Owens River Road Dispersed Camping Guide 2025

If you’re looking for a dispersed camping spot that offers easy access to the Eastern Sierra’s dramatic landscapes, Owens River Road is a place we’d definitely suggest checking out. It’s located just a short drive from Mammoth Lakes, California, and offers a solid mix of quiet forest settings, open meadows, and stunning mountain backdrops. This isn’t a designated campground—there are no picnic tables, no bathrooms, and no reservations. But for those of us who enjoy true off-grid camping, it’s a gem.

One of the biggest reasons Owens River Road stands out is how close it is to adventure. From here, you’re a quick drive to hot springs, hiking trails, and even fishing access points along the Owens River. And unlike some other popular dispersed camping areas, it still manages to feel peaceful—especially if you arrive midweek or know where to look for less crowded spots.

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How to Get There

Owens River Road is located just east of Highway 395, between Mammoth Lakes and Bishop in Inyo National Forest. The turnoff is about 2 miles north of the Mammoth Scenic Loop junction. If you’re coming from Mammoth Lakes, head north on Highway 395 for around 5 minutes and watch for a well-marked sign for Owens River Road (Forest Road 3S05).

The road itself is unpaved but relatively well-maintained in dry conditions. Most high-clearance vehicles and even some sedans can make it, though we’d recommend AWD if you’re exploring farther in or visiting after rain. There’s no official parking area—you simply find a safe pull-off or clearing along the road to set up camp. Just make sure you’re not blocking access and that your vehicle is fully off the roadway.

The nearest town with full services is Mammoth Lakes, about 15 minutes away. You can grab supplies, fuel, or food there before heading into the woods.

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Permits and Fees

One of the things we really appreciate about dispersed camping on Owens River Road is that it’s free and relatively simple. No permits or reservations are required for most individual camping situations. That said, there are a few rules to keep in mind:

• No camping permits required if you’re staying fewer than 14 days within a 28-day period.
• Campfire permits are required if you plan to have a campfire, even for using a portable stove. You can get one online or from a local ranger station, and they’re usually free.
• If you’re planning a large group trip (more than 75 people), you’ll need a special use permit.

Always double-check current fire restrictions before your trip. During dry months (usually mid to late summer), fire bans are common, even for stoves.

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Camping Rules and Regulations

Owens River Road camping is 100% dispersed, meaning you won’t find amenities or marked sites. But with that freedom comes responsibility. These are the current rules and good practices to follow:

• Camp only in previously used clearings or durable surfaces like gravel or packed dirt. Avoid creating new sites in meadows or soft ground.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from water sources, including streams and springs, to protect local wildlife and prevent erosion.
• Pack out everything you bring in. That includes trash, food scraps, and even toilet paper. There’s no trash service, so plan to carry it all back out with you.
• Maximum stay limit is 14 days within a 28-day period.
• Fires are only allowed with a valid campfire permit and if no seasonal restrictions are in place. Always use an existing fire ring and never leave your fire unattended.
• Group size should generally stay below 25 people unless you’ve secured a group permit.
• Respect the wildlife and never feed animals. This area is home to deer, bears, and coyotes.

These guidelines aren’t just legal rules—they’re what help keep places like Owens River Road open and enjoyable for all of us.

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Best Camping Spots and Recommendations

The great thing about Owens River Road is how many options you have for setting up camp. There’s a long stretch of forest roads branching off the main path, and if you’re willing to drive a little farther in, you can find spots with serious solitude.

If you prefer easy access and are camping in a sedan or van, we’d recommend finding a spot within the first 2–3 miles from the 395 turnoff. These sites tend to be flatter, closer to the main road, and often shaded by tall pine trees. However, they also fill up faster—especially on summer weekends.

For more privacy and better views, continue driving further east or take one of the side roads like Deadman Creek Road or Big Springs Road. These areas tend to have more open views and less foot traffic. Just be mindful that the road conditions can get rougher the farther you go, and high clearance might be necessary.

Another good tip: bring your own fire ring (a collapsible one works great) or find a spot with an already-established one. Digging a new pit isn’t recommended and is often prohibited.

During summer months, crowd levels increase—especially around weekends and holidays. If you’re hoping for peace and quiet, midweek arrivals and early check-ins (before noon) tend to work best.

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Hiking Trails and Routes

One of the great things about camping near Owens River Road is that you’re close to some incredible hiking opportunities. While there aren’t trails starting directly from the camping pull-offs, you’re only a short drive away from well-known paths in the Mammoth Lakes region and Inyo National Forest.

If you’re up for a scenic day hike, Convict Lake Loop Trail is just a short drive south and offers an easy 2.5-mile loop around a pristine alpine lake. It’s mostly flat and perfect if you’re easing into the elevation. Another popular option is Duck Pass Trail, starting near Lake Mary. It’s a more challenging route—around 10 miles round-trip with solid elevation gain—but the views of alpine lakes along the way are worth it.

