Whitney Portal Campground – Inyo National Forest, Eastern Sierra

Whitney Portal Campground is a stunning high-elevation campground located at the base of Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States. Set at roughly 8,000 feet in the eastern Sierra Nevada above the town of Lone Pine, this campground offers dramatic scenery, cool mountain air, and immediate access to one of the most iconic trailheads in the country. With granite walls towering above, cascading waterfalls, and a thick pine forest surrounding the campsites, Whitney Portal delivers an unforgettable alpine camping experience.

Location & Access

The campground is located about 13 miles west of Lone Pine, California, along Whitney Portal Road—a scenic but steep and winding drive that climbs rapidly from the Owens Valley floor. The road gains more than 4,000 feet in elevation before reaching the portal area, offering sweeping views of the jagged Sierra crest along the way. Its proximity to Lone Pine makes the campground convenient for stocking up on supplies, grabbing a meal at the Whitney Portal Store, or enjoying the views of the Alabama Hills below.

Campground Overview

Whitney Portal Campground features a mix of tent and small RV sites tucked among boulders, tall pines, and the rushing waters of Lone Pine Creek. The campground typically offers around 40 sites, many of which feel secluded due to the rugged terrain. Sites near the creek provide the calming sound of flowing water, while upper sites offer views of the towering granite walls surrounding the portal. Because of its elevation and forested setting, the campground stays cooler than the valley below, making it a welcome escape during summer months.

Whitney Portal Campground is also one of the most sought-after basecamps for hikers attempting Mount Whitney via the Main Whitney Trail. Many visitors stay here the night before their climb to acclimate to the altitude and get an early start on the summit attempt. Even if you’re not summiting, the area offers excellent day hiking, photography, and opportunities to explore the dramatic granite landscapes that define California’s high Sierra.

Amenities

Amenities at Whitney Portal Campground are rustic but comfortable. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food locker—essential in this area due to regular bear activity. Potable water and vault toilets are available within the campground. There are no hook-ups or dump stations, so RV campers should plan accordingly. A major convenience is the nearby Whitney Portal Store, which sells meals, snacks, gear, and the famous giant post-hike pancakes. The store is a hub of activity during peak climbing season and adds a unique charm to the area.

Activities & Nearby Recreation

The Main Whitney Trail starts just uphill from the campground, offering access to one of the most renowned hikes in the United States. Whether you’re summiting or exploring sections of the trail, the alpine scenery, granite canyons, and sweeping views make it a highlight of any visit. Closer to camp, the Lone Pine Lake hike provides a rewarding half-day outing with stunning lakeside views.

A short drive back down Whitney Portal Road brings you to the Alabama Hills, a famous landscape of rounded boulders and arches framed by the jagged Sierra Nevada backdrop. The area is popular for photography, rock climbing, scenic drives, and exploring natural arches such as Mobius Arch. Between the high granite peaks above and the unique desert rock formations below, Whitney Portal offers one of the most dramatically diverse camping environments in the region.

Summary

Whitney Portal Campground is a top-tier destination for alpine camping, delivering cool mountain air, dramatic granite scenery, proximity to Lone Pine, and unbeatable access to the Mount Whitney Trail. Whether you’re here to summit Whitney, enjoy day hikes, photograph the Alabama Hills, or simply relax beside the creek, this campground offers a memorable stay in the heart of the eastern Sierra. With its combination of rugged beauty and practical convenience, Whitney Portal is one of California’s most iconic mountain campgrounds.