Camping near Lone Pine

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In the heart of the Owens Valley, between the Sierra Nevada and Inyo mountain ranges, the town of Lone Pine is a great base for outdoor adventures and trout fishing. Other highlights include the scenic boulder fields of the Alabama Hills, a backdrop to so many Western movies, the Lone Pine Museum of Western Film, and the Manzanar National Historic Site. Campgrounds can be found around town, near Mount Whitney, along Highway 395, and in nearby national forests and parks.

91% (1.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Cooling off on a warm day.

2. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(602)
49mi from Lone Pine · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Springville, CA
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Corral Campsite

5. Five Fours Camp in Three Rivers

100%
(418)
44mi from Lone Pine · 2 sites · Tents · Three Rivers, CA
This is a essentially a private campsite with a million dollar view during the day, and wonderful stargazing at night! We welcome dogs and don't charge additional fees for you to bring your dog(s) to camp. The park allows dogs into the park BUT NOT ON ANY TRAILS! (Only the national “forests” allow dogs on trails, not national parks.) PLEASE, let us know you are bringing dog(s), when you request to book. We currently have 2 dogs - our boy Chance is a 6yo Husky Doberman mix; and we rescued and are fostering a (approx 3yo) Great Dane, Winston! Unfortunately, we can NOT dog sit your dog(s) while you are in the park having 2 large male dogs in our house. Also you can not leave the dog alone in the campsite. We are in Three Rivers - the southern Ash Mountain gateway to the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Our town has some wonderfully unique restaurants, creative shops and even a delicious brewery with seating next to the River! Our hillside property has great Mountain View’s and the driveway turns directly off of Sierra drive, four miles past the town center (3R post office) and just 2 miles from the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks entrance. There’s even a convenience store a quarter mile away! It's conveniently located and easy to find! You can (seasonally) hear the tranqual sounds, or all out roar of the flowing Kaweah river from across the street. Sorry, there is NO river access from this campsite. You can go to Slick Rock Recreation area, Lake Kaweah or into the parks to swim, boat, fish and more. Lake Kaweah is about 8 miles away. You drive around it after you top the hill entering Three Rivers. My wife Elizabeth and I bought our log home in 2015 and we have been dreaming and adding here ever since! Our dog Chance chases all the fun wildlife off of our property. In addition to deer, we have seen fox, bob cats, an Ocelot, too many coyotes, wild turkeys and bear crossing an animal highway along our upper hillside property line. Hawks, hummingbirds, quail, blue birds, woodpeckers and yellow bellied finches are regularly seen here as well. We have had turkey families coming through frequently recently! Owls have been heard; but not seen. We love our country home and mountain views, and look forward to sharing them with you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$71
 / night
The trailer is nestled between an abundance of greenery and the A-Frame cabin.

9. OrangeRay~Three Rivers

99%
(202)
47mi from Lone Pine · 2 sites · Lodging · Three Rivers, CA
OrangeRay, home of Pixie's Place Animal Sanctuary and Hospice was founded in 2007, when I left L.A. for the forest by the river to create, and to expand my shamanic pursuits. Being that Three Rivers was home to the socialist Kaweah Colony in the 1800's; which helped in the founding of Sequoia National Park; the area is rich in history. Poet John Muir was enchanted and inspired by this area; Walt Disney fell under her spell as well when he envisioned a "Swiss Chalet" style resort which never came to fruition. The water wars of California began right here; gold rush...right here! "Kaweah" is the name given by the Indians for the sound the Crow makes. Three Rivers literally sits on slabs of quartz crystal, making rock hunting superb! As an energy practitioner, the quartz heightens the healing process; as well as creating an energy vortex. My property sits on an area that was once an Indian village, and then the school house for the children of the pioneers. There was a huge Hare Krishna Colony up here in the 60-70's. As a photographer and filmmaker, the lighting up here is amazing! The night skies literally pulsate with their celestial canopy. A great spot to sky watch as well! The property is not kid-friendly, and is not really here for children as much as it is offered for the inner child in adults. WE ARE 420 friendly which is in opposition to most "family" landscapes....so please note this is not personal but I prefer no children xo Also, I prefer no pets, as it disrupts the balance here with the animal residents :) I share fresh eggs when available :) (The shower is not available to guest :)
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night
Cartago Springs

