Camping in Reds Meadow in California is truly a spectacular outdoors experience. If you are visiting the Golden State, the Reds Meadow Valley is a top travel destination in California, located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, just west of Mammoth Lakes.

Heading over Minaret Vista into the Reds Meadow Valley, views of the Minarets, the Ritter Range, and the San Joaquin River are breathtaking. The valley is lined with granite boulders, pine trees, and vibrant wildflowers, filled with rich history, geology, and prime trout fishing opportunities.

Reds Meadow Campground is the largest and most popular option; however, there are six camping areas within the region, with favorite spots situated near the river and close to Devils Postpile National Monument. Each campground features a unique setting and is conveniently located near the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. Consequently, the valley is a popular location for outdoor recreation, including hiking, sightseeing, and fishing. The nearby Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls are among the most visited landmarks.

Area History

In the 1800s, prospectors journeyed to the region along the French Trail, a route from Fresno to the Mammoth area. Red Sotcher established a farm in the area, growing vegetables to sell to miners. While many sought fortune through gold and silver mining, it was Sotcher who thrived. Reds Meadow and Sotcher Lake were ultimately named in his honor.

Devils Postpile National Monument was established in 1911 to safeguard Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls. The Sierra Club, including letters signed by John Muir, played a pivotal role in supporting the creation of this monument addressed to President Taft.

In 1972, there was a proposal for a trans-sierra road development connecting Oakhurst to Mammoth through Reds Meadow, following the French Trail. However, this plan was halted when California Governor Ronald Reagan, joined by 100 politicians, made a historic horseback ride to Summit Meadow. As a result, the area surrounding Reds Meadow and the Middle Fork San Joaquin was designated as wilderness.

Where to Camp in the Reds Meadow Valley

The Reds Meadow campground is located at the end of the valley and is renowned for its free hot spring showers. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, these showers are accessible to all campers in the valley. Additionally, Reds campground is closest to Sotcher Lake, Reds Meadow Resort, and the Rainbow Falls trailhead. The most popular sites are found in the first loop along the meadow; however, for a more private experience, consider campsites 43-45 in the back loop.

The campground at Pumice Flat is situated riverfront, along the San Joaquin River, offering excellent fishing opportunities with meadows and pools nearby. This campground, being the smallest in the area, only has 16 campsites. Importantly, it also features a group campground across the road that is favored by fishing clubs.

Upper Soda Springs campground is also riverfront and serves as a popular day camping destination for hikers and anglers alike. A bridge crosses the San Joaquin River at the campground’s north end, providing access to the river trail for hiking and fishing.

The sounds of cascading waterfalls enhance the camping experience at Minaret Falls Campground. Close to the campground, Minaret Creek flows over granite rocks and into the San Joaquin River, forming a spectacular waterfall. This campground includes 26 campsites; however, spots are limited and fill quickly due to popularity.

Located within Devils Postpile National Monument, the Devils Postpile Campground is adjacent to the ranger station situated along the San Joaquin River. This area, with its unique basalt column formations at Devils Postpile, is a must-visit for sightseeing enthusiasts in the Mammoth Lakes region. A bridge spans the river just south of the ranger station, facilitating easy access to fishing and hiking trails.

Agnew Meadows campground is the first campground encountered upon descending into the valley. The scenery, with meadows and wildflowers, is particularly stunning during the summer months. Reds Meadow operates a pack station from Agnew Meadows, with numerous trail options available nearby, including group campsites and horse camps.

Reservations and Trip Planning

All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, except for group sites at Agnew Meadows and Pumice Flat, which require reservations. It is advisable to confirm with the Mammoth Lakes Visitors Bureau for road information prior to traveling to the Middle Fork San Joaquin Valley. Notably, Highway 203, leading from Mammoth Mountain’s Main Lodge into Reds Meadow Valley, is open only during the summer months, closing annually on October 31 or the first significant snowfall.