LAKE MARY CAMPGROUND
Inyo National Forest, CALake Mary Campground sits at the northwest end of the largest lake in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, offering 48 sites among lodgepole pines at 8,900 feet. This is base camp for the Sierra's most accessible high-country fishing and wilderness access, though the four closely-spaced loops mean you're camping with plenty of company.
Campground Details
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 48
- 💵Fee per Night
- $34
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 8,900 ft
- 📍GPS
- 37.60732, -119.00642
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground straddles the road in four loops of tightly packed sites, all within walking distance of Lake Mary itself. Some sites catch views of the water and surrounding peaks that push into the 9,000 and 10,000-foot range. You're camping in lodgepole pine forest with the usual Eastern Sierra suspects around: black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, and pine martens. The setting delivers Sierra scenery, but the spacing between sites won't give you much privacy.
The Fishing
Lake Mary gets the heaviest trout stocking in the entire Mammoth Lakes Basin, making it the go-to spot for rainbow, brook, and brown trout. No swimming or wading allowed — this is strictly a fishing lake. The heavy stocking schedule explains why Lake Mary draws the crowds, and why this campground stays busy through the season.
What to Know
Reservations are required at $34 per night. Once your dates begin, changes aren't possible through Recreation.gov or the campground manager. The equestrian designation means horses are welcome, adding another layer to the activity around camp.
Nearby
While no trails start from the campground itself, you're positioned for day hikes and backpacking routes into the John Muir Wilderness. The wilderness stretches 100 miles along the Sierra crest — glacially-carved terrain, deep canyons, and snow-capped peaks accessible via hiking and horseback trails. The other 10 lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin are also within reach for more fishing and boating options.