Convict Lake Campground Reviews

Convict Lake in spite of its criminal name is a beautiful lake left behind when the glaciers retreated. The water is so clear. You can see polished rocks below the surface.

We went to convict fishing and stopped by the store to get a few things and noticed the restaurant had a tent up from a wedding a few days earlier. What a cool setting and the food was Awesome.
A great find ! Yum

Convict Lake is a lake of incredible scenery. Fishing is outstanding from the bank or on the water where rental boats are available. The campground is beautiful although not on the lake but on a stream full of trout. Cabins are cozy and clean. One of the better restaurants in all of California is located here. A pack station provides access to the back country. There is also a good trail around the lake.

Get there early. Very little parking. Good fishing and it's a nice 3 mile hike around the lake......

A beautiful location that we had originally planned on hiking, fishing, and spending the entire day there. However, There were way too many people/visitors from Southern CA that were not wearing face masks nor social distancing. This was on June 29, 2020, so we can’t imagine how bad it was on the 4th of July weekend.

We understand it’s an outdoor location, but just because it’s outdoor, does not mean to stop following mask wearing and social distancing guidelines. It felt like the Pac-Man video game, whereby we were constantly moving, dodging, and looking for open areas for clearances.

We chose to leave because there were just too many disrespectful visitors. Prepare accordingly If you do plan on visiting the area.

Drove to this very quiet tranquil setting from Mammoth lakes which took about 15 mins. The lake is surrounded by mountains and we found a quiet spot to sit and chill. It's a shame you do not seem to be able to walk around it but still a nice place to visit

amazing in winter, well worth the short drive up there from the Highway , the ice formations at the lakes edge looked great

We visited Convict Lake and went horseback riding around the lake. Beautiful views and it was quite impressive. Lots of fishing going on.

We visited Mammoth Lakes in August of 2019. On our last day in Mammoth, we decided to visit Convict Lake.

Let me preface my review by saying that I am incredibly out of shape. I’m not a hiker. I have a fitness level of 0. But I enjoyed hiking around Convict Lake.

There was a lot of parking, but I think that the summer tourism was winding down. We saw other people on the trail, but for most of the time we felt like we were the only ones.

There is shade, but not a lot, so wear sunscreen and bring water! We stupidly forgot water bottles (the convenience store located on the road into the parking area sells big bottles of cold water, so if you forget water also, you can certainly buy some).

The trail is pretty easy. It’s level for the most part. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty: part of the trail was very dusty and part of the trail was a little muddy. Also, people take horses on the trail, so there’s a lot of horse poop as well.

While a lot of it is in full sun, there are lots of places to pause by the lake in the shade of a tree.

The only place that may cause a problem is around the halfway point. The lake is fed by a stream and we had to cross the stream by walking over a rudimentary bridge (it was just a bunch of big sticks).

I think that if we had remembered water the hike would have been perfect. We brought youngish kids with us (9 and 12 years old) and they had fun for the most part. :)

On our way up to Mammoth, we stopped for a little hike (2.5) around the lake. It was a perfect way to stretch after 4 hours in the car. The east side of the lake has very little shade, unlike the west side. I would go early a.m.or late in the afternoon. We stopped at the little general store to pick up an icy cold beer which we enjoyed out of paper bags because they do not "allow" alcohol in the shady picnic area. We were hoping the restaurant would be open but the hours were later than worked into our travel plans.

Our friend took us here and then we returned to hike around the lake because it was so beautiful. The saw-tooth mountains and sheer granite features surrounding this lake made our hike one oo-and-ah after another! The fishing is great, and the hike is every bit as good. There are facilities and camping and picnicking areas, as well as a resort with restaurant and large gift store and other amenities. If you're visiting Mammoth Lakes, this lake is a must-do!

It was windy and sunny when we stopped here. Not far from the highway and a real gem. Wish we had time to walk around the lake. Looks like a beautiful hiking and picnic area with lots of parking. Lake is set right up to the mountains and crystal clear!

Located just south of Mammoth Mountain off 395 you will find the road to Convict Lake. It's a beautiful lake and not a ton of people there if you get there early.

Like all of Yosemite this is a breath-taking beautiful place You just have to stop off for a photo shoot It is still calm and has such a spiritual feeling around it If I ever get the opportunity to go back to Yosemite and all its beautiful scenery lakes mountains I definitely would Loved it

Parking area right by lakeside. Small marina at one side of the lake. we sat down and soaked it all in. There is a path all around the lake from where you can see the place at different angles. Very icy cold water.

