Coldwater Campground is located just upstream from Lake Mary in the Mammoth Lakes area of the Inyo National Forest. Campers at Coldwater Campground are close to several of the most popular of the Mammoth Lakes.
A cluster of 5 alpine lakes make up the Mammoth Lakes region of the Eastern Sierra. Together with the village of Mammoth Lakes and the ski resort at Mammoth Mountain, the entire Mammoth Lakes region draws visitors and vacation condo owners from as far away as San Francisco, Reno, and Los Angles. Summer recreation activities include mountain biking, hiking, boating, fishing, and horseback riding. Trail rides are available at nearby Mammoth Lakes Pack Outfit. Several marinas on the lakes provide boat rentals and launch ramps. In summer, Mammoth Mountain ski slopes transform into thrilling mountain biking trails. Hikers strike out for nearby alpine lakes and scenic views.
Around the Mammoth Lakes Village and connecting to the lakes is a paved bike/walk trail. Up at the foot of Mammoth Mountain, the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center is the base for a multitude of activities, many geared for children. Among them are a ropes course, a rock climbing wall, a bungee trampoline, and zip lines. At nearby Woolly's Adventure Summit they offer mountain coaster rides and summer tubing. Top it off with a scenic gondola ride to the top of Mammoth Mountain.
Coldwater Campground is popular with those who like being close enough to walk to Lake Mary 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, and several other trails lead away to a number of 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. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food storage box. In the campground are restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water spigots. 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.
| Campground 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 | |
|---|---|
| Reservations available: | Coldwater Campground reservations are available whenever campground is open, usually late May through September. Reservations can be made 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: | $33 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 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 |
| Updates | Last Updated April 2025 |
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 for any campground or park updates:
Reviews from Previous Campers
2024