Coldwater Campground at Mammoth Lakes is located just upstream from Lake Mary in the Mammoth Lakes area of the Inyo National Forest. The campground is popular with those who like being close enough to walk to the lake for some early morning fishing or kayaking. A pair of small marinas at the lake rent a variety of boats from kayaks and canoes to pontoon boats. The trail to Arrowhead Lake begins at the upper end of the campground. Several other trails lead out to other scenic destinations.
Coldwater Campground has 74 sites arranged on two loops. Two creeks chatter along either side of the campground and a mixture of rocks and pines give the campground a rugged, wilderness feel. Some campsites are rather close together, however more isolated ones can be found around the perimeter. Virtually all campsites have plenty of shade. At an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet, nights can be chilly.
| Coldwater Campground at Mammoth Lakes Basics | |
|---|---|
| Coldwater Campground at Mammoth Lakes Location: | Upstream from Lake Mary along Coldwater Creek in Mammoth Lakes |
| Elevation: | 8,900 feet |
| Mileage from major cities: | 320 miles north of Los Angeles 180 miles south of Reno. |
| Number of Campsites: | 74 |
| Camping Season: | Late May through September, depending on weather |
| Max. People per Site: | 6 (including children) |
| Vehicles per Site: | 2 vehicle, 2nd vehicle $7 |
| Maximum Length of Stay: | 14 days |
| Pets: | Maximum of 2, on leash, always attended |
| Operated by | California Land Management/Inyo Recreation for Inyo National Forest |
| Information - Inyo NF, Bishop |
(760) 873-2400 |
| Reservations at Coldwater Campground at Mammoth Lakes | |
|---|---|
| Reservations available: | Coldwater Campground at Mammoth Lakes reservations are available whenever campground is open, from 24 hours to 6 months in advance |
| Maximum RV/Trailer Length: | 38 feet |
| Accessible Sites: | None designated |
| Favorite Campsites: | #15, 22, 24, 30, 36, 42, 50, 51, 61, 63, 76 |
| Fees: | $32 per night ($2 more on holiday weekends)
Plus $10 reservation fee |
| Reservations: | Coldwater Campground at Mammoth Lakes Reservations |
| Check-in, check-out: | Check-in: 2:00 PM Check-out: Noon |
| Coldwater Campground at Mammoth Lakes Amenities | |
|---|---|
| Campsites: | Picnic table, fire ring, food storage locker; no hook-ups |
| Campground: | Restrooms with flush toilets, tap water |
| Cell Phone Service: | ATT |
| Showers: | Find showers at Twin Lakes Store, $5 per person |
| Dump station: | No |
| Attractions near Coldwater Campground: |
Trout Fishing Best Sellers |
Arrowhead Lake
Not all campsites can accommodate trailers or RVs of all lengths. Obtain firewood locally to avoid spreading pests.
Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate
Coldwater Campground
Visitors at Coldwater Campground are close to all the great activities and attractions around Mammoth Lakes.
Check Inyo National Forest - Coldwater Campground for any campground updates.
Reviews from Previous Campers
2024