Trumbull Lake Campground

For Californians seeking an unforgettable high-country escape, Trumbull Lake Campground stands out as a pristine and highly desirable destination in the majestic Eastern Sierra. Located near Lee Vining, this popular campground offers more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it provides a gateway to some of California's most breathtaking natural beauty and unparalleled outdoor recreation. Nestled amidst towering peaks and surrounded by a network of sparkling alpine lakes, Trumbull Lake Campground is a haven for hikers, anglers, and anyone simply looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the mountains.

What truly sets Trumbull Lake Campground apart for local users is its combination of stunning natural surroundings and well-maintained facilities. It’s a place where the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada is easily accessible, offering decent-sized sites, clean restrooms, and the welcoming presence of a camp host. While it’s essential to be aware of seasonal closures, as seen with the notice for June 2025, when open, Trumbull Lake promises an idyllic retreat. It’s an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike who are drawn to the allure of clear mountain air, pristine waters, and endless opportunities for exploration right here in their California backyard.

Trumbull Lake Campground is beautifully situated in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, with its address listed as Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA. This prime location places it within the Inyo National Forest, a region renowned for its dramatic landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and iconic mountain peaks.

Accessing Trumbull Lake Campground is part of the scenic adventure. From Southern California, travelers typically take Highway 395 North. From Northern California, Highway 395 South is the main artery. Once on Highway 395, you will turn west onto California State Route 158, also known as the June Lake Loop, or turn off directly to the North or South towards Trumbull Lake. More specifically, from Lee Vining, you would head south on Highway 395 for a short distance before turning west onto a paved road that leads up to the June Lake Loop area and ultimately towards the campground. The drive itself is incredibly picturesque, winding through stunning mountain scenery. While the campground is nestled at a higher elevation, the main access roads leading to it are generally well-maintained paved roads. However, visitors should always check road conditions, especially during the spring and fall, as snow can impact accessibility, leading to seasonal closures. Its relatively straightforward access from Highway 395 makes it a convenient yet immersive high-country destination for Californians from across the state.

• Campsites: Trumbull Lake Campground offers individual campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis, although some popular sites may be reservable through Recreation.gov. The sites are generally described as "decent sized," providing adequate space for tents or RVs. It's noted that sites closer to the water tend to be smaller, offering a more intimate setting.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient and clean surface for meals, games, and outdoor activities.

• Fire Rings: Campers will find fire rings at each site, ideal for enjoying campfires and cooking. It is crucial to always check for current fire restrictions or bans, especially during dry seasons in California, to ensure safety and compliance with forest regulations.

• Vault Toilets / Restrooms: The campground provides restrooms, which have been positively reviewed as "clean." These are typically vault toilets, offering a basic but well-maintained sanitation option.

• Potable Water: Potable water is available within the campground, usually via spigots, which is a significant convenience for campers, eliminating the need to bring large quantities of drinking water.

• Dump Station: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, many campgrounds of this size and popularity in the Inyo National Forest offer a dump station for RVs, though it's always best to confirm directly with the Forest Service or on Recreation.gov.

• No Hookups: Trumbull Lake Campground operates as a more primitive, rustic experience, meaning individual campsites typically do not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. Campers should be prepared for "dry camping."

• Stunning High Sierra Location: The foremost highlight is its incredible setting within the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. This offers unparalleled natural beauty, with towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and lush forests providing a truly majestic backdrop for your camping experience.

• Exceptional Hiking Opportunities: Trumbull Lake Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for numerous hiking trails. Visitors have access to "lots of hiking to lakes," allowing for exploration of the breathtaking high-country scenery and access to additional remote fishing spots.

• Fantastic Fishing: For anglers, Trumbull Lake and the surrounding lakes are renowned for excellent fishing opportunities. It's a popular spot to cast a line and try to catch various trout species.

• Proximity to Trumbull Lake Resort: A significant convenience is the nearby Trumbull Lake Resort. This resort features a "store/restaurant with decent food (veggie options)" and offers " $5 showers," providing essential amenities and a touch of comfort that enhances the camping experience.

• Clean and Well-Kept Campground: Visitor reviews consistently praise the campground for being "nicely kept" and having "clean restrooms," indicating a high standard of maintenance and a pleasant environment for campers.

• Wonderful Camp Host: The presence of a "wonderful camp host" significantly contributes to the positive experience, offering assistance, information, and ensuring the smooth operation of the campground.

• Close to Mono Lake: For an unforgettable natural spectacle, Mono Lake is a short drive away. This unique saline lake offers "a sunrise walk" with incredible tufa towers and birdwatching opportunities, providing a distinct and mesmerizing side trip.

• Variety of Site Sizes: While some sites near the water are smaller, the overall availability of "decent sized" sites means campers can find a spot that suits their needs, whether for a tent or a small RV.

Address: Lee Vining, CA 93541, USA

Phone: (760) 932-7092

Mobile Phone: +1 760-932-7092

Trumbull Lake Campground is managed by a concessionaire under the oversight of the Inyo National Forest. For the most current and accurate information regarding reservations (if available), opening and closing dates, site availability, and any specific regulations, it is highly recommended to use the provided phone numbers or check the official recreation.gov website.

While a specific email is not listed, general inquiries for the Inyo National Forest can typically be directed to their main office. For immediate or campground-specific questions, the provided phone number is the best point of contact.

Inyo National Forest Supervisor's Office

351 Pacu Lane, Suite 200

Bishop, CA 93514

Phone: (760) 873-2400

Always check the Inyo National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/inyo) for fire restrictions, road conditions, and any unforeseen closures, especially for high-elevation campgrounds like Trumbull Lake.

For Californians, Trumbull Lake Campground is not just another camping spot; it's a quintessential Eastern Sierra experience that perfectly encapsulates the allure of the Golden State's majestic mountains. Its suitability for locals stems from its combination of accessibility to unparalleled natural beauty, essential amenities, and a wide array of recreational opportunities right in their backyard.

Firstly, its prime location near Lee Vining puts it within reasonable driving distance for many Californians, making it an ideal destination for weekend trips or longer summer vacations. Once there, the immediate access to "lots of hiking to lakes" and "fantastic fishing" in Trumbull Lake itself and surrounding waters means that outdoor enthusiasts have endless possibilities to explore and indulge in their favorite activities. This natural playground, set against the dramatic backdrop of the High Sierra, offers a profound sense of escape and rejuvenation that many Californians seek.

Secondly, the campground's reputation for being "nicely kept," having "clean restrooms," and the presence of a "wonderful camp host" elevate the experience from basic camping to a truly comfortable and welcoming stay. These amenities, coupled with the availability of potable water, reduce the logistical challenges often associated with more primitive sites, making it appealing for families and those new to mountain camping. The added convenience of the nearby Trumbull Lake Resort, offering a store, restaurant with veggie options, and affordable showers, provides an excellent safety net and enhances the overall comfort of the visit.

Finally, its proximity to iconic California landmarks like Mono Lake offers a unique cultural and natural side trip, adding another layer to the adventure. For Californians looking for a reliable, stunning, and well-supported basecamp to explore the awe-inspiring Eastern Sierra, Trumbull Lake Campground stands out as an exceptional choice, promising unforgettable memories amidst one of the state's most cherished landscapes.