11. Cartago Springs

78%
(9)
17mi from Lone Pine · 2 sites · RVs · Cartago, CA
Cartago Springs is right off of the 395 HWY, with beautiful panoramic views of the Sierra mountains with bright twinkling open skies at night. Just minutes from cotton wood creek and a short drive to the Alabama Hills and Mt. Whitney. Open land to park your trailer or RV. Star gaze and eat under the stars. Cartago wildlife area is a five minute walk down the road from the property. The Cartago Wildlife area is a protected wet land that homes many different birds and wild life, there are walking trails and a small pond to enjoy. The property sits near what was once the old Cartago dump. You can find beautiful colored glass, porcelains, neat items like silverware, car parts, old lighters, a pickers paradise. feel free to take any treasures you find home with you! If you like to ride, Olancha dunes is just down the road. Cactus Flats Road in Olancha will take you into the Coso Mountains where the trails are endless, the views are beautiful and the peace is surreal. Cartago Springs is a few miles north of the Mobile gas station, where they serve hot food a perfect convince for the traveler. Hope to see you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Grove entrance from the west, restroom left background

16. Zen Camp/Bamboo Retreat

100%
(9)
48mi from Lone Pine · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Springville, CA
The calm and quiet of a Bamboo Grove. The perfect spot to unwind and relax. The beautiful Tule (two-lee) river can be heard at night! Day use area on the river only a 10-minute drive away! Short day trips to Sequoia National Park and Yosemite! Great couples getaway! Also a perfect location for Yoga groups or other groups up to 8 people! Group pricing for 7 is only $30/per person per night! ($60/couple + $30/person for up to 5 others! (Couple or max. of 3 sleeping together on King size mattress for 8x10 cabin is $50/night.) Come as a couple or get a group together! One night, OK. Singles or couples will always be alone and not sharing the camp area, and you'll have your pick of any of the three tents or one 8'x10' cabin with indoor toilet/sink King size air mattress ($50/night charge for cabin). Tents are provided and set up, each with fat comfortable air mattresses! Look at the photos! Contact me for more info and to book your stay! (No bedding or utensils provided. Propane bar-b-que. Fire pit and limited firewood provided. No electricity, no running water. Outdoor shower and simple outdoor restroom with foot pump sink. Ice chest available, ice provided in ice chest for those staying 2 nights or more.)
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$60
 / night
Three Rivers Sequoia Camp

17. Three Rivers Sequoia Camp

100%
(15)
47mi from Lone Pine · 1 site · Tent, RV · Three Rivers, CA
Welcome to your gateway to the wild! Nestled in the heart of Three Rivers, our private camp spot offers a peaceful retreat just minutes from the entrance to Sequoia National Park. Set near the North Fork of the Kaweah River, you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of flowing water and wake up to birdsong and mountain air. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, this is your perfect basecamp. Spend your days exploring the park’s world-famous giant sequoias, swimming in crystal-clear river pools, hiking scenic trails, or just unwinding under the stars by your campsite. The site is tucked away in a quiet corner of our property, offering a blend of natural beauty and simple comfort. Expect clear night skies, mountain views, and the kind of serenity only the Sierra foothills can offer. You’ll have easy access to town for supplies or a bite to eat, but once you’re back at camp, you’ll feel miles away from everything. Ideal for tent campers or vanlifers looking for a peaceful, well-located spot to recharge and reconnect with nature. Includes WiFi
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
TINY in the Eastern Sierra's