We started out our visit to the Mammoth Lakes area by exploring Convict Lake. It's 2 miles off I-395 and a relatively easy 3 mile walk around the lake at 7500 feet.
It was peaceful early in the morning with hikers, fishermen and a few folks passing thru the trail on horseback. There were several boats out there with people fishing and also families fishing off the shore.

After parking on the East (shady) side, as I walked around the lake, most people said that they were catching trout and enjoying the magnificent setting there. The topography along the trail is varied with trees, scrub, steep rock walls and the water color changes from blues to emerald green as you go around the lake. There are also boats for rent, plus beach access with a short hike and picnic & camping areas.

It's an easy and accessible stop and they even have a wheel chair accessible fishing area and a part of the trail. It does warm-up mid day and can get windy mid-afternoon, so dress in layers. On my next visit, I'll pack a picnic, book and blanket and to enjoy watching the activity on the lake after my hike.

Beautiful lake with a little lodge and bar near the entrance. You can stay at the rooms they offer, which are cute.

We loved our time at Convict Lake in June 2018. We have visited Convict Lake many times. This time there was lots of people fishing, hiking, and boating. A lot of the free parking was parked full There is some $5 dollar parking for the day by the tiny marina.

There is a very good restaurant by Convict Lake as well as cabins and camping.

There is a nice place to swim, hike and other activities. We go here just for a run and a swim. There is good parking and bathrooms.

A beautiful small lake with a very nice walking trail, well worth the visit while in the Mammoth Lakes area. Make a reservation for an amazing dining experience at the Convict Lake Resort next door to the lake.

What an incredible place to visit. Surrounded by 11,000-ft granite mountains with snow on the top. The water looks like a glacier fed like. No loud boats. Trails around the lake that are well kept up. People on paddle boards, fisherman, kayaks. Very uncrowded well worth the 10-minute drive from Mammoth lakes.

nice lake, easy to get to, paved walk way, bathrooms easily accessible. short hike options. nice spot for fishing or picnicking. great for kids.

We visited Convict Lakes during a short stay in Mammoth Lakes. It's is just off the highway and has plenty of places to park. So pleased we made the effort as I can honestly say it is beautiful, nature at its best.

We did the trail around the lake not too arduous, some in shade some not, hats and sun cream a must.

Quite simply stunning well worth a visit.

There is a 2.5 mile trail all the way around Convict Lake, which lies just 15 minutes south of the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. The trail is mostly flat, which is nice for those unaccustomed to the 7580 foot altitude. The north side of the lake is exposed and sunny, while the west end has an aspen forest, with a long boardwalk to cover the inlet streams. The fall colors are great here. The north lakeshore rises steeply to the summit of Mt Morrison at 12,277ft, and is often in shade. There is a road with adjacent walking path for one half mile along the south and southeast end. Look for ideal slate skipping stones here on the small beaches. Parking may be limited on a busy day.

We stopped at Convict Lake on our way home. It's easy to get to, and there's lots of free parking. The walk is an easy 2 miles around the lake. The lake view is beautiful, the water is crystal clear, and the mountains and trees are the perfect backdrop. The trail was a little too crowded and congested for us, that was a drawback. But I can see how it's a great place for families with children, as the path is level with almost no hills. If you're looking for an easy walk with beautiful scenery, this is the place for you. But there are better places around Mammoth for great hiking with awesome views.

Rent a boat and float around the lake you will love it!. The views of the mountain are spectacular. There was a bbq in the boat which we used and it was great.

The best place to take beautiful pictures near mammoth lakes, take the west exit near the airport u cant miss it.

This was such a pleasant walk (probably 2.5 miles) around the entire lake. There were very few little inclines but was hoping for more breeze/wind as I walked around the whole lake. The wind picked up for a minute but then it disappeared. The views were absolutely amazing. Almost every area around the lake provided great views. There were people fishing, boating, and some swimming. We enjoyed skipping rocks in one low spot on the trail on the southern side of the lake.

Easy stop right off the highway. Great to hang out for a few hours and eat or rest. The lake is stunning and full. I was expecting lower levels given the lack of rain this year. People were fishing and just hanging out. Seems like it would be a great place to camp.

Easy walk, the only problem we had was that a portion of one of the bridges was washed out and we could not continue around the entire lake.

Need I say more! The place is warm, gorgeous and relaxing and the people are nice. Need to go for at least 5-7 days!

