Alabama Hills Camping Guide
Nestled at the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada, the Alabama Hills are known for their stunning landscape of eroded, rounded rock formations juxtaposed against the backdrop of jagged peaks.
This semi-primitive camping area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers a range of activities including rock climbing, mountain biking, photography, exploring natural arches, and viewing spring wildflowers. Dispersed camping at designated sites is available on a first-come, first-serve basis and requires a free permit.
Camping Details
| Site types | Dispersed, primitive |
| Amenities | Porta potties, existing fire rings |
| Permit required | Yes (free, valid for one year); Website |
| Reservations | No, first come, first serve |
| Max stay length | 7 days per 28-day period; 14 days/year total |
| Campfire regulations | California campfire permit required |
| Restroom facilities | Porta potties at Mobius Arch Trailhead, Shark Fin area |
| Location | Near Lone Pine, CA |
| General GPS Coordinates | 36.602337, -118.116155 |
| Season | Year-round (but can be hot in summer) |
| Info Number | 760-872-5000 |
Getting to the Alabama Hills
Take Hwy 395 to Lone Pine. Turn west at the stoplight onto Whitney Portal Road, drive 2.5 miles to Movie Road, turn right. The Movie Flat area, which will be on your right, is the most popular for dispersed camping, but there are other areas as well. See the map below.
Camping Overview
The Alabama Hills offer a unique camping experience, drawing visitors with their blend of dramatic rock formations and sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada. The camping area consists of designated dispersed sites.
Permits are now required for camping and are available online or at the Eastern Sierra Visitor Center in Lone Pine. This permit serves as an acknowledgment of the camping rules aimed at preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Visitors to the Alabama Hills can enjoy a range of activities. The region is popular for touring old film sites, as the area has served as the backdrop for numerous Westerns and adventure films.
Rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and photography are also popular activities. The Mobius Arch Trail is a must-visit, providing an iconic view of Mount Whitney framed by the natural arch.
When camping, visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles, use existing fire rings, and respect campfire regulations. Campfires require a free California campfire permit, which can be obtained online. Fires should be extinguished with water and not left to smolder.
Facilities in the area include six porta potties located at key points such as the Mobius Arch trailhead and the Shark Fin parking area. For all other waste needs, visitors must use portable waste systems. The maximum allowed stay is seven days within a 28-day period, and no more than 14 days in a calendar year within the BLM’s Bishop Field Office boundaries.
If you are looking for a more developed campground, Tuttle Creek Campground is nearby.
Other Activities in Alabama Hills
If you are looking for other things to do in the Alabama Hills Area, check out the guides below:
