GlobalSpa
27-Mar-2026
From camping, sightseeing and adventuring to fishing and biking, there are endless things to do in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, California.
Just minutes from downtown Mammoth Lakes, the Mammoth Lakes Basin, California, unfolds as a breathtaking alpine escape. Towering pine forests, jagged granite peaks, crystalline lakes, and cascading mountain streams create a setting that feels both wild and wonderfully accessible. Home to more than a dozen lakes, five well-appointed campgrounds, and over 50 miles of designated trails, the Basin offers endless opportunities for fishing, kayaking, hiking, cycling, and picnicking. Among the most well-known lakes are Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Mamie, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake, which together form a picturesque circuit for the ultimate outdoor adventure.
Twin Lakes
The first stop upon entering the Basin, Twin Lakes is easily reached by car, bike, or e-bike via multi-use paths. Framed by volcanic cliffs and dense forest, the two lakes are connected by a narrow channel, with dramatic views of Twin Falls cascading down the cliffside. Visitors can paddle across the water, fish from the marina, or follow the footpath that circles the shoreline. The forest chapel at the twin lakes is also a must-visit. Scenic highlights include the Twin Falls overlook and lava tubes along the eastern shore. Amenities include cabins at the historic Tamarack Lodge, which also offers a marina with fishing boats and kayaks, as well as the nearby Twin Lakes Campground.
Lake Mary
The largest lake in the Lakes Basin, Lake Mary, is widely regarded as its centrepiece. On summer days, it comes alive with activity and offers the most amenities of any lake in the basin. Enjoy boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, or cycling the road that goes around the lake alongside expansive views of the Mammoth Crest and Crystal Crag with big pine trees hugging the perimeter. Lake Mary features two marinas with rentals, campgrounds on each shore, and trail access at Coldwater Campground. The Lake Mary Marina and Store, located on the south shore near Coldwater Campground, offers kayak, paddleboard, and fishing boat rentals. Pokonobe Resort and Marina, located on the north shore, offers pontoon, motorboat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals, plus a general store.
Lake Mamie
Tucked between Lake Mary and Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie is a small hideaway surrounded by forest and tall grasses. Despite its location right off the main road, the area is secluded, offering an intimate natural setting for exploring the basin. Activities include shoreline fishing, kayaking, or walking the short footpath circling the lake, as well as a picturesque view of Twin Falls from the Mamie overlook. Moreover, Wildyrie Lodge & Boat Rental offers rowboat rentals by the hour, day, or week, alongside accommodation in rustic cabins.
Lake George
At nearly 9,000 feet, Lake George is the highest-elevation lake in the Lakes Basin accessible by road and a hot spot for all adventure lovers. Often called the “crown jewel", it sits tucked beneath the dramatic granite buttress of Crystal Crag and sweeping panoramic views. Kayaking, fishing, or launching into high-country hikes like Crystal Lake or Mammoth Crest offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Eastern Sierra. Rock climbing is accessible on the nearby Dyke Wall. It is also one of the best spots in the Lakes Basin for wildlife viewing, including bald eagles, ospreys, and mule deer along the shoreline. Woods Lodge manages a boat launch and fishing boat rentals and offers rustic cabin stays. There is also a small campground, Lake George Campground, that offers a relaxing setting in nature with easy access to the lake.
Horseshoe Lake
A popular spot in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, Horseshoe Lake, located at the end of Lake Mary Road, is widely known for its wide sandy shoreline, relaxed vibe, and family-friendly atmosphere. Swimming, paddleboarding, picnicking, hiking to nearby McLeod Lake, walking the loop trail, or climbing at Horseshoe Slabs are some of the activities suited to all age groups. The lake’s sprawling open shoreline is the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a laid-back beach day.
The area is a local favourite dog play spot, sure to delight dog lovers. Photography is also very popular here, with the areas of tree die-off caused by naturally occurring CO? emissions in the backdrop, giving the landscape a fascinating volcanic character. Ultimately, the Horseshoe Lake Picnic Area offers plenty of tables under the pines along with bathrooms, trailhead maps, and information, all within a short stroll from the picnic area.
When is the Best Time to Visit Mammoth Lakes Basin?
July through September offer the most reliable weather, while June brings wildflowers and October brilliant autumn colours. In winter, the Lakes Basin transforms into a snowy playground with over 19 miles of groomed trails at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center, making the Mammoth Lakes Basin a year-round destination.
Picture credits: Mammoth Lakes Tourism
