Mammoth Lakes, or better known as just Mammoth, is a world famous year round resort town and destination located at 7,880 feet. The town is most known for the volcanic dome Mammoth Mountain which towers over the city. Mammoth Mountain is home to a world class winter resort and ski area.
In 1877, Mineral Hill, just south of the present day town, was staked by four prospectors. A year later, a gold rush was started when Mammoth Mining Company was organized to the mine. Over 1,500 people made their way to the area, known then as Mammoth City, hoping to strike it rich. Within just a few years, the company shut down. The population of Mammoth City dropped to less than ten people as people left the boom town as quick as they arrived.
A new town, based in the business of logging and tourism, was established on the banks of Mammoth Creek in the early 20th century. In 1923, the first Mammoth Lakes post office opened.
By the 1950s, about 200 residents lived in the area year round. By 1960, this number reached 1,000. Many cabins and faux Swiss chalets starting popping up in the nearby forests all around CA 203, the main road into the town.
The total area of Mammoth Lakes is 25.3 square miles (66 square kilometers). As of 2010, the population was 8,234. The town is the only incorporated community in the county of Mono.
Things to do in Mammoth Lakes
Camping
Mammoth Lakes offers numerous campgrounds, from those in town to scenic spots in the Mammoth Lakes Basin and Reds Meadow. Most sites accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers. Some campgrounds are reservable, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Popular campgrounds include New Shady Rest Campground, Old Shady Rest Campground, Lake Mary Campground, and Coldwater Campground.
Whether you’re looking for a campground within walking distance of restaurants, with views of lakes stocked with trout, or a more secluded spot with privacy and no cell service, you’ll find it in Mammoth Lakes.
Learn more about camping in the Mammoth Lakes area
Fishing
In the summer, anglers from all over visit Mammoth Lakes to fish in its world-class lakes and streams. Whether you’re looking for a driveable alpine lake stocked with trout or a remote backcountry lake, you’ll find it here.
The most popular place to fish in Mammoth Lakes is the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Here, you’ll find several easily accessible lakes, including Lake Mary, Lake George, and Lake Mamie. These lakes are excellent for fishing, especially for rainbow trout.
Those who venture a little further will find additional fishing opportunities, including the San Joaquin River, which runs through Reds Meadow, and several backcountry high-elevation lakes.