Moraine Campground

For Californians, the lure of the Sierra Nevada is undeniable, offering countless opportunities for outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. Moraine Campground, located in Lee Vining, California, stands as a prime example of an accessible yet wonderfully rustic camping experience within the magnificent Inyo National Forest. Situated approximately 15 miles from the Tuolumne (east) entrance of Yosemite National Park, it serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring one of the state's most iconic natural wonders, or simply for immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Eastern Sierra. Imagine setting up your camp among towering aspen and pine trees, with the soothing sounds of Lee Vining Creek nearby, offering a tranquil escape from the everyday.

Moraine Campground is designed for those who appreciate a more traditional and less developed camping environment. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, appealing to spontaneous adventurers and those who prefer the flexibility of not needing advance reservations (though this also means arriving early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot). The campground offers a genuine connection to nature, with basic amenities that ensure comfort while maintaining an authentic wilderness feel. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, its proximity to unparalleled natural beauty, and its capacity to provide a peaceful setting for relaxation and outdoor pursuits.

Customer reviews offer valuable insights into the experience at Moraine Campground. One satisfied camper noted, "Great little campground. We had a nice spot for our trailer with east west views. There are nice spots by the creek for those who wish to be near the water. The campground host was very friendly and helpful. Pleasant to chat with her about the area and options for recreation." This highlights the pleasant environment and helpful staff, which are often key to a good camping trip. However, another review, while passionate, points to potential challenges, stating, "Avoid Campground Karen host!! We were scoping the campground for a future trip. There was a sign on the host’s canopy stating the host was off duty. We decided to continue our drive though the small loop as there was no one to check in with. My daughter asked if she could use the restroom, so we made a quick stop. While she was in there campground Karen showed up in a white van yelling that we were scaring off potential campers… no one had even driven through the loop since we’d arrived, literally 3 minutes prior. She continued to scream and try to argue with us as we were driving away. We’ve been camping for YEARS, and have never come upon someone quite this angry for absolutely no reason. If she had been there when we arrived, we would have checked in. Too bad she went psycho!" While this review is an outlier and reflects an isolated negative interaction, it serves as a reminder that individual experiences with staff can vary and that it's always wise to check in with a host if present, even if signs indicate they are off-duty.

Moraine Campground is strategically located at 9806 CA-120, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA. This places it directly on California State Route 120, a well-known highway that leads to the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park (Tioga Pass). Its proximity to Yosemite, approximately 15 miles from the park's Tuolumne Meadows area, makes it an excellent choice for Californians planning to explore Yosemite's high country. Lee Vining itself is a small, charming town on the shores of Mono Lake, offering basic services, gas, and supplies. The campground sits at an elevation of around 7,300 feet, providing a refreshing climate, especially during the warmer summer months. Access to Moraine Campground is generally straightforward via paved roads, making it suitable for both tents and RVs up to approximately 30 feet in length. The drive to the campground is scenic, offering glimpses of the dramatic Sierra Nevada landscape.

Moraine Campground, being a rustic U.S. Forest Service campground, provides essential services that cater to a traditional camping experience. It's designed for campers who prioritize natural immersion over extensive modern amenities.

• Campsites: Offers 27 campsites of decent size, accommodating tents and RVs up to 30 feet. Some sites are designated tent-only.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor meals and gathering.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Available at each site for campfires and cooking (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Food Storage Lockers: Critically important in this active bear area, bear-proof food storage lockers are provided at each site. All food, drinks, scented items, and cooking equipment must be stored within these lockers when not in immediate use, day and night.
• Vault Toilets: Basic, non-flush toilet facilities are available within the campground.
• Drinking Water: Potable water spigots are available, providing a convenient source of fresh water.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, eliminating the need for advance reservations.
• Trash Collection: Bear-proof trash dumpsters are available for waste disposal.
• Campground Host: A host is typically on-site to assist campers and provide information about the area, as noted in a customer review.

It's important to note that Moraine Campground does NOT offer services like electric hookups, sewer hookups, or showers. Campers should be prepared for a rustic experience and plan accordingly. Cell service in the immediate area is often poor or non-existent, encouraging a true digital detox.

Moraine Campground's charm lies in its distinctive features and the unique natural experiences it offers, making it a memorable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Proximity to Yosemite National Park: Serves as a fantastic basecamp for exploring the iconic Yosemite National Park, particularly its quieter eastern side (Tuolumne Meadows).
• Lee Vining Creek Access: Many sites are located near or along Lee Vining Creek, providing a peaceful ambiance and opportunities for fishing.
• Scenic Forest Setting: Surrounded by a beautiful forest of aspen and pine trees, offering natural shade and a picturesque backdrop.
• Bear Country Awareness: The active bear presence necessitates the use of provided bear lockers, promoting responsible wildlife interaction.
• East-West Views: Some sites offer scenic "east west views," potentially providing stunning sunrise or sunset vistas.
• Friendly Camp Host: Positive reviews highlight the helpfulness and friendliness of the campground host, enhancing the visitor experience.
• Rustic Charm: Appeals to campers who prefer a more traditional, less commercialized camping experience, focusing on immersion in nature.
• Outdoor Recreation: The surrounding Inyo National Forest and nearby Yosemite offer endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, biking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
• Stargazing: Being away from major city lights, the campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

As a U.S. Forest Service campground, Moraine Campground does not have a dedicated on-site office with a direct, publicly listed phone number separate from the managing ranger district. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding conditions, availability, fire restrictions, or any other inquiries, it is best to contact the Inyo National Forest's Mono Lake Ranger District directly. The general information for the Inyo National Forest is:

Address: 9806 CA-120, Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA (This is the general address for the area, not a specific office.)

Phone: (760) 647-3044 (This phone number is associated with the Mono Lake Ranger District, which oversees campgrounds in the Lee Vining area, including Moraine Campground.)

For reservations (as it is first-come, first-served, no direct reservations are typically made for Moraine itself, but for general area info), check the U.S. Forest Service website for the Inyo National Forest, or resources like Recreation.gov might have general information about these types of campgrounds.

For Californians, Moraine Campground in Lee Vining offers a uniquely appealing and highly suitable camping experience, particularly for those looking to embrace the wild beauty of the Eastern Sierra. Its distinct advantages cater perfectly to the local adventurer's spirit. Firstly, its prime location near the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park means that Californians can access one of the state's crown jewels with relative ease, avoiding the often crowded western entrances and experiencing a different, equally magnificent side of the park. This proximity also positions it as an ideal launching pad for exploring the broader wonders of the Inyo National Forest, from Mono Lake's eerie tufa towers to numerous high-altitude hiking trails.

The first-come, first-served policy, while sometimes requiring early arrival, offers flexibility that many spontaneous California adventurers appreciate. It embodies a more traditional, less scheduled approach to camping that resonates with those seeking genuine outdoor freedom. The rustic amenities, including vault toilets and vital bear lockers, underscore a commitment to preserving the natural environment while ensuring safety in bear country – a crucial aspect for responsible California campers. The positive notes about friendly camp hosts further enhance the welcoming atmosphere. Despite the isolated negative interaction mentioned in a review, the overall sentiment points to a well-regarded site. For any Californian yearning for a peaceful, authentic, and naturally immersive camping experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada, Moraine Campground is an excellent choice, providing an accessible gateway to some of the state's most cherished landscapes and the perfect opportunity to unplug and reconnect with nature.