- Location: June Lake, Inyo National Forest, California
- Month: July
- Site: Gull #158
- Bathrooms/showers: Yes/No
- Cost: $36
- Reservations: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232269?tab=info
- Cell coverage: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
If you have not made your way to the Eastern Sierra, June Lake is the perfect location for camping, hiking, backpacking, and lake side activities. OH Ridge is lakeside in addition to June Lake Campground, where I also have stayed and review!
Campground
This campground is settled right at the southern side of June Lake off Highway 58. The stunning views of the Eastern Sierra mountains surround June Lake and make for such a picturesque experience. The paved roads made it easily accessible too–there is no off-roading needed!
Upon my arrival to the campground, they were getting cones and signs ready in anticipation for a steady crowd of cars and people. The attendant told me that they get huge crowds during the summer. Many times they reach capacity and they have to close access to the beach and parking lot. Unfortunately, everyone has to pay for parking to access the lake beaches. However, the campground sits within a short walking distance from the lake, and there are some off-roading trails that lead to beaches at well that people used when the parking was full.
My other observations of OH Ridge Campground included some small walking trails in the surrounding areas, and that each loop in OH Ridge had a designated bathroom. In addition, the campground is definitely pet-friendly, and family friendly. It was an apparent hot-spot for RVs, off-roading vehicles, water sports, and hiking/backpacking.
Campsite
Surprisingly, I obtained a last-minute campsite reservation for OH Ridge campground. So I did not have many options at all when I booked, except for two. I chose Gull #158 because I was hoping for a lake view–I was not disappointed. On my walks with my pup, however, I quickly found some other sites with a far better view.
This campsite holds ample space for multiple tents, or camping equipment. There lay a fire pit, bear box, and table as permanent amenities. I could set up a large area for my dog to run around in without being in the neighboring campsites as well. I could also walk through my campsite and make my way to the road that led to the lake without having to go around. Although conveniently located, car traffic was prevalent throughout the day on that same road next to the campsite, so I felt many curious eyes.
My campsite’s trees provided excellent shade for the car, but the campsite itself lay exposed to the sun and any other elements–an umbrella is fiercely recommended. In addition, privacy was scared. With the road behind the campsite, and no surrounding trees or bushes, I definitely felt like I was in a heated fish bowl depending on the time of day.
June Lake is stunning location, and I would say getting a campsite so close to this lake is itself a luxury. If I had the choice, I would try a different campsite with a better view. However, I enjoyed my time at this campsite at the end of the day. It was a quick walk to the lake, and it had all the amenities I needed in the campground.
What is nearby June Lake?
As mentioned in my post about June Lake, this campground is near the town of June Lake that houses the marina, Tiger Bar & Cafe, the June Lake General Store, and various places to stay as well.
Just passed the town, you will find more lakes like Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake, as scenic views of Horsetail Falls. The campsites nearby include: Silver Lake Campground, Reversed Creek Campground, RV Park and Cabins at Silver Lake Resort, Gull Lake Campground, Golden Pine RV Park, June Lake campground, and Pine Cliff Resort.
Some trails nearby include: Yost Loop Trail, as well as Reversed Creek Trail, June Lake Loop, and Gull Lake Loop. Finally, Rush Creek Trail is also a gateway to Gem Lake, Thousand Island Lake, and Agnew Lake as well.
In addition, June Lake lands less than a 30 minute drive from Mammoth Lakes and if you’re not familiar with Mammoth, that is a pitstop worth taking.
How Easy is it to book?
Peak summer times in Eastern Sierra are alway difficult to book because it’s in such high demand, ESPECIALLY campgrounds around June Lake, because, hello, it’s beautiful. However, I diligently look at campsites two or so weeks before I went. Although I did not get a site I wanted, I still was able to book one. Cancellation policies tend to be 7 days out, so sites will open up in the last week or so. The link to book is at the beginning of this post, and is not difficult to figure out. If you’re new to booking, I would recommend making an account first so you don’t lose your reservation.
Final Thoughts
I am an absolute Eastern Sierra fanatic—especially if you’re talking about June Lake and Mammoth Lakes area. The location of the campground made for SUCH beautiful experience that immediately immerses you in the Eastern Sierra Splendor. I think June Lake is an incredible spot for outdoor lovers with such a variety of outdoor activities that I would recommend it for anyone.
However, I would likely try to book a different campsite. I think the campground is perfectly located in a place not far from the town, but also conveniently close the beaches around June Lake. It has the amenities you need for a peaceful stay, and the staff, as usual, are very friendly. I just feel like there were other campsite that had a better view, more privacy, or less foot or car traffic.
But staying so close to June Lake is a luxury in and of itself, so go book a spot!
Curious about other campsites in California? I review all the wonderful campsites (and not so wonderful campsites) here that I have stayed at. Take a peek, get outside, and happy adventuring!
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