Convict Lake is a beautiful clear mountain lake surrounded colorful granite cliffs on three sides. If you happen to be there on a very calm day you can get perfect reflection pictures of the lake and cliffs.

Camped overnight with my girlfriend. We positioned our tent so that we could see the waterfall. The views are so amazing. It is such a beautiful place to camp or have lunch. There is a camp store and also a restaurant on the property as well.

Took my dog for a walk around the lake. Loved the natural beauty...and the lack of other people (winter).

Definitely do the 3 mile hike around convict lake. It is totally worth it!! Certain areas were flooded but we climbed on logs and rocks to cross the water.

Beautiful lake and hike. Mostly flat, so it's pretty easy to walk around the full perimeter. Parts of it has no shade so be prepared if you're there in the spring/summer.

Quite one of the prettiest places to go to with the blue water and the towering mountains in the background some still with snow. easy to access and park just a short ride from 395

Enjoyed a lovely hike around this mountain lake etched in aspen and cottonwood. Great yellows and oranges.Trail well-kept and easy to follow and not too crowded. Fun to watch the fishermen chase trout. A very special place!

First visit to Convict Lake and the Resort for my son's wedding. It is unbelievably beautiful place!

Didn't think trout like bear are voracious eaters heading into winter time....well they are....fishing was like nothing I've experienced....and me without my fishing pole....my daughter caught them all & didn't waste any time getting it done.....from a spot on shore. Next year I will have my fishing gear

We've been to Mammoth in different seasons and the Convict Lake looks amazing in all of them! During the summer you can rent a boat and relax in the middle of the lake. Amazing views !

Had a beautiful night and a glorious day camping and hiking around the Lake. The Lake loop is only about a 5 km walk and can be done quickly or at leisure. Gorgeous views and very still water early in the morning. Many people like fishing at convict Lake. There were boats to rent as well.

You have to experience the view for yourself. The mountain faces in front of you at the water's edge, the smell of the wind coming off the lake, the turquoise water from snowmelt runoff twonlaoes above it, the absolutely warming hospitality the store and cabins have to offer. It's not only a privilege to visit, it's a dream that I treat myself to when rewarding myself and reconnecting myself with what really matters...your happiness.

Convict Lake was very pretty and I am glad I was recommended there by the owners of the Inn I stayed at, I only had overnight at Mammoth Lakes.

It is located a short drive from Mammoth Lakes Town Centre, turnoff from the highway.

There were a lot of people fishing there on the day I went.

If I had of had more time I am sure it would have been even more pleasant to go for one of the walks.

Allow extra time if you are a hiker when you visit.

I love this place. It is an easy drive from town- beautiful and quiet. The height of the mountains dwarf the lake and makes it appear smaller than it really is. it is actually quite large. There is plenty of good places to fish from shore or you can rent a boat and explore more of the deeper waters. The backside of the lake is pretty and secluded.

What a great walk/stroll around the lake. A mere 3.1 mile loop gets you away from human noises and begs you to listen to the mountain. The Fall colors were just about ripe, but their reflection on the water was spectacular. Worth the walk

for over 50 years I have loved convict lake. not so much for the fishing...... but the beauty at sunrise.it just has something special about it. its 2 mins from the highway... its worth a look at least.

I wonder how many driving in either direction on 395 simply speed past the exit to this beautiful lake?

At only about 2 miles off 395 up a well paved and maintained Road it is faster and shorter drive than from 395 into the town of Mammoth Lakes or the almost 9 miles up to Rock Creek Lake or 16+ miles up the Bishop Creek Canyon to multiple recreation locations.

The easy access to the lake, the campground, the Horse Rides - and of course the Resort Store, Cabins, and Phenomenal Restaurant.

If you have not ever ventured off the 395 to this gem, I strongly encourage you to allow at least 20 to 30 minutes for a quick side trip to at least briefly explore the beauty of what you are not able to see from the Highway.

Whenever we go to Mammoth Lakes we have a dinner at the restaurant at Convict Lake. In addition to a full bar they have wild game on the menu.

I have visited Convict lake a few times. The mountains going straight up next to the lake are breathtaking. We have done fishing, boating and also canoeing. A must see place if you are in the area. Even though the campground in winter is closed, it's worth taking a trip and looking at the lake in winter time.

It was so beautiful and serene. Nice walking trail, little nooks to pop down into to get into the water.

Great place for a picture. Nice trail. Not a lot of spots to park. Come early or dine at the restaurant then enjoy a nice walk.

