Tag: Mono County

Mono County, California, is a stunning region nestled in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. This sparsely populated county boasts diverse terrain, including majestic peaks like Mammoth Mountain and the rugged beauty of the Mono Basin. Its jewel, Mono Lake, with its iconic tufa towers, attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The county is a haven for outdoor activities year-round, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter and superb hiking, fishing, and camping in summer.  The region also preserves a rich cultural heritage, with historic mining towns like Bodie State Historic Park providing glimpses into its past. With its combination of natural beauty and recreational offerings, the area captivates visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility in California’s wilderness.

Junction Campground

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Junction Campground, located in the Inyo National Forest near Tioga Pass, California, is a small, high-altitude campground at approximately 9,600 feet elevation. Situated at the junction of Highway 120 (Tioga Road) and Saddlebag Lake Road, just 2 miles east of Yosemite National Park’s Tioga Pass entrance, this 13-site campground offers a serene alpine retreat in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Nestled in a lodgepole pine forest with stunning views of surrounding granite peaks, including Mt. Dana and Tioga Peak, Junction Campground provides easy access to Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, and the recreational opportunities of the Hoover Wilderness and Yosemite’s high country. Its proximity to Lee Vining and Mono Lake makes it an ideal base for campers seeking a quiet escape with access to fishing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery.

Junction Campground in the Inyo National Forest, Mono County, CA
Junction Campground in the Inyo National Forest, Mono County, CA

Campsite Details

Junction Campground features 13 single-family campsites, all available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. The sites are primarily designed for tent camping, though some can accommodate small RVs or trailers up to 30 feet, with limited parking space for additional vehicles. Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (typical size: 48″ x 30″ x 36″), mandatory due to active black bear activity in the area. Amenities are limited to one vault toilet, which is generally clean but may see heavy use during peak season. There is no potable water on-site, so campers must bring their own or obtain water from nearby Ellery Lake Campground (0.3 miles away) or Tioga Lake Campground (1 mile away). The campground’s roads and parking spurs are paved but narrow, and sites are closely spaced, offering limited privacy. The cost is $20 per night for a single site, reflecting the lack of water, with an additional $10 per night for extra vehicles. Holders of America the Beautiful Senior or Access Passes receive a 50% discount on single-site fees, applicable only to the site occupied by the pass holder. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, with a 14-day stay limit. Firewood is available for purchase from nearby campgrounds or Lee Vining. Cell service is nonexistent, enhancing the remote, off-the-grid experience.

Recreation and Activities

Junction Campground offers access to a variety of outdoor activities in the Tioga Pass area:

  • Fishing: Nearby Ellery Lake (0.3 miles) and Tioga Lake (1 mile) are stocked with rainbow trout, with brook and brown trout also present. Saddlebag Lake, a short drive up Saddlebag Lake Road, offers excellent fishing for golden trout, California’s state fish, from the shore or small boats (non-motorized or electric motors only). Lee Vining Creek, accessible nearby, is another fishing spot.
  • Hiking and Backpacking: The campground is a gateway to trails in the Hoover Wilderness and Yosemite National Park. The Bennettville Trail, starting at the campground, is a 2-mile round-trip hike to a historic 1880s mining ghost town, offering scenic views and family-friendly exploration. The Mono Pass Trail (a few miles away) leads to alpine lakes in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, while the Twenty Lakes Basin trail near Saddlebag Lake offers stunning alpine scenery. The Gaylor Lakes Trail, just inside Yosemite, is a short drive away.
  • Boating: Ellery and Tioga Lakes are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with calm, clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrops. Saddlebag Lake, the highest drive-to lake in the Sierra at 10,087 feet, is popular for non-motorized boating.
  • Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: The area is home to black bears, mule deer, pikas, marmots, and birds like Clark’s nutcrackers and mountain bluebirds. The high elevation and minimal light pollution make Junction Campground excellent for stargazing.
  • Photography and More: The alpine landscape, with granite peaks, wildflowers (lupine and paintbrush in summer), and fall aspens, attracts photographers. Rock climbing and mountain biking are popular in the surrounding area, with trails accessible from nearby trailheads. Nearby attractions include Mono Lake, Mono Craters, the June Lake Loop, and Lundy Lake.

Natural Setting

At 9,600 feet, Junction Campground is nestled in Upper Lee Vining Canyon, surrounded by a dense lodgepole pine forest with open views of towering granite peaks, including the 13,057-foot Mt. Dana and 11,513-foot Tioga Peak. The campground sits near Lee Vining Creek, with its clear, cold waters adding a subtle soundscape. The alpine environment features sagebrush, summer wildflowers, and scattered aspens that turn golden in fall, creating a striking contrast against the rugged granite landscape. Summer daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 70s°F, but nights can drop to the 20s or 30s°F, with snow possible even in June. Visitors should be prepared for strong UV exposure, chilly nights, and potential altitude sickness, as acclimatization may take a day or two. Mosquitoes can be prevalent in early summer, so insect repellent is recommended.

Logistics and Access

Junction Campground is located 10 miles west of Lee Vining, California, via US Highway 395 and CA Highway 120 (Tioga Road). From Lee Vining, head south on US 395 for 0.3 miles, turn right onto CA 120 west, and drive 9.5 miles to the campground, located at the junction with Saddlebag Lake Road on the right. The campground is 2 miles east of Yosemite’s Tioga Pass entrance, a 4-minute drive. The road is paved, but Tioga Pass is seasonal, typically open from early June to early October (tentative opening June 13, 2025), closing due to heavy snow. For updates, contact the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center at (760) 647-3044 or check Recreation.gov. The campground is closed for the winter season. Payment is by cash or check only. The Mono Lake Visitor Center (1 Visitor Center Dr, Lee Vining, CA) is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for information.

Nearby Amenities

Lee Vining, 10 miles east, offers fuel, markets, and dining options, including the Whoa Nellie Deli at the Mobil Gas Station, Epic Cafe, Mono Cone, Bodie Mike’s, Nicely’s Restaurant, and the Mono Market. The Tioga Pass Resort, 2 miles west, has a seasonal café. Ellery Lake Campground (0.3 miles) and Tioga Lake Campground (1 mile) provide potable water and additional vault toilets. Nearby campgrounds, such as Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, Saddlebag Lake, Big Bend, and Lower Lee Vining, offer alternative options if Junction is full.

Visitor Considerations

  • Bear Safety: Black bears are active, so all food, scented items, and trash must be stored in bear-proof lockers. Rangers patrol the area, and fines may be issued for non-compliance. Never leave food in vehicles, as bears have been known to break in.
  • High Altitude: At 9,600 feet, campers should stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms, especially during the first day or two.
  • No Potable Water: Bring sufficient water or plan to obtain it from nearby Ellery or Tioga Lake campgrounds. Water treatment is recommended for creek water.
  • Fire Regulations: Campfires are permitted in fire rings, but check for seasonal fire restrictions (Stage 1 Fire Restrictions may be in effect starting June 16, 2025). Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pest spread.
  • Pets: Dogs are allowed but must be leashed and attended at all times, with a limit of two per site.
  • Site Selection: With only 13 sites, Junction fills quickly during peak summer (July-August), especially on weekends. Arrive early (before noon) to secure a spot. Sites near the creek offer scenic views but limited privacy due to close spacing.
  • Mosquitoes: Early summer can bring heavy mosquito activity, so bring repellent and protective clothing.
  • Accessibility: The vault toilet is accessible, but the uneven terrain and closely spaced sites may pose challenges for those with mobility needs.

Visitor Feedback

Campers praise Junction Campground for its stunning alpine setting, proximity to Yosemite, and access to fishing and hiking. Reviews highlight the scenic views of granite peaks and the quiet atmosphere, with one camper noting, “Junction is a perfect stopover before entering Yosemite, with easy access to lakes and trails.” The small size is appreciated for its intimacy, but some mention the lack of privacy due to closely spaced sites and the absence of potable water as drawbacks. The clean vault toilet and convenient location at the Saddlebag Lake Road junction are frequently commended, though mosquitoes in early summer and cold nights are noted challenges. The first-come, first-served policy and high demand make early arrival essential.

Conclusion

Junction Campground is a serene, high-altitude gem near Tioga Pass, offering a small, rustic retreat at 9,600 feet with easy access to Ellery Lake, Tioga Lake, and Yosemite National Park. Its 13 forested sites, stunning alpine views, and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and paddling make it a favorite for tent campers and small RV users seeking an off-the-grid adventure. Despite limited amenities and privacy, the campground’s breathtaking setting and proximity to the Hoover Wilderness and Mono Lake create an unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether exploring historic trails, fishing in alpine lakes, or stargazing under a pristine Sierra sky, Junction Campground delivers a memorable escape in one of California’s most spectacular regions.

