Tuff Campground

Overview

Tuff Campground is situated along Rock Creek in the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. It is convenient to Tom's Place and U.S. Highway 395.

At an elevation of 7,000 ft., it is lower than many of the region's campgrounds and thus frequently one of the first campgrounds to open in the spring.

Popular activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing and viewing the area's volcanic rock formations.

Opening and closing dates for the season are dependent on weather. The campground usually opens the last weekend in April to coincide with the first day of fishing in the Sierras.

Recreation

Rock Creek and nearby Rock Creek Lake and Crawley Lake are hot spots for trout fishing. A catch from the creek may including brook, brown, rainbow and stocked Alpers trout.

The area's majestic scenery and challenging trails are an obvious draw for hikers and mountain bikers.

Facilities

This moderate-sized facility is well spread out over three loops. Some campsites sit in the shade along Rock Creek, and those at the foot of the Tuff rock formations receive more sun.

There is space for small trailers and RVs, as well as some very nice level sites for tents. The campground has gravel roads.

Firewood is available on-site for purchase, and Tom's Place has other supplies and fee showers within a short drive.

Natural Features

This campground is named for the Tuff rock formations that lie in and around it. Most campsites are situated in an open sagebrush landscape, with aspens, cottonwood and Jeffrey pine trees surrounding the area.

The clear, cold and cascading Rock Creek runs alongside the campsites, offering a relaxing sound for campers.

The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martin, pika and many species of fish and birds.

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.

Camp site features

Across 33 camp sites:

  • Pets allowed: all 33 sites
  • Longest rig: 45 ft
  • Largest party: 6 people

Directions

From Mammoth Lakes or Bishop, California: Take U.S. Highway 395 to the Owens Gorge Road exit at Tom's Place (25 miles north of Bishop and 13 miles south of Mammoth Lakes). Drive 200 yards east to the gravel road and continue north a short distance to the campground along Rock Creek. Follow signs.

Stay Limit

Check in from 2 PM, check out by 11 AM.

Reviews

136 reviews
5 stars
101
4 stars
23
3 stars
3
2 stars
4
1 stars
5
Mark P
Loop:Tuff
Site:
Reviewed 10 days ago
Well run camp sites. Close to creek and easy drive to Mammoth.
Rick S
Loop:Tuff
Site:
Reviewed 11 days ago
Great place. Close to many cool spots and adventures.
benjamin c
Loop:Tuff
Site:
Reviewed 15 days ago
Campground was an awesome hidden gem stayed at multiple camps further up rock creek and several in or around mammoth. This campground is tucked a short distance away from the 395 hidden under beautiful pine trees. The river backs several campground and it was an awesome place to get some quick fishing in before the end of the day. The camphost was great and very present throughout our stay. He taught us the meaning behind the campground name and was very friendly throughout our stay. Definitely planning another trip next spring when the weathers a bit cooler
Jason S
Loop:Tuff
Site:
Reviewed 20 days ago
Had item stolen from campsite first day here. Now that’s ghetto, stealing at a campground who does that? Apparently someone at tuff campground is a thief.
Jason S
Loop:Tuff
Site:
Reviewed 20 days ago
If you want your stuff stolen and your campsite host to do nothing this is the place to stay. Also, if you don’t like shade on a very hot day, this is a great place to stay. You’ll melt in the sun.
Maggie M
Loop:Tuff
Site:
Reviewed 20 days ago
The camp host is very friendly and the site was very clean, we will definitely being staying there in the future.
Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

Popularity: Quiet

Busiest in August, when about 39% of guest capacity is reserved. Based on 11 years of reservations.

Camp Sites

Nearby Campgrounds