Camping at Bodie State Historic Park

General Information

Bodie State Historic Park is a genuine California gold-mining ghost town located in Mono County in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range. Visitors can walk down the deserted streets of a town that once had a population of nearly 10,000 people. The park is preserved in a state of "arrested decay," so you see the town as it was after it became a historic park in 1962.

Camping Information

Camping within Bodie State Historic Park is not allowed, as it is a historic park designed to preserve the remains of the ghost town. However, there are other camping options nearby:

• Bridgeport Reservoir RV Park and Marina: A campground with RV sites located about 18 miles from Bodie.
• Twin Lakes: A popular camping destination located about 38 miles from Bodie offering both RV and tent camping sites.
• Bodie Bowl: It's a dispersed camping area near Bodie, not formally part of the park.

Campers should always check for the most current conditions and regulations before heading out as these areas may have specific rules and restrictions.

Nearest Camping Facilities

• Bridgeport Reservoir RV Park and Marina: Offers basic amenities for RV campers.
• Twin Lakes: Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the Twin Lakes area offers campgrounds with facilities for tent and RV camping.
• Dispersed Camping: For those willing to go without facilities, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands surrounding Bodie offers options for dispersed camping.

Rules and Regulations

• Fire Regulations: Due to the dry conditions often present in the area, fire regulations are strict. Always check the current fire restrictions.
• Wildlife: The Eastern Sierra is bear country, so proper food storage is critical.
• Leave No Trace: It is essential to pack out everything you pack in and to leave areas as you found them or better.

Seasonal Access

Bodie State Historic Park is located at a high altitude (8,375 feet), which means that weather can be extreme and unpredictable, especially outside of the summer months. The best time to visit is generally from May to October, when the roads are most likely to be clear.

Access to Bodie

• By Car: The parking lot is open during park hours, and there is a small fee for entry.
• Winter Access: The last 3 miles to Bodie is usually closed during the winter, but visitors can ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile into the park, weather permitting.

Points to Remember

• Preservation: Do not take any artifacts or remove anything from the park.
• Pets: Pets are allowed in the park but must be on a leash at all times.
• Services: There are no services (no food, no water) available within Bodie State Historic Park, so come prepared.

Checking the California State Parks official website or contacting them directly before planning a trip is advisable for the most recent information about Bodie State Historic Park and nearby camping opportunities.