Aspen Campground

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Aspen Campground, located in the Inyo National Forest near Rock Creek and Tom’s Place, California, is a small, high-altitude campground at approximately 8,100 feet elevation. Nestled along Rock Creek in the scenic Rock Creek Canyon of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, this 5-site campground offers a tranquil, intimate retreat surrounded by Jeffrey pines, vibrant aspen groves, and sagebrush, with dramatic granite peaks providing a stunning backdrop. Situated just 1 mile west of Tom’s Place, Aspen Campground is one of the closest campgrounds to Highway 395 in the Rock Creek area, making it highly accessible yet still immersed in nature. Its proximity to Rock Creek Lake, the John Muir Wilderness, and recreational opportunities like fishing and hiking makes it an ideal base for campers seeking a quiet escape in the Eastern Sierra.

Aspen Group Campground near Rock Creek Lake
Aspen Group Campground near Rock Creek Lake

Campsite Details

Aspen Campground features 5 single-family campsites, all available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. The sites are best suited for tents and very small RVs or trailers (maximum length 16 feet) due to the narrow, unpaved parking spurs and limited turnaround space. Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (typical size: 48″ x 30″ x 36″), essential due to active black bear activity in the area. Amenities are minimal, with no potable water or toilets provided directly at the campground; campers must rely on nearby facilities at Tom’s Place or other campgrounds like East Fork or Iris Meadow for water and restrooms. The sites are well-spaced and shaded by Jeffrey pines and aspens, with some offering creek-side views of Rock Creek’s clear, boulder-lined waters. The cost is $20 per night for a single site, reflecting the lack of amenities, with an additional $10 per night for extra vehicles. Holders of America the Beautiful Senior or Access Passes receive a 50% discount on single-site fees. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, with a maximum stay of 7 days.

Recreation and Activities

Aspen Campground provides convenient access to a variety of outdoor activities in the Rock Creek area:

  • Fishing: Rock Creek, flowing adjacent to the campground, is a renowned trout fishing destination, stocked with rainbow, brown, and Alpers trout. Rock Creek Lake, approximately 8 miles up the road, offers additional fishing opportunities from the shore or small boats (electric motors only, 5 MPH limit).
  • Hiking and Backpacking: The Mosquito Flat Trailhead, about 9 miles up Rock Creek Road, provides access to the Little Lakes Valley in the John Muir Wilderness. This gentle trail leads to a series of glacially carved alpine lakes, such as Mack Lake, Heart Lake, and Gem Lakes, within a 2.5-mile hike, with stunning views of Bear Creek Spire, Mt. Dade, and Mt. Abbott. Other nearby trails, like the Tamarack Lakes Trail, cater to day hikers and backpackers.
  • Boating: Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular at Rock Creek Lake, though the water remains cold even in summer.
  • Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: The area supports diverse wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, pikas, marmots, and bird species like mountain bluebirds and Clark’s nutcrackers. The high elevation and minimal light pollution make Aspen Campground ideal for stargazing.
  • Horseback Riding: Rock Creek Pack Station, near Rock Creek Lake, offers guided trail rides and fishing pack trips into the backcountry.
  • Photography and More: The vibrant aspen groves (golden in fall), summer wildflowers like iris and lupine, and dramatic granite peaks attract photographers. Mountain biking and rockhounding are also popular in the surrounding terrain.

Natural Setting

At 8,100 feet, Aspen Campground is situated in Rock Creek Canyon, surrounded by a mix of Jeffrey pines, aspens, and sagebrush, creating a high-desert ambiance with forested pockets. The aspen groves, for which the campground is named, turn a brilliant gold in the fall, offering a spectacular display that rivals New England’s autumn scenery. Rock Creek flows alongside the campground, its clear, cold waters cascading over boulders, providing a soothing soundscape. The surrounding Eastern Sierra Nevada features steep granite cliffs and towering peaks, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Summer daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 80s°F, with nights dropping to the 30s or 40s°F due to the high elevation. Visitors should be prepared for strong UV exposure and potential altitude sickness, with acclimatization possibly taking a day or two.

