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Inyo Mountains Wilderness

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Inyo Mountains Wilderness is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Inyo National Forest Service. The area is mostly a massive, isolated desert range that extends to the north and south of the Inyo Mountains. A popular high point in Inyo Mountains is Keynot Peak, at 11,000 feet, providing a view of the Owens Valley on the west and Saline Valley on the east. The eastern side is a rough area and home to eight canyons that are significant climbing areas. Another high area is the New York Butte summit, which has highly challenging trails.

Located 81.2 miles northwest of Death Valley National Park and 291.3 miles northeast of Sequoia National Park, the area is inhabited by sagebrush, creosote, and shadscale scrubs. Also, riparian habitat is found in the moist parts of the canyons. There are pinion-juniper woodlands in some sections, especially on the slopes of the Inyo Mountains. Visitors can enjoy mountain biking, hunting, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, photography, and auto touring.

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Swansea-Cerro Gordo OHV Route

This loop trail near Lone Pine, CA is popular for off-road driving with sharp bends in some sections. Shrubs surround the dusty trail on the slopes. Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash. 

Length: 34.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Baxter Pass Trail

The Baxter Pass Trail is a strenuous, rocky out-and-back route that begins near Independence, CA. It is typically used for hiking and backpacking, with wildflowers and bugs along the trail. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. It is also possible to come across wildlife while hiking on this trail. 

Length: 12.6 miles

Intensity: Hard

Saline Valley Road OHV Trail

This trail begins near Big Pine, CA and is a point-to-point route at a 7,200 feet elevation. Visitors get to enjoy scenic driving and off-road driving. There is no shade on this trail. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash in some areas. 

Length: 77.8 miles

Intensity: Easy

Kearsarge Pass Trail to Kearsarge Lakes

This is also an out-and-back trail near Independence, CA, with a remarkable view of the Kearsarge Lakes. At a 3,400 feet elevation, the course is famous for backpacking, hiking, and birdwatching. The best time to visit is from April to October. 

Length: 11.9 miles

Intensity: Hard

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

The closest fishing spots are in Inyo National Forest. If you can make it to Convict Lake, you will manage to fish and enjoy a boat ride. The typical fish species are rainbow and brown trout. Another fishing spot is the Lake Mary Fishing Site, home to brown, brook, and rainbow trout.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

The Inyo Mountains are home to wildlife like the bighorn sheep, Inyo Mountains slender salamander, and Lyell salamander. Head to the Inyo National Forest for a chance to see more animal species. There are western toads, tree frogs, Panamint alligator lizards, desert-colored lizards, and the western terrestrial garter snake. Birds include Lewis's woodpecker, northern flicker, red-breasted sapsucker, chukar, and band-tailed pigeons.

Horseback RidingHorseback Riding

Horseback riding is permitted throughout the Inyo Mountain Wilderness area, but a preferred location is the Mammoth Ranger District. Popular horseback riding trails in this area are the Convict Lake Loop Trailhead and Duck Pass Trail. Visitors enjoy the view of Convict Lake on this partially paved trail. Wildflowers and wildlife are also common. It is possible to see the Mammoth Lakes from this trail. Duck Pass Trail leads you into a forested hillside behind the Coldwater campground with options, including the Emerald Lake trails.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

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Search BLM camping near me to get RV camping recommendations. Popular Bureau of Land Management campgrounds near Inyo Mountain Wilderness are Coldwater, Convict Lake, and Lake George campground. Coldwater campground offers 77 campsites each at $26 per night for access to amenities like fire rings, water, bear boxes, and flush toilets; there are no RV hookups. Campers are advised to be cautious as this is an active bear area. Convict Lake campground is about 1/4 mile from Convict Lake. It has 85 campsites you can reserve online for $29 per night per sight. Dogs are allowed if they are on a leash. Since it is also an active bear area, bear boxes are provided, and other amenities include drinking water and restrooms with flush toilets. Another recommendable area is Lake George campground. It is a 10-minute drive from Mammoth Lakes and offers 15 campsites. No reservations exist, but visitors are expected to register at the campground. It costs $26 per night per site, and amenities are potable water and flush toilets. There are no RV hookups.

Free Camping Campground Icon

Bureau of Land Management free camping is possible on public lands in California. Check out Owens River-Hot Creek Road, a 17-mile one-way road north of Mammoth Lakes. The area is near Hot Creek Fish Hatchery and Hot Creek Geological Site. Another free camping area is Bald Mountain Road, which is a 23-mile round trip loop offering excellent mountain and valley views. You may need a California Campfire Permit to light an open flame in this area.

RV Rentals Near Inyo Mountains Wilderness Plan your next adventure

Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Inyo Mountains Wilderness BLM trip

BLM RV camping at or near Inyo Mountains Wilderness requires proper planning and knowledge of the area. If your campsite is in Inyo National Forest, identify active bear areas so that you can take necessary precautions and pack bear spray. Also, most campgrounds are close to lakes, creeks, or springs, so you might find mosquitoes. Bring an insect repellant to protect you from mosquito bites. Other essentials are a pocketknife, hiking boots, camp shoes, a first-aid kit, flashlight, and a map or guidebook. Before leaving, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

As you camp on BLM land, it's bests to know that the area's quality depends on how well you can care for the environment. There are animals and vegetation that call the area home, and any misuse could negatively impact their existence. Clear out any trash in the area and dispose of it in the proper place. Carelessly disposed of food leftovers could attract wildlife like bears, which could threaten your safety. Follow the campsite's food and trash disposal recommendations to keep the area clean and free from bears. You can check out the Leave No Trace principles to know more about camping on public land.

Leave No Trace
Location

Inyo Mountains Wilderness Location

The closest town to Inyo Mountains Wilderness is Independence, CA, along Highway 395. From Independence, drive 0.4 miles south and take a left towards the Mazourka Canyon Road. Maintain this road for about 8.9 miles and make a slight left onto Circus Road/Mazourka. Continue north for another 12.2 miles, then turn right for a mile. You should see a dirt road directly leading to the Inyo Mountain Wilderness. 

Ready to visit Inyo Mountains Wilderness? 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.

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