The Devils Postpile National Monument is a dramatic spot in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The monument is located off the back side of Mammoth Mountain in Madera County, California. Its unique basalt rock formations are a mind-bending sight to see.
When and how to visit
The Devils Postpile area normally operates seasonally, roughly from June through October. During that operating season, the monument and the Reds Meadow Valley are generally open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. (It is currently closed for the season.)
Early- or late-season weather can force temporary closures, so visitors are urged to check the National Park Service page before a visit.
During the busy months, private-vehicle access to the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile area is restricted. Visitors are expected to use the seasonal shuttle system that runs from Mammoth Lakes into the Reds Meadow valley. (I like the shuttle option because it’s so convenient.)
What to expect
From the ranger station, you can take a well-maintained, mostly level trail to the base of the Postpile. This lower route is rated as easy and is wheelchair-accessible with only a slight elevation change. (It’s a little less than one mile round trip.)
If you want more vantage points, add the short uphill loop that goes over the top of the Postpile. It’s a few extra minutes and adds some incline, but gives you a different view of the formation.
Park services
The Devils Postpile National Monument has limited day-use facilities and a ranger station with maps and advice. The small Reds Meadow valley has a general store and seasonal services for visitors.
The monument’s tiny campground has been closed for reconstruction and remains unavailable. Instead, Forest Service campgrounds and nearby private RV parks handle most overnight visitors.
Three RV-friendly campgrounds nearby
• Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground (open 365 days) is located at the entrance to Mammoth Lakes. This year-round RV park offers full and partial hookups and easy access to town amenities. It’s a convenient base for RVers who want paved roads, services, and short drives to the shuttle pickup area.
• Reds Meadow Campground (currently closed) is tucked into the same valley as Devils Postpile. This shady, first-come, first-served campground sits within walking distance of trails and the shuttle stops. It’s rustic and seasonal but gives immediate access to the meadow, river, and trailheads. Sites can accommodate small RVs, but hookups are not guaranteed.
• Convict Lake Campground is a scenic, well-equipped Forest Service campground south of Mammoth. It offers many flat sites that suit RVs. Note that there are no full hookups for most sites. However, there are potable water sources, restrooms, and a nearby dump station. Convict Lake is a good choice if you want lakeside peace, easy fishing, and a short drive to hot springs, trails, and Mammoth services. Peak season is April 24 to October 24, 2026.
Other nearby attractions
The Devils Postpile National Monument isn’t the only draw to this area. While you’re visiting, take advantage of these additional attractions.
• Rainbow Falls is a striking 101-foot waterfall on the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. Many folks visit the falls in the same trip as the Postpile. Visitors who arrive midday on a sunny day can witness mist rainbows at the falls.
• Hot Creek Geological Site and Hot Creek Fish Hatchery feature interesting geothermal sights and a local fish hatchery.
• Mono Lake and Lee Vining are about a 30-minute drive north of Mammoth. Mono Lake offers surreal views of limestone towers and has shoreline access for fishing. There are visitor amenities in Lee Vining.
• Bodie State Historic Park and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest are also doable day trips from Mammoth.
Wineries, shopping, and more
Mammoth Lakes hosts tasting rooms, wine and beer events, and a compact downtown of shops, galleries, gear outfitters, and restaurants. You can use Mammoth as your service hub for groceries, dining, and last-minute supplies. Then head out for your day of adventure.
More to do
The Devils Postpile area offers even more to do. Consider wildlife viewing, birding, horseback riding, fishing, and mountain biking.
In winter, the Mammoth Lakes area offers skiing and snowboarding. There’s also snowmobiling and cross-country snowshoeing. Check out this NPS website for more information.
Quick planning checklist
- Bring water, sun protection (the high elevation sun is strong), and layers. (The weather can swing from warm sun to chilly wind quickly.)
- Confirm seasonal road and shuttle status on the NPS Devils Postpile pages before you go.
- Pack additional layers and water, and wear sturdy footwear for short walks.
- Reserve an RV site in Mammoth for guaranteed hookups during peak season and consider Reds Meadow for a rustic, close-in experience if you’re comfortable with first-come camping.
- Bring a camera. The Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls are uniquely photogenic at any time of day.
Have you visited this beautiful area? Tell us about it using the comments below.
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RVT1247
My dad grew up in Denver and loved to fly fish. During WW2 there was rationed gas and tires, but tires were mostly unavailable. After VE Day May 8, 1945, followed by VJ Day August 15, 1945, rationing and restricted supplies started returning. During the summer of 1946 dad loaded the 1939 Buick with a set of new tires with mom, my 6-year-old sister and 12-year-old me. We drove from Burbank, California to Reds Meadows where we camped in tents. Not many people were camped there. No bus, no reservations and no need. A little shop sold fishing supplies and limited groceries. A dirt trail led to Devil’s Postpile and Rainbow falls. We fished productively in a stream through the meadow and falls.