Camping at Whitney Portal Campground

Location and Basic Info

Whitney Portal Campground is located within the Inyo National Forest at the base of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. It is situated near the town of Lone Pine, California, and serves as the main gateway to Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States.

• Address: Whitney Portal Rd Lone Pine, CA 93545
• GPS Coordinates: Approximately 36.586, -118.240

Camping Facilities

Whitney Portal Campground is well-equipped for campers, offering a range of facilities such as:

• Tent and RV sites (note: there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs)
• Food storage lockers to protect against bears and other wildlife
• Flush toilets
• Potable water
• Picnic tables and fire rings at each site
• The campground does not offer showers, but they're available in the nearby town of Lone Pine.

Campsite Reservations

Reservations for camping at Whitney Portal are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as it is a popular destination. You can make reservations through Recreation.gov. Advance reservations are usually available six months in advance.

• Reservation Period: Generally from May through October, depending on weather conditions.
• Walk-up Availability: Some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hiking and Recreation

Whitney Portal is the primary trailhead for hikers attempting to summit Mount Whitney. For those not seeking to complete the trek to Mount Whitney, there are other recreational activities, including:

• Day hiking on nearby trails
• Fishing in the nearby stream
• Wildlife watching
• Enjoying scenic views of the Sierra Nevadas

Permits and Regulations

• Wilderness Permits: For those planning to hike up Mount Whitney or explore the backcountry, wilderness permits are mandatory and can also be acquired through Recreation.gov.
• Fire Restrictions: Check current fire restrictions before visiting since they can change based on conditions. Firewood collection within the campground is prohibited.
• Food Storage: Proper food storage is compulsory due to bears in the area. Use the bear-proof lockers provided at each campsite.

Access and Road Conditions

The road to Whitney Portal is steep, narrow, and winding. It may not be suitable for larger vehicles or trailers. In winter, the road can be closed due to snow.

• Seasonal Accessibility: The campground is typically open from late spring through fall, with access depending on weather and snow conditions.
• Winter Closure: During winter, the road to Whitney Portal might be closed due to snow, thereby closing the campground.

Nearby Attractions and Services

• The quaint town of Lone Pine offers gas, food, and lodging.
• The Eastern Sierra InterAgency Visitor Center: Obtain permits and local information.
• Alabama Hills: Famous for its scenic rock formations and filming locations.
• Manzanar National Historic Site: A site dedicated to understanding the history of the Japanese American internment during World War II.

Contact Information

For more information about Whitney Portal Campground and current conditions, contact the Inyo National Forest:

• Phone: (760) 876-6200
• Website: Inyo National Forest Camping

Remember to respect nature and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment while enjoying your camping experience.