Tuff Campground sits along Rock Creek at 7,000 feet, making it one of the first Sierra campgrounds to open each spring — usually the last weekend in April to coincide with trout season. The 34 sites spread across three loops offer a mix of creekside shade and open sagebrush terrain beneath the volcanic Tuff rock formations that give the camp its name.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 34
- 💵Fee per Night
- $33
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 7,000 ft
- 📍GPS
- 37.56250, -118.66417
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 760-935-4026
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground's three loops are well spread out, giving each of the 34 sites room to breathe. Sites along Rock Creek offer shade and the constant sound of cascading water, while those at the foot of the Tuff rock formations catch more sun in the open sagebrush landscape. Aspens, cottonwood, and Jeffrey pines fill in around the edges. Gravel roads connect the loops, and the sites accommodate both small RVs and trailers as well as level tent spots.
At 7,000 feet, Tuff runs cooler than the desert floor but warmer than the high country — a sweet spot that extends the season on both ends. The clear, cold Rock Creek provides the soundtrack, and wildlife viewing opportunities include black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, and pika.
What to Know
The campground's lower elevation advantage means it opens earlier than most Sierra camps, typically the last weekend in April when trout season begins. Reservations are required for all sites at $33 per night. Firewood is available for purchase on-site, and Tom's Place — a short drive away along Highway 395 — stocks supplies and offers fee showers.
Nearby
Rock Creek and the nearby Rock Creek Lake and Crawley Lake are prime trout water, with brook, brown, rainbow, and stocked Alpers trout. The area's trails draw hikers and mountain bikers looking for challenging terrain amid volcanic rock formations. Tom's Place provides convenient access to Highway 395, putting you within range of events like Bishop's Mule Days over Memorial Day weekend or Mammoth's Jazz Jubilee in mid-July.