At just over 10,000 feet, this group-only campground puts 25 people next to 600-acre Saddlebag Lake in the eastern Sierra. The setting is high-elevation pine forest with wilderness access, though you're camping in the trees rather than lakeside. It's a solid basecamp for groups planning to fish the lake or hike into the Hoover Wilderness.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 💵Fee per Night
- Free
- 📍GPS
- 37.96433, -119.27231
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 🗺️Address
- CA
The Camp
This is tent-only territory — one group site in a forested setting adjacent to Saddlebag Lake. You're not camping directly on the shoreline, but the lake is close enough to walk over for fishing or to use the boat ramp. The site comes with picnic tables and flush toilets, though you'll need to walk to the main Saddlebag Lake Campground for drinking water. That main campground runs first-come, first-served individual sites if your group needs overflow.
The lake's resort handles camping supplies, boat rentals, and meals, which saves hauling everything up to 10,000 feet.
Fishing and Trails
Saddlebag Lake holds rainbow, brook, and brown trout. You can fish from shore or launch a boat (15 mph speed limit). The real draw for many groups is trail access — the Twenty Lakes Basin Trail heads into the Hoover Wilderness right from the area.
At this elevation in the eastern Sierra, expect afternoon thunderstorms in summer and early season snow that can linger into June. The location puts you within two hours of both Mono Lake and Yosemite National Park for day trips.
Wildlife Reality
Black bear and mountain lions live here, along with mule deer, pine marten, and pika. Standard Sierra bear precautions apply — secure food and scented items properly.