One of the most breath taking lakes I've been to, fishing was fair ,but the views spectacular ,next visit in couple of days I'm going horse back riding

Beautiful lake with a nice trail loop that is easy to hike. If you want to rent a kayak or pontoon boat, I suggest reserving one ahead of time because they were sold out by 10am. There are nice little spots around the lake where you can swim and take in the great scenery. One other suggestion is to get there early if you want to avoid the crowds, especially if you want to hike because the trail is narrow.

One of the great places in the eastern Sierra. Perhaps one of the great places on earth! We loved the hiking, exploring, views, and the people. We had dinner at the restaurant and it was AMAZING. We can't wait to go back.

Wondrous beauty! Incredible blue colors of the water. The colours of the rocks from the different minerals leaves a picture that most artists could only try to create on their own. Easy hike around the lake with many great spots for photos. Have only been the one time, but already want to make a return visit. There is something about this place that makes me want to return.

Rented a double kayak, $40 for 2 hours, not bad! Beautiful scenery and plenty of spots to beach and have lunch.

I visit Convict lake at least three times a year. It has so much beauty. It is also very romantic in the evenings especially if you enjoy the restaurant before at Convict Lake.

Very nice restaurant. A bit pricey but for a special occasion it is perfect. Would not reccommend for family dining. Very unique menu. Service ambiance was perfect Great for that special evening i.e. birthday, anniversary, etc.

Convict Lake is an amazing looking lake. It is very photographed and has been in many movies. A rich histor1y surrounds the lake and there are story boards that tell the tales. I never miss an opportunity to see the lake. Fall colors were out and it made the 395 drive breathtaking.

Great, short walk around the lake. It was so beautiful and a nice flat trail if you aren’t looking for uphill hikes. Depending on the time of year, waterproof hiking boots might be helpful, as there was running water over the the paths.

Took advantage of some warm late-Oct. weather for one last camping trip in the Sierra. It was the last weekend the campground was open - about 60% full. This is a popular campground. The spots vary widely in privacy and most don't have shade. Most sites are pretty well separated so even if you can see/be seen by others, you have you own space. I like the openness for views and stargazing.

The lake itself is appropriately developed. There is enough to easily enjoy but not ruin the experience. Nice paved pathway for easy access and hiking trail to get away from the majority of people.

I first dinner with the convict Lake lodge six months prior we were given a selection for five main course options as well as a wide selection of dessert for our menu. We finally settled on a price of $68 per person for the all-inclusive private dinner. Alcohol was separate. We were all served very fast and the food was superb.

All the places in this area are beautiful. So many pretty lakes in the same are. Our whole trip was full of beauty at every terrain.

So stunning. Views, aspen trees, snow in May. Easy walk around the lake with many places to stop and take in the views. Fishermen. Picnic tables. Wheelchair access on one side of the lake. Dogs allowed. Wonderful afternoon hike.

We rented a pontoon and cruised along the lake. The views of the mountains were beautiful. The boat rental people were very friendly and helpful. We didn't realize that they had a small gas barbecue on board so you can grill burgers and hot dogs. They allowed dogs on the boats, and you can fish too.

I think this was the most beautiful lake in the Mammoth Lakes area. The mountains around it make like an amphitheater effect. The colors are beautiful. We walked a little bit around it on a nice black top path that had viewing platforms. We saw people fishing. We did not go into the marina, but you can rent kayaks or boats. Just the feeling of the colorful mountains surrounding you gave me an awesome experience.

Convict Lake is about 15 minutes south of Mammoth and easily accessible by car. There is a nice 3 mile walk around the lake that has few hills and is easy to follow. The trick is to start on the sunny side, going to the right from the parking lot. If you start on the shady tree side, you end up doing the second half of the hike in the full sun and it's very tiring! Scenery is beautiful with lots of little trails down to the water's edge and also a very scenic tree lined path at the other end of the lake from the parking lot.

Beautiful lake. Camp spots are quiet and clean. Space between spots is nice. You have your privacy. However the spots are small and especially tight if you have a trailer or RV. We really enjoyed all the lake has to offer, boat, kayak rentals and restaurant. Just don't bother asking the host for any help or God forbide you have any questions. He is rude, unfriendly and unapproachable!

We eventually (due to my card not playing ball) managed to hire a boat.
Great service and instruction. The lake was beautiful, it was so relaxing and quiet. Managed to spot a coyote down by the waters edge.
So glad we seen this place and would again.

Visited today and canoed on the beautiful lake backed by stunning high mountains ... very scenic and a recommended place to visit if staying nearby. The walk around the lake is an easy 3 miles.