20. TINY in the Eastern Sierra's

100%
(1)
2.8mi from Lone Pine · 1 site · Lodging · Lone Pine, CA
THINK TINY, THINK ADVENTURE Modern TINY (16') Home on Wheels was inspired and built with a desire for minimalism, clean lines and efficiency of space. It has all the modern amenities you need in the midst of Nature. Space is sufficient but limited. Tiny is located inside "Lone Pine Mobile Oasis" RV PARK, on the west side of HWY 395, and Lubken Canyon. There is Hwy noise and there are neighbors. Semi's do drive the Hwy during the night. Please preview location before booking. We do have WIFI! The space Our home is only 16' long (8'x16') but has a well-equipped kitchenette, full bath with a shower and a conventional toilet. The kitchenette has the basics and then some... a coffee maker, a portable induction cook top, pots and pans, cooking utensils, basic spices and condiments. It also has a Britta water pitcher/ filter for your convenience! The living / sleeping space is a twin size sofa / daybed with a pull out trundle. The foam mattress size is 38" x 75" for both beds. The top mattress is 8" thick with a weight capacity of 400 lbs and the trundle is 6" thick with a weight capacity of 250 lbs. This may not have enough support or may be uncomfortable for some. The dining space has a movable coffee table /bench /shoe rack/ storage with locking brakes and a lift up dining table / office desk. The bench also stores the 2nd comforter for the bottom bed. TINY is well insulated with Rockwool in all walls, ceiling and floor, has a built in mini split -AC/Heater with remote control, dual pane windows and doors, tinted glass and black out shades for your comfort and enjoyment. TINY only has 50 amps of power and the on demand water heater requires 50 amps. Only 2 lights are able to be used while taking a hot shower. THE BREAKER MAY SHUT DOWN AND WOULD NEED TO BE RESET. (This has not happened in over a year but, just in case) CAUTION: Things appear smaller than they feel like inside! Driving up you may think, "OMG, it's so small", but after you step inside, you will hopefully feel, "WOW, it feels bigger than it looks". The 395 highway may be too close and light sleepers may feel it is still too noisy. Please do not book and leave a bad review if this would bother you.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$117
 / night

In the heart of the Owens Valley, between the Sierra Nevada and Inyo mountain ranges, the town of Lone Pine is a great base for outdoor adventures and trout fishing. Other highlights include the scenic boulder fields of the Alabama Hills, a backdrop to so many Western movies, the Lone Pine Museum of Western Film, and the Manzanar National Historic Site. Campgrounds can be found around town, near Mount Whitney, along Highway 395, and in nearby national forests and parks.

91% (1.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Cooling off on a warm day.

2. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(602)
49mi from Lone Pine · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Springville, CA
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Corral Campsite

5. Five Fours Camp in Three Rivers

100%
(418)
44mi from Lone Pine · 2 sites · Tents · Three Rivers, CA
This is a essentially a private campsite with a million dollar view during the day, and wonderful stargazing at night! We welcome dogs and don't charge additional fees for you to bring your dog(s) to camp. The park allows dogs into the park BUT NOT ON ANY TRAILS! (Only the national “forests” allow dogs on trails, not national parks.) PLEASE, let us know you are bringing dog(s), when you request to book. We currently have 2 dogs - our boy Chance is a 6yo Husky Doberman mix; and we rescued and are fostering a (approx 3yo) Great Dane, Winston! Unfortunately, we can NOT dog sit your dog(s) while you are in the park having 2 large male dogs in our house. Also you can not leave the dog alone in the campsite. We are in Three Rivers - the southern Ash Mountain gateway to the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Our town has some wonderfully unique restaurants, creative shops and even a delicious brewery with seating next to the River! Our hillside property has great Mountain View’s and the driveway turns directly off of Sierra drive, four miles past the town center (3R post office) and just 2 miles from the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks entrance. There’s even a convenience store a quarter mile away! It's conveniently located and easy to find! You can (seasonally) hear the tranqual sounds, or all out roar of the flowing Kaweah river from across the street. Sorry, there is NO river access from this campsite. You can go to Slick Rock Recreation area, Lake Kaweah or into the parks to swim, boat, fish and more. Lake Kaweah is about 8 miles away. You drive around it after you top the hill entering Three Rivers. My wife Elizabeth and I bought our log home in 2015 and we have been dreaming and adding here ever since! Our dog Chance chases all the fun wildlife off of our property. In addition to deer, we have seen fox, bob cats, an Ocelot, too many coyotes, wild turkeys and bear crossing an animal highway along our upper hillside property line. Hawks, hummingbirds, quail, blue birds, woodpeckers and yellow bellied finches are regularly seen here as well. We have had turkey families coming through frequently recently! Owls have been heard; but not seen. We love our country home and mountain views, and look forward to sharing them with you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$71
 / night
The trailer is nestled between an abundance of greenery and the A-Frame cabin.