Closer to Owens River Road itself, Hot Creek Geological Site offers a mellow walk with boardwalks and trails around the geothermal features. You won’t break a sweat here, but the landscape is unique and photogenic. Also nearby is Inyo Craters Trail, about a 1.6-mile loop that leads you to some unusual volcanic craters hidden in the forest.

Terrain-wise, you’ll encounter everything from packed dirt paths and pine forest to rocky slopes and open meadows. Maps are available at local ranger stations or you can preload offline trail apps. Cell reception can be spotty, so it’s best to come prepared.

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Packing List and Gear Guide

Because you’re camping in a completely undeveloped area, there are no bathrooms, water, or trash service. That means bringing the right gear isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Here’s a quick list of what we’d pack (and recommend you do too):

• Water storage containers: Bring at least 2–4 gallons per person, per day.
• Water filtration system: Even if you plan to bring your own water, having a backup like a gravity filter or UV purifier is a smart move.
• Portable toilet or wag bags: There are no restrooms, and digging catholes isn’t always ideal in these rocky areas.
• Bear-proof food storage: Bears roam this region, especially in summer. A hard-sided cooler or bear canister is recommended.
• Headlamps or lanterns: It gets pitch dark here after sunset, and you’ll want hands-free lighting for cooking or finding your way around camp.
• First aid kit and repair supplies: Basic gear repairs, blister care, and bug bite treatment can go a long way.
• Camp stove or portable fire ring: With fire restrictions changing often, having a reliable stove is a must. A collapsible fire pit is great if campfires are allowed.
• Dust protection: A bandana or neck gaiter is helpful when the wind kicks up sand or ash-like dirt from the forest floor.

And don’t forget your layers. Temperatures can shift fast from day to night, even in summer.

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Water and Food Tips

One of the biggest challenges out here is the lack of potable water. There are no water spigots or natural springs near the common camping areas. If you’re planning to stay more than one night, bring more water than you think you’ll need—and then some.

If you’re exploring the surrounding area and might collect water from creeks or lakes, filter or treat everything. A gravity filter system works well for groups, but tablets or UV purifiers are solid lightweight options too.

For food, treat it like you’re in bear country—because you are. Even if you don’t see them, black bears have been spotted throughout this area, especially near Hot Creek and the upper Owens River. We recommend using a bear canister or at least locking up your cooler in your vehicle overnight. Avoid leaving food wrappers or cooking gear out when not in use.

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Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

Owens River Road is typically accessible from late May through October, depending on snowmelt and fire conditions. Summer is the most popular time to visit—but it also comes with challenges like bugs, dust, and fire restrictions.

In June and early July, you’ll usually get mild days and cool nights, with wildflowers starting to bloom in higher elevations. August is warm and dry but can bring thunderstorms in the afternoon. The road can get dusty and crowded during this stretch. By September, the crowds start to thin, and the weather is still pleasant—this is often our favorite time to recommend for peaceful camping.

Keep in mind:

• Mosquitoes can be brutal in early summer, especially near water. Bug spray, head nets, and long sleeves help.
• Afternoon storms are common in midsummer, so plan hikes early and secure your gear if clouds start to build.
• Nights get cold, even in July. Temperatures can drop into the 30s or 40s, so pack a proper sleeping bag and insulated clothing.

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Safety and Navigation

While Owens River Road is fairly accessible, don’t let that fool you—this is still wild country, and it’s easy to get disoriented if you’re not paying attention.

Here’s what we’d recommend:

• Download offline maps or bring a printed map of the area. Apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails work great if preloaded.
• Cell service is very limited, especially once you leave the highway. You might get a few bars near Mammoth, but don’t rely on it for directions or emergency contact.
• Mark your campsite location on your phone or GPS before you wander too far. It’s easy to lose track of which dirt road you came in on.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to be back—especially if you’re solo camping.
• Watch for wildlife, including bears, snakes, and deer that wander into the road at dusk.
• Carry a basic emergency kit with bandages, medications, a whistle, and an emergency blanket. A satellite messenger or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is worth it if you camp in remote areas often.

Camping off Owens River Road is a fantastic experience for those who want to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors—but only if you come prepared. With the right gear, good planning, and an eye on the weather, you’ll be set up for an incredible trip in this rugged and beautiful stretch of the Eastern Sierra.

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Leave No Trace Principles

Owens River Road offers a raw, open-air experience—no bathrooms, no trash bins, no designated fire rings. That’s part of what makes dispersed camping here feel so free. But it also means it’s up to us to protect this beautiful spot. Following Leave No Trace principles is the best way to make sure this place stays special for others.

We always recommend packing out every single item you bring in—yes, even those tiny food wrappers or burned firewood scraps. Bring a trash bag, and don’t leave anything behind, even if you think it will break down.

