May, the water and trash services are shut down, eliminating fees entirely, and it becomes one of the few Rock Creek-area spots that remains accessible for hardy adventurers. Snow isn’t plowed, so winter visitors should come prepared with 4WD vehicles and self-contained setups for dispersed-style camping amid the snow-dusted pines. The site’s proximity to Tom’s Place Resort—just a short downhill drive—means you can stock up on groceries, firewood, or enjoy a meal at the historic cafe without venturing far.

Activities abound for nature enthusiasts. Rock Creek, running parallel to the campground, is a fly-fisher’s paradise stocked with rainbow and brown trout; bring your rod for easy creek-side casting right from camp. Hiking trails like the nearby Rock Creek Trail lead into the John Muir Wilderness, offering day trips to alpine lakes such as Heart Lake (about 4 miles in) or multi-day backpacking adventures toward the Sierra crest. In fall, the aspen groves explode in golden hues, rivaling New England’s autumn spectacle, while spring brings wild iris blooms in the adjacent meadows. Mountain biking and horseback riding are popular on the network of forest roads, and wildlife viewing includes mule deer, marmots, and occasional sightings of bald eagles overhead. For families, the site’s open spaces are perfect for stargazing or casual creek play, though the high elevation means chilly nights even in summer—pack layers.

Reservations aren’t accepted; it’s strictly first-come, first-served, with a $25 nightly fee in summer (waived in winter). The maximum stay is 14 days, and quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM. Cell service is spotty (Verizon fares best), with no Wi-Fi or hookups, embracing the true off-grid vibe. Accessibility is moderate: most sites are level enough for tents, but RVs should stick to designated spots to avoid tight turns on the gravel access road.