About PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP
Overview Pumice Flat Group Camp is located in the Red's Meadows and Devils Postpile section of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, just west of the full-service community of Mammoth Lakes, California. This group camping facility provides access to some of the most spectacular wilderness in the Sierras and many outdoor activities such as horseback riding, fishing, hiking, photography and geologic study of the dramatic landscape. Devils Postpile National Monument and the famous Ansel Adams Wilderness are nearby for campers to explore.Recreation This campground is a great base camp for hiking the area's many trails. Within a few miles, campers will find trailheads to the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trails. There is a mandatory shuttle that takes hikers to nearby trailheads. Fishing enthusiasts can try for trout in the lake or the North Fork of the San Joaquin River.Facilities The group camp is within the main Pumice Flat Campground, which offers first-come, first-served individual sites. The group area consists of four group campsites, spaced well apart and located fairly close to either creek. Picnic tables, campfire rings and food storage lockers are provided. The road to the facility is narrow, single-lane and only accessible in summer.Natural Features The campground sits in a lodgepole pine forest surrounded by high mountain peaks and adjacent to two creeks. The elevation is 7,700 feet. The area boasts some very interesting geologic features, including numerous lakes and rugged mountains, which lend themselves well to photography. Many species of wildlife call the mountains home, such as black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika, fish and birds. Nearby Attractions The Red's Meadow Pack Station and Resort are about 2.5 miles away at the end of Red's Meadow Road. A general store and cafe are available. The trailhead for Rainbow Falls also begins here. The area is very close to Devils Postpile National Monument and the Ans
How to Get There
From U.S. Highway 395, take Highway 203 west through the town of Mammoth Lakes. At the second traffic light, turn right onto Minaret (203). Pass the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and Minaret Vista. Continue a few miles on Red's Meadow Road to the campground turnoff.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP
Heading to PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP?
No central reservation system listed for PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231957) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP?
From U.S. Highway 395, take Highway 203 west through the town of Mammoth Lakes. At the second traffic light, turn right onto Minaret (203). Pass the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and Minaret Vista. Continue a few miles on Red's Meadow Road to the campground turnoff.
How do I contact PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP?
You can reach the park at email: clm@clm-services.com.
References & Official Resources