If you need to go to the bathroom and don’t have a portable toilet, dig a cathole at least 6–8 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources, campsites, and trails. Pack out toilet paper if possible (you can bring a sealable bag for this).

Stick to existing pullouts and dirt clearings rather than creating new campsites. And if you’re having a campfire (and it’s allowed), only use existing fire scars or bring a portable fire pit. Always drown out fires completely and stir the ashes until they’re cold.

Basically, try to leave your spot better than you found it. The more of us who follow that rule, the longer this area can remain open to free camping.

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Nearby Attractions

One of the perks of camping off Owens River Road is how close you are to some of the Eastern Sierra’s gems. If you’re up for exploring beyond your campsite, here are a few places worth checking out:

• Hot Creek Geological Site: Just a few miles south, this area has boardwalks around steaming geothermal vents. You can’t swim here, but it’s a surreal spot to walk around.
• Mammoth Lakes Basin: Drive west into the mountains and you’ll find a string of stunning alpine lakes, perfect for kayaking, fishing, or lakeside picnics.
• Convict Lake: Known for its crystal-clear water and dramatic backdrop, this lake is great for a quick hike or a peaceful afternoon on the shoreline.
• Devils Postpile National Monument: About an hour’s drive away (plus a shuttle ride in summer), this site features mind-blowing columnar basalt formations and the nearby Rainbow Falls.
• June Lake Loop: A scenic drive north with multiple lakes, beaches, and fishing spots along the way.

You don’t need to go far from camp to find adventure here.

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Suggested Itineraries

Quick 1-Night Trip

If you’ve only got one night to spend out here, we’d suggest:

• Camp near the Owens River or a forested pullout farther from the road for quiet.
• Pack basic overnight gear: tent, sleeping bag rated for cool temps, water jugs, a headlamp, bug spray, and a small cooler with dinner and breakfast.
• Do a short afternoon hike around Hot Creek or drive to Convict Lake for a sunset walk.
• Enjoy dinner under the stars and leave by mid-morning before the winds or heat pick up.

2–3 Night Adventure

For a slightly longer trip:

• Night 1: Camp along Owens River Road closer to the south entrance for easier access.
• Day 2: Drive into Mammoth Lakes Basin for hiking (like Duck Pass or Lake George area). Cool off with a dip in one of the lakes.
• Night 2: Try a different campsite farther north on the road—more trees and privacy here.
• Day 3: Visit Hot Creek or June Lake on your way out.

What to Pack: Add more food, backup water filters, layers for mountain weather, a good camp chair, and a bear canister. A printed map and solar charger are nice extras for longer stays.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp anywhere along Owens River Road?

Not exactly anywhere, but you can camp in the designated dispersed areas, which are usually dirt clearings or pull-offs. You should avoid blocking roads or setting up in meadows or soft terrain that could get damaged.

Are campfires allowed in this area?

Fire rules change depending on the season. In many summer months, campfires are restricted due to wildfire risk. Always check current regulations and, if allowed, use existing fire rings or bring a portable fire pit. Never leave a fire unattended.

Do I need a permit to camp here?

No permit is required for dispersed camping along Owens River Road. But if you plan to hike into wilderness areas or stay longer than 14 days, different rules apply. Also, a California Campfire Permit may be needed for stoves and fires—even on dispersed land.

Is it safe to leave food in my car overnight?

We don’t recommend it. This is bear country. It’s better to use a bear-proof container or store food in a hard-sided vehicle during the night—out of sight and sealed up tight. Don’t leave food out at your site.

What’s the best time of year to camp here?

Late May through early October tends to be best. June and September are ideal if you want fewer bugs and milder temperatures. Snow can block access before May, and fire season often limits camping into October.

Can I bring my dog to Owens River Road?

Yes, dogs are welcome here! Just keep them on a leash when near other campers or wildlife. Bring plenty of water for them, especially in the heat, and always clean up waste.

How’s the road condition—can I drive a sedan?

You don’t need a high-clearance vehicle for most of Owens River Road. A standard sedan can usually handle it, especially in dry conditions. Some side roads can get rough or sandy, so avoid those unless you have AWD or 4WD.

Are there toilets or trash bins nearby?

Nope, it’s all primitive. There are no bathrooms, dumpsters, or water stations, so you’ll need to bring everything you need—including your own toilet setup or wag bags—and pack out all trash.

Is cell service available?

Service is spotty at best. You might get a weak signal closer to Mammoth, but it’s unreliable. Download maps ahead of time and plan to be offline.

Can I stay longer than a weekend?

You can camp up to 14 days in a 30-day period on public lands like this. But keep in mind you’ll need to bring a lot of supplies to stay that long—especially water—and should move your site every few days to avoid overuse in one spot.

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Owens River Road offers a raw, peaceful kind of camping that’s hard to find these days. With the right mindset and gear, it’s a chance to unplug and soak in the beauty of the Eastern Sierra. Whether you’re out here for a night or a few days, the freedom and scenery are well worth the effort.