The best camping near Devils Postpile National Monument

About an hour's drive south of Yosemite National Park in California's Inyo National Forest, Devils Postpile is a protected area that preserves the columnar basalt formation from which it gets its name, as well as the 101-foot Rainbow Falls, which tumble into the San Joaquin River. The park is popular among backpackers, as it’s just off the John Muir Trail, offering easy access to the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Although Devils Postpile Campground has been closed indefinitely since 2016, the surrounding valley offers plenty of other tent camping options, notably Upper Soda Springs, Pumice Flat, Minaret Falls, and Reds Meadow, all of which are bookable through the National Park Service (NPS).

The only way to get to the monument is via Reds Meadow Road, which closes annually due to snowfall, usually in late October. The road reopens again in spring when conditions improve, and while it's occasionally accessible by the end of May, it generally doesn't open until mid- to late-June. Because of the monument’s short season and limited camping, it tends to stay pretty busy all summer long. Consider visiting after Labor Day for fewer crowds.

• Cars are not allowed at Devils Postpile or the Reds Meadow Valley, with a few exceptions. These include people with ADA placards or plates, those arriving after 7pm or before 7am, those staying at Reds Meadow Resort, and campers. All other visitors must take a mandatory shuttle bus from Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center.
• Pets are allowed in the day-use area, on trails, and in the campground, as well as on the shuttle bus, provided they wear muzzles (available for purchase in Mammoth Lakes).