9. OrangeRay~Three Rivers

99%
(202)
47mi from Lone Pine · 2 sites · Lodging · Three Rivers, CA
OrangeRay, home of Pixie's Place Animal Sanctuary and Hospice was founded in 2007, when I left L.A. for the forest by the river to create, and to expand my shamanic pursuits. Being that Three Rivers was home to the socialist Kaweah Colony in the 1800's; which helped in the founding of Sequoia National Park; the area is rich in history. Poet John Muir was enchanted and inspired by this area; Walt Disney fell under her spell as well when he envisioned a "Swiss Chalet" style resort which never came to fruition. The water wars of California began right here; gold rush...right here! "Kaweah" is the name given by the Indians for the sound the Crow makes. Three Rivers literally sits on slabs of quartz crystal, making rock hunting superb! As an energy practitioner, the quartz heightens the healing process; as well as creating an energy vortex. My property sits on an area that was once an Indian village, and then the school house for the children of the pioneers. There was a huge Hare Krishna Colony up here in the 60-70's. As a photographer and filmmaker, the lighting up here is amazing! The night skies literally pulsate with their celestial canopy. A great spot to sky watch as well! The property is not kid-friendly, and is not really here for children as much as it is offered for the inner child in adults. WE ARE 420 friendly which is in opposition to most "family" landscapes....so please note this is not personal but I prefer no children xo Also, I prefer no pets, as it disrupts the balance here with the animal residents :) I share fresh eggs when available :) (The shower is not available to guest :)
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night
Cartago Springs

11. Cartago Springs

78%
(9)
17mi from Lone Pine · 2 sites · RVs · Cartago, CA
Cartago Springs is right off of the 395 HWY, with beautiful panoramic views of the Sierra mountains with bright twinkling open skies at night. Just minutes from cotton wood creek and a short drive to the Alabama Hills and Mt. Whitney. Open land to park your trailer or RV. Star gaze and eat under the stars. Cartago wildlife area is a five minute walk down the road from the property. The Cartago Wildlife area is a protected wet land that homes many different birds and wild life, there are walking trails and a small pond to enjoy. The property sits near what was once the old Cartago dump. You can find beautiful colored glass, porcelains, neat items like silverware, car parts, old lighters, a pickers paradise. feel free to take any treasures you find home with you! If you like to ride, Olancha dunes is just down the road. Cactus Flats Road in Olancha will take you into the Coso Mountains where the trails are endless, the views are beautiful and the peace is surreal. Cartago Springs is a few miles north of the Mobile gas station, where they serve hot food a perfect convince for the traveler. Hope to see you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Grove entrance from the west, restroom left background

16. Zen Camp/Bamboo Retreat

100%
(9)
48mi from Lone Pine · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Springville, CA
The calm and quiet of a Bamboo Grove. The perfect spot to unwind and relax. The beautiful Tule (two-lee) river can be heard at night! Day use area on the river only a 10-minute drive away! Short day trips to Sequoia National Park and Yosemite! Great couples getaway! Also a perfect location for Yoga groups or other groups up to 8 people! Group pricing for 7 is only $30/per person per night! ($60/couple + $30/person for up to 5 others! (Couple or max. of 3 sleeping together on King size mattress for 8x10 cabin is $50/night.) Come as a couple or get a group together! One night, OK. Singles or couples will always be alone and not sharing the camp area, and you'll have your pick of any of the three tents or one 8'x10' cabin with indoor toilet/sink King size air mattress ($50/night charge for cabin). Tents are provided and set up, each with fat comfortable air mattresses! Look at the photos! Contact me for more info and to book your stay! (No bedding or utensils provided. Propane bar-b-que. Fire pit and limited firewood provided. No electricity, no running water. Outdoor shower and simple outdoor restroom with foot pump sink. Ice chest available, ice provided in ice chest for those staying 2 nights or more.)
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$60
 / night
Three Rivers Sequoia Camp

17. Three Rivers Sequoia Camp

100%
(15)
47mi from Lone Pine · 1 site · Tent, RV · Three Rivers, CA
Welcome to your gateway to the wild! Nestled in the heart of Three Rivers, our private camp spot offers a peaceful retreat just minutes from the entrance to Sequoia National Park. Set near the North Fork of the Kaweah River, you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of flowing water and wake up to birdsong and mountain air. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, this is your perfect basecamp. Spend your days exploring the park’s world-famous giant sequoias, swimming in crystal-clear river pools, hiking scenic trails, or just unwinding under the stars by your campsite. The site is tucked away in a quiet corner of our property, offering a blend of natural beauty and simple comfort. Expect clear night skies, mountain views, and the kind of serenity only the Sierra foothills can offer. You’ll have easy access to town for supplies or a bite to eat, but once you’re back at camp, you’ll feel miles away from everything. Ideal for tent campers or vanlifers looking for a peaceful, well-located spot to recharge and reconnect with nature. Includes WiFi
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
TINY in the Eastern Sierra's

