Tadpole Campground Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tadpole Campground is located in the Inyo National Forest in California and offers stunning views of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains.


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Summary

The area is known for its picturesque lakes, hiking trails, and nearby hot springs. Visitors can explore the nearby ancient bristlecone pine forest, which is home to some of the oldest trees in the world.

The campground features 21 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. There are vault toilets available on site, but no running water. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot.

An interesting fact about the area is that it was once a popular spot for gold mining in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can still see the remnants of the historic mining operations scattered throughout the area.

The best time to visit Tadpole Campground is in the summer months when temperatures are warm and the area is free from snow. Average temperatures during this time range from the mid-60s during the day to low 40s at night.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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