Pine City Campground is a small but popular camping spot in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, across from Lake Mary. Though small, this scenic campground at 8,900 feet sits in a forest of lodgepole pines with views of the nearby peaks and Lake Mary.
The campground has ten campsites suitable for tents and small RVs, though you won’t find hookups. Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker.
Amenities at the campground include potable drinking water and flush toilets. Firewood can be purchased on-site from the camp host. Cell phone reception is generally poor.
Every campsite sits across the road from Lake Mary, the biggest and most popular lake in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.
The prime location gives Pine City Campground an edge over nearby campgrounds, offering easy lake access and great views.
With all campsites on a first-come, first-served basis and no reservations accepted, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or consider visiting during the off-season. The campground fills up quickly, especially during peak season.
The campground typically operates from June 15 to September 30, weather permitting, and opens around the same time as Lake Mary Road, which is cleared of snow as early as May or as late as July.
Lake Mary is the most popular lake in the Mammoth Lakes Basin for fishing, especially for rainbow trout.
Two marinas, Pokonobe Lodge and Marina and Lake Mary Marina, offer rentals for pontoon boats, motorboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. Both marinas have general stores with fishing supplies, including tackle and bait.
Beyond fishing, outdoor enthusiasts will find many activities, including hiking and biking. Numerous nearby trails range from easy to strenuous, with some leading to beautiful backcountry lakes.
Nearby campgrounds include Lake Mary Campground, Coldwater Campground, Lake George Campground, and Twin Lakes Campground.
Fees
| Season Dates / Year | Site Type | Nightly/Daily Rates |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Campsite | $34.00 / night |
Reservations are not accepted.
Season Dates
Seasonal access depends on weather and road conditions. Exact 2026–2027 opening and closing dates are not published on the current Forest Service campground page. Check before travel.
Directions
From US 395, take CA 203 west through Mammoth Lakes. At Minaret Road, continue straight onto Lake Mary Road and drive approximately 3.6 miles. Turn left onto Around Lake Mary Road. Pine City Campground is on the left after approximately 0.1 mile.
GPS Coordinates: 37.604374,-119.000276
Map
Nearby Campgrounds
