About PALISADES GROUP CAMPGROUND
Overview Palisades Group Campground lies along Rock Creek in Inyo National Forest, near Mammoth Lakes and Bishop, California. Well-suited for large families and groups, the facility provides access to fishing, hiking, scenic driving, photography and wildlife viewing.Recreation Hiking and fishing opportunities abound, with local lakes and streams within walking and driving distance. The eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for their exceptional trout fishing. A catch from the creek may including brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout, while anglers may be treated to golden trout in the backcountry. There are several hiking trails in and around Rock Creek Canyon, some of which meander around high-elevation alpine lakes.Facilities Palisades has ample shade and a private loop with five tables and campfire rings. The site can also serve as an overflow group campground for groups of 25 or less who are not able to reserve the nearby Rock Creek Lake Group site.Natural Features The campground sits at an elevation of 8.800 feet, at the bottom of a steep canyon adjacent to Rock Creek and amidst aspen and lodgepole pine trees. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martin, pika and many species of fish and birds. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (760) 935-4824. Nearby Attractions For campers interested in local events, Mule Days are held in nearby Bishop over Memorial Day weekend, and the Mammoth Jazz Jubilee is hosted in Mammoth in mid-July.
How to Get There
From U.S. Highway 395, take the Tom's Place exit, 13 miles south of Mammoth Lakes or 30 miles north of Bishop. Turn left on Rock Creek Road and follow for about 6 miles to Palisades Group Campground on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to PALISADES GROUP CAMPGROUND
Heading to PALISADES GROUP CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for PALISADES GROUP CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for PALISADES GROUP CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234663) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PALISADES GROUP CAMPGROUND?
From U.S. Highway 395, take the Tom's Place exit, 13 miles south of Mammoth Lakes or 30 miles north of Bishop. Turn left on Rock Creek Road and follow for about 6 miles to Palisades Group Campground on the right.
How do I contact PALISADES GROUP CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-935-4825.
References & Official Resources