Convict Lake is exceptional in an area full of beautiful lakes and mountain scenery. It is well worth the short drive from Hwy 395. Parking is available right at the lake. Another lake and mountainside carved out by glacial activity.

Absolutely beautiful. Rent a boat for the day and fished, swam and BBQed on the boat. This was my kids favorite thing we did at mammoth lakes.

Trout season has not started yet so it's not real hectic right now . The lake and surrounding mountains are as beautiful as anything on earth , this place is majestic !

I didn’t appreciate the lake the first time; however, after a second visit I now understand the true beauty of this place. Super easy 2.5 mile hike (I clocked my GPS and it was exactly 2.5 miles); going back for a third time this week. The view is just truly amazing. Parking is limited and wear a mask while hiking!

Hiking the trails around Convict Lakes and then up along the Convict Creek Trail is real nice in the spring, summer and fall; however, the Trail does require that you cross the Creek and during the spring it can be tricky if the Winter snowfall was strong. There was a bridge but it was washed out be debris several years ago and has not been replace. Your destination could be Mildred Lake or Dorothy Lake. Of the two lakes, Dorothy is nicer but requires an additional mile over a steep trail. When you return, dinner or take-out at the Convict Lake Restaurant is quite good and a nice reward for your hiking adventure.

It’s a cool place to hike ! We went there in January. We just hiked around the lake . The view is so beautiful!

We absolutely loved our time at Convict Lake. The lake is right outside of the city of Mammoth, CA. We stayed right at Convict Lake Resort and would do a nightly walk around the lake which provided the perfect getaway and beautiful backdrop for our romantic walks. We would highly recommend a visit not only in the summer time for activities on the lake, but for a winter getaway and crystal blue water scenic view.

on the beauty and peace in nature in autumn. We made it halfway around past the boardwalk to a peaceful cove at which we were all struck into silence by the beauty there--the yellowing aspens, the lapping of the waves on the shore. A must experience.

It was certainly the most beautiful view we have ever enjoyed! The lake with the mountain in the background is truly unbelievably beautiful! Unfortunately it was windy so the water wasn't reflecting the mountain but it was still the best and most beautiful lake in the region!

My sister and I decided to stop here on our way out of Mammoth and so glad that we did!, it's a very short drive right off the highway. We didn't have the time to do any hiking but I bet that would be awesome to do. We just stopped to take in all of the beauty and take some pics. We talked briefly to a gentleman that was fishing and sketching along the shoreline. This is a definite stop. ENJOY!

We put our kayaks into Convict Lake on several different trips to the Eastern Sierra and never been disappointed with the experience. The scenery is gorgeous and the preponderance of fisher folk keep the lake quiet and peaceful. Can’t wait fir a return visit!

We drove up here in mid November and the wind was ridiculous. We stayed fro maybe an hour. If it's blowing from the west, go somewhere else. On the other hand it's beautiful and I'd be glad to go back when the wind wasn't so nuts.

About 2.5 mile trial easy hike around the lake with lots of shaded areas mostly on the right side of the trial (start counterclockwise so the sun doesn't hit you in the face, if you don't care then it's fine). Lots of areas to get close to the water. People fishing, boating, swimming, or chilling. Go early to avoid crowd and find easy parking. Lake located before entrance of mammoth and a must visit.

Had a great time camping with buddies in September 2017 for a fishing trip (sorry for the late review). Fished Crowley lake and stayed at convict. Close to both lakes and the campsite has incredible scenario at night. I am planning another trip back in the spring to fish the lake and do some light hiking with the fam. There aren't many amenities in the local area so driving up to mammoth added a bit of additional adventure but it's only 20 mins away. Overall it was a great getaway although not as developed as the June Lake loop, Mammoth, or Yosemite, it was a lot easier to get a reservation.

This is a small, beautiful and clean lake. Don't forget to bring your camera and walking shoes. There is parking by the lake and there is a place to bring your boat in the summer. The scenery is gorgeous .

Convict Lake is great for a day trip of fishing or hiking. It also is a beautiful place to stay in the cabins. Daughter got married there and it was beautiful. Staff was wonderful.

We hiked about half way around the lake. We chose to stay on the shady side. It is a fairly easy hike on a well marked trail. There are even stairs on some parts. Lots of boating, fishing and a few swimmers. Good parking general store and convenient restrooms.

