The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
BLM lands are those controlled by the Bureau of Land Management. In the state of California, there are 15.8 million acres of public land under the BLM. Bureau of Land Management free camping is open to everyone, making it an excellent option for budget-friendly travelers. However, campfires are only allowed in designated areas, and you must obtain a permit if you want to bring your dog along. Additionally, all campsites must be at least 100 feet from any water source. You can find BLM sites by searching “BLM camping near me.”
Granite Mountain in California is a popular spot for BLM camping. The area offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the volcanic Mono Craters, and the Adobe Valley. You can also find several dispersed campsites along the roads leading to the mountain. Yosemite National Park is less than 60 miles away, making it a great day trip from your campsite. You can go hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding.
The trail begins and ends at the Granite Mountain trailhead. The first two miles of the trail are mostly uphill, but the views are worth the effort. You’ll see wildflowers, manzanita trees, and granite rock formations. The trail then levels out and loops around the mountain, giving you different perspectives of the area.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located 18 miles from Granite Mountain is the Panum Crater. This trail is a moderate hike with volcanic cinder cones, lava fields, and incredible views of the Long Valley Caldera depression.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This is a short trail leading to the 9,000-foot Sagehen Peak.
Length: 0.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
Mono Lake has no fish because of the high alkaline content of the water. Visitors can go kayaking or canoeing in the lake. Nearby Grant Lake and June Lake are good spots if you want to do some good fishing.
At 9,000 feet, Granite Mountain has many perfect climbing spots. The first and most popular spot is called The Rabbit Hole, which is excellent for beginners. The second spot, which is recommended for intermediate to advanced climbers, is called The Talus Caves. And lastly, there is the bouldering field which is suitable for all levels of climbers. The 8,874-foot Cowtrack Mountain is also good for rock climbing.
Granite Mountain is home to many different animals. You might see mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, cougars, squirrels, chipmunks, black bears, rabbits, and groundhogs. There are also many birds in the area, such as eagles, hawks, owls, and vultures. The spots where you are most likely to see wildlife are Lower Rock Creek Trail and the Sherwin Meadows.
There are three designated picnicking spots at Granite Mountain. All three have grills and covered shelters. The first picnicking spot is located near the main trailhead. It has a large shelter that can accommodate up to 50 people. The second picnicking spot is near the overlook and can accommodate up to 25 people. The third picnicking spot is located near the BLM campground. It has a large shelter that can accommodate up to 100 people. There are also several picnic tables scattered throughout the area.
Several stables in the area offer guided tours and plenty of open space for those who want to explore independently. Horseback riding is a great way to see the scenery, and it can also be a good workout. Additionally, it is essential to remember that horses significantly impact the environment. When riding, stay on designated trails and take all necessary precautions to protect the natural habitat.
BLM RV camping near Granite Mountain is possible. Golden Pine RV Park is the closest RV park to the mountain. It is about 20 miles away, and it has full hookups. Mono Vista and June Lake RV Park are some other options. They are about 30 miles away from the mountain but do not have full hookups. You can find dump stations at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center and the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center.
BLM also offers free camping near Granite Mountain. There are no hookups or showers, but a vault toilet is at the trailhead. Camping is allowed for up to 14 days in a single month. Dispersed camping is also an option.
BLM camping in the Granite Mountain Wilderness is a great way to experience all the area offers. The mountain is located in a remote area and cell service is limited. Be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Pack plenty of food, water, and a first aid kit. The heat can be intense during the day, so it is vital to start early and hike at a steady pace. Remember to stay on designated trails and respect the wildlife.
The closest city to Granite Mountain is Bishop, California. It is about an hour away, and it has all the amenities you will need for your trip. Vehicle restrictions are in place to protect the natural habitat. Only high-clearance vehicles are allowed on the roads leading to the trailheads. Before heading out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When you are finished enjoying the Bureau of Land Management campgrounds near Granite Mountain, leave the area as clean as you found it. This means packing out all of your trash, including food scraps. It is also essential to bury human waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet away from any water source. Remember never to build a fire unless it is in a designated area. When you are finished, make sure it is wholly extinguished.
To reach Granite Mountain, take US Highway 395 to State Route 168. Turn west onto State Route 168 and drive for about 15 miles. The turnoff for the trailhead will be on the right. The trailhead is located about two miles from the parking area. Granite Mountain is located after the Inyo National Forest. It is about 30 miles east of Fresno, California.
Ready to visit Granite Mountain? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, enjoying a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
