Sherwin Creek

SHERWIN CREEK

Part of Inyo National Forest

Overview

Sherwin Creek Campground is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains within 2 miles of the full-service community of Mammoth Lakes, California. Popular among anglers, hikers, off-road vehicle enthusiasts and photographers, the campground is near some of the most spectacular wilderness and outdoor recreation areas in the Sierras.

Facilities

This large campground has campsites organized into three loops, all within walking distance of the creek. Several tent-only, walk-to sites make up another loop in a secluded area on either side of the creek. Sites have a native surface and plenty of shade.

Natural Features

The campground is situated in a shady forest of Jeffery pine, bordered by aspen-lined Sherwin Creek. The elevation is 7,600 feet. Wild roses and other flowers bring color to the landscape in spring and early summer.

Many species of wildlife call the mountains home, such as black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika and numerous fish and birds.

Recreation

With a motocross track and trails, Sherwin Creek is a hot spot for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are also a draw for hikers. The Valentine Lake Trail and additional trailheads provide access to the John Muir Wilderness.

The eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for their exceptional trout fishing. Anglers can try for rainbow trout in the creek.

Nearby Attractions

For campers interested in local events, the Mammoth Lakes Jazz Jubilee is hosted in Mammoth annually in mid-July. Several other events and amenities are available in town.

Many great day trips for sightseers are available in the area, such as Yosemite National Park, Mono Basin and Devils Postpile National Monument.

Important Notices

  • Access is via 1.5 miles on a two-lane gravel road
  • Campground usually not clear of snow until late May or early June
  • Campers bringing off-road vehicles must see the campground host regarding rules
  • This is a high elevation facility; please use caution when traveling from lower elevations
  • Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating; always keep a clean camp and do not feed any wild animals
  • No electric hookups and no showers
  • Only 2 pets per site allowed.

  • Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center, (760) 924-5500, or the Mono Lakes Visitor Center, (760) 647-3044.

  • Please Note: One RV with tow per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Some sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee. In accordance with standard industry practices, Inyo Recreation will assess an additional $10.00 extra vehicle fee per day for the second vehicle in each single family campsite, and on the third and fourth vehicle in any double family campsite, provided these vehicles are not joined to the first vehicle by a hitch and towed onto the site. In the case of motorcycles, the first two are considered one vehicle, and the third and fourth motorcycle are also considered one vehicle. No additional vehicle fees are collected for bicycles.

  • Reserved Sites will be held until checkout time (NOON) the day following your arrival date. Sites must be occupied by the checkout time of the second day to hold a reservation or the site will be forfeited and released to other guests. Please call the office at 760-934-5795 if you need to inform the campground of an arrival time greater than 24 hours after your arrival date, or if you will not use your reservation whatsoever.

  • Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
  • Click here for more information about the Inyo National Forest

  • PASS DISCOUNTS: You must provide your pass and photo identification upon check in. If you received a pass discount for which you were not eligible, you must pay the difference in price upon arrival.

Notifications and Alerts

  • EXTRA VEHICLE FEES: One vehicle is included in your reservation. Any additional vehicles will be charged $10.00 per vehicle, per night and will be collected by the camp host.

Available Activities

  • VISITOR CENTER - Ranger Station
  • HUNTING - Hunting
  • HORSEBACK RIDING - Horseback Riding
  • HIKING - Hiking
  • FISHING - Fishing
  • CAMPING - Camping
  • BOATING - Marina
  • BIKING - Biking

Directions

Take U.S. Highway 395 to State Highway 203 to Mammoth Lakes. Take a left at the first traffic light in town onto Old Mammoth Road. Drive south 0.9 miles to Sherwin Creek Road. Turn left and proceed 1.5 miles to the campground.

Cancellation Policy

<p>Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.</p>

Contact Information

MAMMOTH LAKES, CA 93546

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery