Mammoth Lakes Old Shade Rest Campground
Come and experience 3 full days of 4x4 off-roading and hiking (on our own)
- Travel the backroads to Bodie, a genuine California gold-mining ghost town.
- Take short off-road trips around the Mammoth Lakes area.
- Travel to Sand Canyon or Kavanaugh Ridge
Campground
Old Shady Rest Campground, a US Forest Service area. The campsites are nestled under the canopy of an old-growth Jeffrey pine forest at an elevation of 7,800 feet within walking distance of the community of Mammoth Lakes. Campsites have water and flush toilets. There are no RV hook ups. There is a dump station $10.00 fee. This is an active bear area; bear boxes are provided and must be used (typical bear box size 48" x 30" x 36").
Itinerary ~ tentative*
Thursday, Sept 19th
- Check in time 2:00 pm
- Arrival ~ Meet and Greet
Friday, Sept 20th
- Bodie Ghost Town (27 miles from U.S 395 to Bodie, via OHV Trail) Loop is 43 miles. Generally considered a moderately challenging route.
- Bodie Ghost Town via Hwy 270 (13 miles east of US 395)
- Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve
- June Loop
Saturday, Sept 21st 
- Sand Canyon or Kavanaugh Ridge
- Mammoth Trails Inyo Craters (via short hike)
Sunday, Sept 22nd
- Off road trails around Mammoth Lakes
- Obsidian Dome (onX)
- Minaret Summit Ridge to Deadman Pass (5.5 miles out and back) Refer to All Trails Mammoth Trails
- The Lookout Mountain Loop
Monday, Sept 23rd
Departure ~ Check out at noon. Thanks for coming. Hope you had a great time.
*All activities are subject to change, check campout whiteboard for updates.
Prices: Prices are based upon you being a GO paid member. If not currently a GO member, you will have the option of joining at an additional $25 per person for a one (1) year club membership prior to registration. Each person going must complete a separate registration. You can (here to join)
Payments: This event is limited to GO members. When you register, you'll need to have your credit card (MC, VISA, Discover or Amex.) ready and pay your registration fee within 15 mins.
Refunds: Cancellation for a refund, minus $10, will be allowed only if there is a waitlist and must be received by Monday, Sept 9th. All cancellation requests must be sent to the Trip Leaders ~ Cliff Clue email or Joey Duhon email
What to Bring: Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, potluck item, and the Ten Essentials.
Directions: Old Shady Rest is near Mammoth Lakes, California, approximately 350 miles north of Palm Springs. Refer to Google maps or other travel direction apps.
Take U.S. Highway 395 to State Route 203. Proceed west on 203 for 2.8 miles to Old Sawmill Road. Take a right, go 0.5 mile. The campground entrance is on the left.
Climate: It’s fall in Mammoth Lakes. View weather forecast - Weather
Pets: Are permitted if they are properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash no longer than six feet, and always attended. Please pick up after your pet. $1/night for each pet; you would pay upon arrival.
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader that may affect your ability to participate in this event.
4x4 info
offroad checklist Equipment Requirements: 4-wheel drive high clearance vehicle with transfer case, trail rated tires, a spare tire, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and your trail radio.
Hiking Info
The area has numerous hiking trails. You will need to make your own hiking trails arrangements with other hikers.
What to bring: Ten Essentials (Click Here) water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Layered clothing.
Site assignments and additional details will be in the event reminder email a few days prior to the event.
For additional information contact: Cliff Clue ~ Palm Springs email click here