Logistics and Access

To reach Aspen Campground, take US Highway 395 to Tom’s Place, approximately 23 miles north of Bishop or 10 miles south of Mammoth Lakes. Turn west onto Rock Creek Lake Road and drive about 1 mile; the campground is on the right, just past Tom’s Place. The road is paved, but the campground’s dirt parking areas are narrow and best suited for smaller vehicles. The campground operates seasonally, typically from late May to late September (May 23 to September 28, 2025, weather permitting), with exact dates subject to snow conditions. For updates, contact the White Mountain Ranger District at (760) 873-2500. Cell service is spotty, with some carriers reporting weak reception (1-2 bars) due to the proximity to Highway 395, but most campers experience limited or no service, enhancing the off-the-grid atmosphere.

Nearby Amenities

Tom’s Place, just 1 mile away, features a rustic lodge with a market, café, and bar, offering convenient access to supplies, meals, and potable water. Rock Creek Lakes Resort, 8 miles up the road, provides a general store, a café serving breakfast and lunch, and cabin rentals. Nearby campgrounds, such as East Fork (1.5 miles away), Iris Meadow, Big Meadow, Upper Pine Grove, Lower Pine Grove, Palisades Group, and Rock Creek Lake, offer alternative camping options with additional amenities like toilets and water if needed.

Visitor Considerations

  • Bear Safety: Black bears are active, so all food, scented items, and trash must be stored in bear-proof lockers when not in use. Keeping a clean campsite is critical to avoid wildlife encounters.
  • High Altitude: At 8,100 feet, campers should stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms, particularly during the first day or two.
  • Limited Amenities: With no potable water or toilets on-site, campers must bring water or rely on nearby facilities at Tom’s Place or other campgrounds. Plan to pack out all trash if bins are unavailable.
  • Fire Regulations: Campfires are permitted in fire rings, but check for seasonal fire restrictions (Stage 1 Fire Restrictions may be in effect starting June 16, 2025). Firewood is available for purchase locally to prevent the spread of invasive pests. Generators are allowed during non-quiet hours (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM) with a three-hour maximum run time and must be attended.
  • Pets: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed and attended at all times, with a limit of two per site.
  • Site Selection: With only 5 sites, Aspen Campground fills quickly, especially on summer weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot, particularly for creek-side sites, which offer scenic views and the sound of flowing water. Forested sites provide more shade and seclusion.
  • Accessibility: The lack of on-site toilets and uneven terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility needs. Check nearby campgrounds like East Fork for accessible facilities.

Visitor Feedback

Campers praise Aspen Campground for its small size, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to Tom’s Place and Rock Creek. Reviews highlight the beauty of the aspen groves, the relaxing sound of the creek, and the campground’s accessibility, with one camper noting, “Aspen is perfect for a quick getaway with just enough seclusion but close to amenities at Tom’s Place.” The lack of on-site water and toilets is a common drawback, but campers appreciate the low cost and intimate setting. The campground’s small size and first-come, first-served policy make it competitive, so early arrival is recommended. The vibrant fall colors and fishing opportunities are frequently cited as highlights.

Conclusion

Aspen Campground is a charming, minimalist retreat in the heart of Rock Creek Canyon, offering a quiet and scenic camping experience for tent campers and small RV users. With its creek-side sites, vibrant aspen groves, and easy access to world-class fishing and hiking in the John Muir Wilderness, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking simplicity and natural beauty. Despite the lack of on-site amenities, its proximity to Tom’s Place and other campgrounds makes it convenient for short stays. Whether fishing in Rock Creek, hiking to alpine lakes, or stargazing under a pristine Sierra sky, Aspen Campground delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience in one of California’s most scenic regions.

Rock Creek Lake Campground

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Rock Creek Lake Campground, located in Mono County, California, is a picturesque alpine lake set amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. At an elevation of about 9,600 feet, Rock Creek Lake is tranquil lake is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Rock Creek Lake Campground
Rock Creek Lake Campground

Natural Beauty

Surrounded by towering pine trees and rugged mountain peaks, Rock Creek Lake offers stunning views that change with the seasons. In the spring and summer, wildflowers dot the meadows, and the clear blue waters of the lake reflect the surrounding landscape. In the fall, the area is painted with vibrant hues of gold and orange as the aspen trees change color. During the winter, the lake and its surroundings are blanketed in snow, creating a peaceful winter wonderland.

Facilities

Rock Creek Lake Campgrounds campsites are well-spaced along the lake shore, with several tent-only, walk-in sites overlooking the lake. Boat rentals, educational programs, groceries and showers are all nearby. Firewood is available on-site for a fee. Bears inhabit the area, so bear-proof lockers are provided for campers to store food.

The campsites at Rock Creek Lake sit on a low hill with scattered aspen and lodgepole pine trees overlooking the lake’s crystal blue waters. At an elevation of 9,600 feet, the facility affords visitors excellent mountain views.

The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martin, pika and many species of fish and birds.

Recreation

Rock Creek and other waterways in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for exceptional trout fishing. A catch from the lake may include brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout, while anglers may be treated to golden trout in the backcountry. Power boats on the lake are limited to electric motors only.

The area’s majestic scenery and challenging trails are a draw for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. The Tamarack Trail begins in the campground and wanders up to several high-elevation, glacially-carved alpine lakes and ponds.

Campground Summary

Campground NameRock Creek Lake Campground
Latitude, Longitude37.4526, -118.7324
Sites25
Elevation9,600 ft
AmmenitiesBear Boxes, Fire rings, Table, Flust Toilets, Shower, Water, Camp host

Rock Creek Lake Campground Map

References

Bodie: 1859-1962 (Images of America)

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Bodie: 1859-1962 (Images of America) - Author Terri Lynn Geissinger
Bodie: 1859-1962 (Images of America) – Author Terri Lynn Geissinger

Nestled amongst the sage-covered, windswept hills of California’s Eastern Sierra is the site of one of the most notorious mining towns of the Old West. In 1859, gold was discovered in the treeless hills northeast of Mono Lake. By 1879, Bodie was a metropolis of nearly 10,000 souls and was briefly the third-largest city in California. Excitement was short-lived, however, and word soon spread that the mines had reached peak production. An exodus began, but contrary to popular belief, Bodie was never totally abandoned. People continued living in this curious and beautiful place throughout the 1950s, and in 1962, the California State Parks system purchased the town site. Now stabilized against the elements, Bodie is today known as the largest unrestored ghost town in the West.

Author Terri Lynn Geissinger, a local historian, tour guide, and interpreter at Bodie State Historic Park, collects the oral histories of Bodie’s denizens. With extensive experience in educational lectures, she is dedicated to preserving this town’s past for future generations. Geissinger collected the stirring images in this volume from the Bodie State Historic Park Archive, the Mono County Museum, and various families with roots in this remarkable place.

Book Summary

TitleBodie: 1859-1962 (Images of America)
AuthorTerri Lynn Geissinger
PublisherArcadia Publishing
Pages128 Pages

A Pathway Through Parks

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Pathway Through Parks written by Carl S Chavez
Pathway Through Parks written by Carl S Chavez

“Bodie, the very sound of that name conjures up images of “The Bad Man From Bodie”, a rough and tumble life, and the harsh climate of a gold mine boomtown of the early West. But to a young park ranger and his wife, fresh out of college, and with a child on the way, it was an intimidating beginning to a 32-year career with California Department of Parks and Recreation.

A PATHWAY THROUGH PARKS follows the career of Ranger Carl S. Chavez and his family as they travel the length and breadth of California from the ghost town of Bodie State Historic Park to the mountains and beaches of Southern California. Each new assignment brings new adventures and challenges as Ranger Chavez promotes up the career ladder to positions on the Central Coast of California, the Sierra Nevada and finally to the redwoods of Northern California at Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

Career decisions must be made which result in advancement, “out of the field”, and into the Management ranks of Regional and Division Headquarters. Yet even these changes do not alter the opportunity for stories and tales of humor and tragedy, joy and sorrow, adventure and routine, and the success and failure that many readers will recognize in their own lives. Anyone who has retired from the workforce, regardless of occupation, will have memories like those found in A PATHWAY THROUGH PARKS.

The author’s experiences will give all those who love the Great Outdoors and enjoy our parks and forests a rare, inside glimpse, not only of the inner workings of park operations, but also, of family life living in parks.

Book Summary

TitleA Pathway Through Parks
AuthorCarl S. Chavez 
PublisherTrafford
Pages348 Pages