Big Bend Campground is a small campground located along Lee Vining Creek in the Inyo National Forest at an elevation of 7,800 feet. The campground is set in a pine and aspen forest along Lee Vining Creek, providing shade and a peaceful atmosphere.
The campground, located in Lee Vining, is conveniently situated near the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking nearby camping options.
Big Bend Campground is accessible via a well-graded dirt road off Tioga Pass Road (Highway 120), about 3.5 miles west of Highway 395.
Due to its location between Highway 395 and Yosemite National Park and proximity to one of the area’s most popular fishing creeks, the campground experiences high demand, especially during peak seasons.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and offers 17 campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, grill, and a bear-proof food locker. Stays are limited to 14 days, and cell service is limited.
Campsites can accommodate small and medium-sized trailers or RVs up to 30 feet long. Drinking water is available throughout the campground. There is also a central vault toilet. Firewood is available for purchase from the camp host.
The campground operates seasonally, depending on the opening of Highway 120, which closes with the first snowfall and reopens in the spring or summer, typically between May and July. The campground usually opens around the same time as Tioga Pass.
Nearby campgrounds include Aspen Campground, Moraine Campground, and Lower Lee Vining Campground.
Fees
$24 per night
Reservations are not accepted.
Season / Opening and Closing Dates
July through October
Video
Directions
From Highway 395 in Lee Vining, turn west on State Route 120 (Tioga Pass). Continue on State Route 120 (Tioga Pass) for 3.4 miles to reach Poole Power Plant Road. Turn left on Poole Power Plant Road then immediately turn right. Continue on Poole Power Plant Road for 2.5 miles to reach the turn off for the campground on the left.
GPS Coordinates: 37.94497,-119.20149
Map
Nearby Campgrounds
| Campground Name | Miles Away |
|---|---|
| Aspen Campground | 0.92 miles |
| Ellery Camp Campground | 2.42 miles |
| Moraine Campground | 2.49 miles |
| Junction Campground | 2.74 miles |
| Lower Lee Vining Campground | 2.85 miles |
| Tioga Lake Campground | 3.17 miles |
| Sawmill Walk-in Campground | 3.84 miles |
| Saddlebag Campground | 4.02 miles |
| Lundy Canyon Campground | 6.19 miles |
Nearby Fishing
| Name | Miles Away |
|---|---|
| Ellery Lake | 2.05 miles |
| Lee Vining Creek | 2.96 miles |
| Tioga Lake | 3.12 miles |
| Saddlebag Lake | 4.15 miles |
| Lundy Lake | 6.06 miles |
| Mill Creek | 6.66 miles |
| Virginia Creek | 7.79 miles |
| Virginia Lakes | 7.79 miles |
| Grant Lake | 8.58 miles |