Lake George

Lake George is a great jumping off point for a hike to the Upper Lakes Basin. The trails for Crystal, T.J., and Barrett Lakes all leave from the parking lot. Camping, fishing, and paddling are popular activities here as well.

Lake Mamie

This is the smallest lake in the area, and is well known for its trout fishing as it’s regularly stocked with large brown and Alpers trout. Locals say dusk is the best time to fish here.

Lake Mary

At over one mile wide, this is the largest lake in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. The campground located here has 51 sites sprinkled along the shoreline, but beware, it fills up quickly during the summer. This is also the best lake in the area for sailing.

Twin Lakes

This lake is home to the largest campground in the area, with 95 sites available on first-come first-served basis. Twin Falls, a beautiful 287’ waterfall is also a must see here.

Horseshoe Lake

If you’re looking to cool off on a hot summer day, Horseshoe Lake is your destination, as this is the only lake in the basin that allows swimming. If you’re looking for something a little more active, Horseshoe Lake Loop is a popular 7 mile mountain bike trail that runs around the lakes perimeter.

Upper Lakes Basin

These beautiful backcountry lakes offer visitors a measure of solitude not often found so close in to town. Destinations include Crystal, Skeleton, Barrett, McCleod, and TJ Lake, all accessible on relative short hikes.