July 4th in Mammoth!

This is easily one of our favorite places on earth! If you read our blog, then you’ve already read our Reds Meadow post! Please refer to that blog to refresh your memory on all there is to do at Reds Meadow Campground. We will be sharing some updated pictures of the area on this post and showing you some new spots in Mammoth and its surrounding cities to check out.

~ Soda Springs – Just beyond the Devils Postpile National Monument is an area filled with a breathtaking meadow and soda springs. The San Joaquin River flows through this area creating spa like sounds, pristine fishing spots, and enough water to create a lush habitat for various plant life and fauna. What are soda springs? They are areas within a body of water that naturally form carbonated water. Created by the pressure beneath the ground from volcanic activity many years ago, these bubbling pools are quite the site to see. Most soda springs are safe to drink right out of, but we wouldn’t recommend trying! We do not want to be responsible for catching Giardia!

**This is where you will find the soda springs! See yellow arrow.**

~ Twin Lakes – Sitting at an elevation of 8,600 feet, the connected lakes at the base of Mammoth Mountain are remarkable. There are bridges you can cross over, waterfalls to see, and a plethora of campsites to stay at. These lakes are the lowest in all of the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Here you can soak in all the views…the lava bluffs as well as the Inyo Forest. There isn’t much more to say other than go here. You will not regret it!

~ Busy Beez General Store – Located on Minaret Road, this cute little store is just like an olden day general store. Filled with market goods, alcohol, necessities, gourmet luxuries, and even souvenirs. This delightful little spot is a must go.

~ Convict Lake – Just outside of Mammoth in Mono County, lies Convict Lake. It is in the Sherwin Range of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and just a hop, skip, and a jump off of the 395 Highway. This place is known for three things: convicts (yes, felons), turquoise waters, and trout fishing. Originally carved out by glaciers, this lake has quite the history. In 1871, 29 prisoners consisting of murderers, horse thieves, and train robbers, escaped the Nevada State Prison, and came to this lake…hence the name, Convict Lake. Additionally, in 1990, a group of teenage juvenile delinquents fell through the ice and drowned in the area. Although there is dark history, this lake is absolutely stunning and worth a visit. Rent a boat, stay in one of their onsite cabins, or pitch a tent and enjoy the frequent wildlife that comes through. If you’re a criminal, you might want to skip this stop. The area seems to believe in Karma!

~ Mountain Rambler Brewery – This small restaurant/tap house is located in Bishop, and is the perfect place to stop on the way to/from Mammoth. Stretch your legs and enjoy an ice cold ale.

Now that we got the new spots out of the way see our pics from Red’s Meadow Campground, Sotcher Lake, Devil’s Postpile, and Rainbow Falls. These views never get old and somehow look brand new each and every time!

~RM Campground