• Location: Inyo National Forest, Mammoth Lakes, CA
• Month: July
• Site: #002
• Bathrooms/showers: Yes/Yes
• Cost: $41 online
• Reservations: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234311
• Cell Coverage: Low/Limited
• Pet-friendly: Yes

Campground

Convict Lake Campground was SUCH a precious campground that I did not expect. I truthfully felt it was overrated because it is so popular amongst tourists.

At first glance, I just saw a very open campground settled against the gorgeous backdrop of the Eastern Sierra that surrounds Convict Lake. About half of the campground lacked the privacy or trees  in most of the campground—the rest was surrounded by bushes or smaller trees as well. However, when I say this campground, I saw it was a VIBE–I am not exaggerating.

During the time I spent there, a thunderstorm rolled in and the immense crowds at the lake dispersed. That calm and peaceful atmosphere that you CANNOT find anywhere else? I found that here.

Campsite

Now, I loved this campground. However, I did not love the campsite I booked. I tried selecting a campsite that was nearest to the lake, however, I definitely would have selected  any of the campsites that were further in instead. Campsite #002 was not lakeside despite it looking close to it on the map. I loved the views it presented, however, it felt like I was right next to the camphost and he could see everything I was doing. In addition, the campground only had one way in and out, and every car would pass by my campsite, in addition to any person walking their dogs or headed to the lake. 

But, the campsite in general was fantastic. It held a bear box, a picnic table and ample space for my large tent. The parking spot was large enough for two cars in tandem, and it was very clean. In the heat of summer, I would not recommend as it had absolutely no trees. Many of these campsites had no tree coverage, however, I went in mid-summer and I did not have any issues with temperature there due to the elevation.

What is nearby Convict Lake Campground?

Obviously, Convict Lake lies next to the campground. The Marina is available just around the bend as well. There is a trailhead that originates from the marina around the entire lake which is exquisitely beautiful. And on the way out of the area, Convict Lake Resort lies right at the entrance. There were showers, laundry, cabins, a grocery store, and a restaurant. This is a perfect place for a wedding reception, there are horseback guided rides, and lovely lodgings.

Outside of the immediate area, there are SO MANY options. Mammoth Lakes lies about 20 minutes north of Convict Lake. June Lake lies 30 minutes north. Wild Willy’s is about 20 minutes. Little Lakes Valley Trail is about 40 minutes. Lake Crowley is about 15 minutes away. And there are so.much.more wonderful places around.   

How Easy is it to book?

Peak summer times in Eastern Sierra are alway difficult to book because it’s in such high demand. However, I diligently looked at campsites in Convict Lake repeatedly and got the campsite I wanted even two or so weeks before I went.

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

Would I come back here? Absolutely. But I would definitely choose a different campsite. My only complaint is that there was a wedding reception at the resort, and I could clearly hear the music into the late evening. And although it was not loud, I prefer nature sounds. However, I was disappointed that I did not stay an additional night as I felt that I did not take advantage of the location. 

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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