20. TINY in the Eastern Sierra's

100%
(1)
2.8mi from Lone Pine · 1 site · Lodging · Lone Pine, CA
THINK TINY, THINK ADVENTURE Modern TINY (16') Home on Wheels was inspired and built with a desire for minimalism, clean lines and efficiency of space. It has all the modern amenities you need in the midst of Nature. Space is sufficient but limited. Tiny is located inside "Lone Pine Mobile Oasis" RV PARK, on the west side of HWY 395, and Lubken Canyon. There is Hwy noise and there are neighbors. Semi's do drive the Hwy during the night. Please preview location before booking. We do have WIFI! The space Our home is only 16' long (8'x16') but has a well-equipped kitchenette, full bath with a shower and a conventional toilet. The kitchenette has the basics and then some... a coffee maker, a portable induction cook top, pots and pans, cooking utensils, basic spices and condiments. It also has a Britta water pitcher/ filter for your convenience! The living / sleeping space is a twin size sofa / daybed with a pull out trundle. The foam mattress size is 38" x 75" for both beds. The top mattress is 8" thick with a weight capacity of 400 lbs and the trundle is 6" thick with a weight capacity of 250 lbs. This may not have enough support or may be uncomfortable for some. The dining space has a movable coffee table /bench /shoe rack/ storage with locking brakes and a lift up dining table / office desk. The bench also stores the 2nd comforter for the bottom bed. TINY is well insulated with Rockwool in all walls, ceiling and floor, has a built in mini split -AC/Heater with remote control, dual pane windows and doors, tinted glass and black out shades for your comfort and enjoyment. TINY only has 50 amps of power and the on demand water heater requires 50 amps. Only 2 lights are able to be used while taking a hot shower. THE BREAKER MAY SHUT DOWN AND WOULD NEED TO BE RESET. (This has not happened in over a year but, just in case) CAUTION: Things appear smaller than they feel like inside! Driving up you may think, "OMG, it's so small", but after you step inside, you will hopefully feel, "WOW, it feels bigger than it looks". The 395 highway may be too close and light sleepers may feel it is still too noisy. Please do not book and leave a bad review if this would bother you.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$117
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Lone Pine guide

Where to go

Lone Pine and Whitney Portal

Just outside of town, Inyo National Forest features several campgrounds with sites for tents and RVs, some with hookups. Visitors looking to tackle Mount Whitney or the John Muir Trail to Yosemite flock to the Whitney Portal Campground. The Forest Service Lone Pine Campground and Bureau of Land Management-run Tuttle Creek Campgrounds are good alternate options for Mount Whitney hikers.

Inyo County, Inyo National Forest, and Sequoia National Forest

North of Lone Pine, county and Forest Service campgrounds can be found along Independence Creek, while backpackers often head further inland to the high altitude Onion Valley Campground in Inyo National Forest. More options exist further north outside the town of Big Pine, while other campgrounds are set up for backpackers heading into the John Muir Wilderness. Bishop offers amenities and several campgrounds, but plenty more can be found at higher elevations along Bishop Creek and Lake Sabrina. South of Lone Pine, find more than a dozen campgrounds around Lake Isabella and along the North Fork of the Kern River.

Death Valley National Park

Lone Pine acts as a gateway to Death Valley National Park, the largest in the continental US, and also its lowest, hottest, and driest point, with a dramatic landscape that varies from rolling sand dunes and massive salt flats to winding canyons and snow-capped mountains. The park offers nine established campgrounds at varying elevations with differing opening dates. The year-round Furnace Creek Campground is the most centrally located.

When to go

Visitors flock here in early March, when trout season kicks off, around two months earlier than elsewhere in the Eastern Sierras. Summer is also a popular time for visitors looking to summit Mount Whitney, as the Mount Whitney Portal area is closed from mid-October to early May. Motorized boats are permitted on Diaz Lake from mid-May to mid October. Visit in spring and fall for bird watching on Owens Lake.

Know before you go

  • Permits are required to hike Mount Whitney. The lottery for permits opens on February 1 each year and closes on March 15. Day hiking and overnight permits are available. 
  • There’s a one-night limit for walk-in campsites at Whitney Portal.
  • Permits are also required to backpack the John Muir Wilderness and the Golden Trout Wilderness.
  • Be bear aware. Do not store any scented items in your tent or vehicle, and use bear-proof containers instead. 
  • Anglers 16 and older must have a fishing license. Be aware of different regulations for various rivers.