A free online encyclopedia about campgrounds created and edited by travel writers

sign in or out

Bishop Creek Lodge

Bishop Creek Lodge can be found in Bishop, California, which is located within close proximity of several national forests and parks, including Inyo National Forest, Kings Canyon National Park, and Yosemite National Park. The business offers 11 cabins for reservation year-round. Amenities that can be found on the grounds and are available for all guests include a fish cleaning station, a laundry facility, a general store, a restaurant that serves complimentary breakfast to those with a reservation, public restrooms, and showers. One goal of the property is to provide a place where guests can feel relaxed during their stay, remarks the manager of the property. Bishop Creek Lodge is pet-friendly and allows visitors to smoke in designated areas. Bishop Creek Lodge first opened in 1928, and some of the first cabins built were erected in the 40s and 50s.

About

Bishop Creek Lodge offers a total of 11 individual cabins, each with its own personal accommodations. These cabins range from small places that can house two people to large abodes that are capable of hosting up to eight guests. Regardless of which cabin is reserved, they all come equipped with a bathroom, a kitchen, a refrigerator, and a table. The manager of the business, Olivia, mentions “We have no cell reception up here, but we do offer Wi-Fi for the cabins.” Other basic amenities that can be found at the cottages include an outdoor deck, a barbecue grill, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Olivia notes that Cabin 6 tends to be popular because it is “a little bit more isolated than the other ones.” Another cabin that is typically popular is The Brook Cabin, which Olivia says “has a view of the little waterfall, the mountains, and the canyon.”

Each of the cabins is within walking distance of each other, although they are not clustered closely together in an effort to create a greater sense of privacy for occupants. The lodge features an office, sometimes called the main lodge, where visitors check in. Also located in the main lodge are a general store, a restaurant, and a bar. The general store sells a variety of items, including food, drinks, camping supplies, fishing gear, and souvenirs. The restaurant is generally open for lunch and dinner each day, offering casual dining options such as burgers, chicken wings, pizza, and chicken tenders. For those who are staying in one of the cabins, they can receive a complimentary continental breakfast each morning at the restaurant. A laundry facility is available for patrons, and a fish cleaning station is also on the grounds. People can also find public showers, restrooms, and outdoor picnic tables, which can be used at leisure.

Due to the location of Bishop Creek Lodge, opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, including fishing and hiking, can be found in many nearby areas. Owens River flows east of the property and can provide water-based activities. There are also many mountains in the vicinity, such as North Palisade, Mt. Thompson, and Mt. Emerson, where guests can hike. Olivia also likes to recommend several restaurants to those looking to find local cuisine. The first is the restaurant located on their property. Two others that she lists by name are Whiskey Creek and The Restaurant at Convict Lake.

Culture

Olivia, the manager of Bishop Creek Lodge, mentions that the establishment’s goal is to create a relaxed and nature-focused atmosphere for its patrons. The owners have made an effort to retain the original rustic design of the cabins while still offering a comfortable experience for people who stay in one of the cottages. Olivia mentions that there is an emphasis on allowing visitors to embrace the outdoors and unwind in a laid-back environment. Interaction between the guests and staff is typical. Bishop Creek Lodge’s employees try to maintain the grounds and clean the cabins and outdoor areas. The lodge does not usually host events, although occupants can speak with the manager if they are interested in having a wedding party or graduation dinner at the business.

Bishop Creek Lodge has several policies that visitors should be aware of while staying at the establishment. The lodge is pet-friendly and allows patrons to bring their animals with them when they come to the property. However, housekeeping services are not provided during guests’ stay in an effort to create an experience that feels like camping. Quiet hours are in place from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. to have a more peaceful atmosphere at night. Smoking is prohibited inside the cabins and main lodge, but people are allowed to do it outside in designated areas, including the fire pits.

There have been a variety of visitors that have spent time at Bishop Creek Lodge. Many previous guests have left reviews about their time at the lodge. One person wrote, “Wonderful family-run cafe bar and general store. Friendly and welcoming staff and a warm, open fire.” The typical demographic of patrons that visit the business is outdoor enthusiasts and families. Many people are in the area to spend time fishing, hiking, and other recreational activities.

History

Bishop Creek Lodge has a history that dates back to 1928 when it was established. Initially, it was built as a home for mining purposes, but it eventually transformed into a rental property. Over the years, it has undergone several changes and conversions, gradually being turned into a lodge with a restaurant. The company has had multiple owners, including the Sjoberg, Smith, and Hernandez families, and is currently owned and operated by the Thomas family.

Bishop Creek Lodge was previously owned by the Olsens, who Olivia, the current manager of the property, explains had a significant role in its history. Since the Thomas family purchased the business, they have made a variety of updates to the cabins. According to Olivia, they have made a number of changes, including the addition of employee housing and structural repair in places that required such attention. Currently, there are no immediate plans for significant renovations beyond the general maintenance of the establishment.

As a family-owned business, Olivia mentions that helping run Bishop Creek Lodge has been “a fulfilling experience" for her family, the Thomas family. Preserving the historical integrity of the property is one of the priorities for the owners, and they make an effort to improve the structure while maintaining its historical aspects. Many of the buildings on the grounds have historical significance, with some dating back to the early days of settlement. Although not all cabins are original, a few were constructed in the mid-20th century.

Click for directions on Google
Established
1928
Location

2100 S Lake Rd
Bishop, California 95314
United States

Type

Campground

Owners

Jennifer & Percy Thomas

Phone
760-873-4484
Reviews
4.6 (103 Reviews)
4.6/5 103 Reviews
Google.com
Sponsored By ResNexus