Mammoth Mountain, CA
The Vibe
Endless camping spots and dirt road pull-offs let even the most blacktop-bound vehicles camp just 10 minutes down the road from the Mammoth Mountain lifts. Spring slush slashin, and apres party vibes are easy to come by when Mammoth Scenic Loop is popping off. The big catch/question? Is Mammoth Scenic Loop open?
The Catch
Boondocking/car camping near Mammoth Mountain during peak winter can get tricky, the town of Mammoth Lakes prohibits sleeping in your vehicle in almost all areas that would be ideal. During the spring, the camping situation becomes a totally different story.
Mammoth scenic loop is one of Mammoth Lakes’ lowest priority roads for plowing/snow removal, and after a storm the loop can stay closed for weeks. During high snowfall seasons, like the mythical 2023 season, Mammoth Scenic Loop basically never opens. Making boondocking for free near the lifts nigh impossible.
But - Spring and Summer skiing at Mammoth is a ski bums dream, allowing totally free, easily accessible camping just minutes from the lift. If you’re lucky like we were you will also get a sneaky April powder day. Late season powder days are actually pretty common at Mammoth because of the elevation and gives everyone a little pep in their step.