Lake Mary

If someone only has one day in Mammoth during summer, I usually tell them to start at Lake Mary  

It’s super accessible, absolutely beautiful, and has a little bit of everything. You can rent kayaks, paddle boards, fishing boats, or just grab a chair and enjoy the view.

The drive up Lakes Basin Road alone is worth it.

One of my favorite things about Lake Mary is that it works for every type of trip. Families love it because it’s easy. Couples love it because the scenery is unreal. And if you’re the type that wants coffee in hand watching the mountains reflect off the water at 7am… this is your spot.

There’s also great fishing here for trout if that’s your thing.

If you stay with us at Peck Vacay Mammoth Rentals, Lake Mary is just a quick drive from the condos.

Twin Lakes

This feels a little more classic “old Mammoth.”

Surrounded by tall pines and dramatic mountain scenery, Twin Lakes is known for:

• fishing
• kayaking
• canoeing
• hiking trails
• Tamarack Lodge access

The Twin Lakes area is also one of the best places to catch sunrise reflections on calm mornings.

If you want the iconic Mammoth alpine-lake experience, start here.

Convict Lake

About 10-15 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes, it is the most photographed lake in the Eastern Sierra.

The water has this crazy blue-green color, and the mountain backdrop looks almost fake in person.

The hike around the lake is relatively easy, and one of the best bang-for-your-buck walks in the area. You get huge mountain views the entire time.

It’s also a great place to grab lunch nearby or spend half a day relaxing.

If someone asks me for a “must-see” lake near Mammoth during summer, Convict is it.

June Lake 

Technically... just outside Mammoth, but absolutely worth the drive.

June Lake has more of a laid-back lake town feel, and I think one of the best Beaches in the region for an all day hang out. The small town of June has your food and drinks taking care of with June Brewing and the June Pie Pizza Co  is to die for!  

The entire June Lake Loop is one of the best summer drives in California.

This area is awesome for:

• Paddle boarding
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Beach days
• Brewery stops
• Scenic drives

If you’re staying in Mammoth for several days, I always recommend doing at least one day exploring the June Lake Loop.

Horseshoe Lake 

This is one of the better lakes if you want easy access and room to spread out at the very top of Lake Mary Road.

It’s popular for paddleboarding and kayaking, and there are areas where people hang out along the shoreline for the day.

The scenery around Horseshoe is awesome, especially with the volcanic landscape mixed into the forest.

It’s also one of the easier lakes for families with kids.