Convict Lake is a very beautiful lake. I have been coming to this lake since I was a boy and my parents brought me here to go fishing and now I bring my family here to go fishing. My family and I enjoy coming to this lake to go fishing and hike at the back of the lake. This place always brings back good memories for me. And I hope my kids will bring their families here when they get older.

This place is beyond words beautiful. Worth the drive down to the end where you can park and walk down to the lovely lakeshore. So beautiful, there was a restaurant and a boat launch as well as the lovely lakeshore.

It was a beautiful clear winter day, roads were open and the trail was open for walking although not plowed. Wonderful mountain reflections.

Great short hike. We had to wade through the far end, but that was part of the fun. Parking is easy and the area is pretty. Lots of people fishing, boating, paddleboarding and they have an event area with a tent for weddings and gatherings. I think the views and hiking are better in Mammoth Lakes, so I gave three stars, but worth the short trip from Mammoth.

About 2 miles from the Mammoth Lake Airport, this is a decent size lake with good trout fishing. You can rent a variety of boats from kayaks to electric pontoon boats (complete with barbecues!). Easy access makes it easy to take your family fishing.

We had been told about Convict Lake from some friends. So upon leaving the Mammoth area we decided to stop by for a quick hike before heading home from the weekend.

It was an easy hike around the lake. Lots of dogs and people but not too crowded. The best part was the scenic beauty. We enjoyed our time so much so that we would not mind doing the same thing on another trip. Worth the stop on your way into town or out of.

This review is for both the campground and the resort. We've been coming to convict lake for the last 10 years and we always choose Convict Lake, truly my happy place. It's so nice and convenient to be close enough to Mammoth but just enough off the path. The lake is so beautiful (just look at Instagram, it's one of the most popular shooting locations). The restrooms are clean and always looked after (in the campground) and the hosts have always been nice. There is one camping spot that deceives you as it's actually 2 camping spots but 1 larger pad. Which is fine when you are sharing with friends/family.
There is a small creek that goes through the campground so you can hear water rushing at night. There is fishing there as well as a bridge that makes a nice and short hike up to the market.
The market is super nice. All your needs met and for a good enough price. The only issue I take with the store is it's not connected to the camping so campers can't get on their WiFi. I don't like this, just because we want to primitive camp doesn't mean we want primitive amenities. I would like to see the resort work this out with the campground. There is a restaurant, food truck, warm/clean showers, and beautiful cabins. The fish washing station is close enough to the store but just enough out of sight for those that find the chore "gross".
One last issue I have is that during Fishmas (Trout opening) the restrooms along the lake are closed and you don't have access to a restroom. Your only real option is to walk to the store (which isn't that close considering you have to use the restroom) or, if you're camping, take that extra long walk to the camps. You can drive, of course, but you can lose your parking space (it's busy during Fishmas).
Besides those two complaints, I recommend it here. You can hike around the lake, past the lake, take horses, boats, you name it. The parking is good here too. Day use, the boat launch, the resort, and even some to the left of the lake. HIghly recommend it.

This is a great place to get off the grid and enjoy nature! Beautiful views! Don't be surprised to see a deer walk right past you or a wedding on the bank. This place is a jem! Also has a great restaurant.

Mother's Day during a snowstorm in the high Sierras. What could be better? Well, dinner at this quaint resort. How about this: trio of sauteed mushrooms; squash soup; field greens salad; filet, beef wellington and FRESH rainbow trout, all spot on prepared. End with choc ganache and fresh raspberries, and fresh vanilla bean brulee plus a great Portuguese port. This is a don't miss restaurant for any East Sierra road trip.

This was a nice break from Mammoth. Manageable lake to joke around. Crystal clear water and from what we were told by people fishing it has an abundance of fish.

There is a great restaurant here that fills quickly so make reservations if you are planning to dine here.

We fished on our visit. Basic fishing and expect lots of company. A stroll around the entire lake is a nice experience.

BEautiful location. Go to the back of the lake and walk the bridges over the streams! Good fishing at the back of the lake as well.

Wonderful place year round in main dining. Pricey but food and dining experience is worth it.
In the summer the bar area is open for outside dining. Pizza and a beer Apres a hike around Convict Lake is a must. They also host weddings outside. Just a lovely get away from town with great views.

We rented a boat with a canopy for shade, purchased a 2-day fishing license and some night crawlers at the nearby resort and had a really fun time on the lake. Amazing scenery and relaxed atmosphere. We didn't catch any fish, but we had a great time nonetheless. The canopy on the boat was particularly great -- prevented sunburn and kept us cool during a relatively hot Mammoth summer day.

This place is beautiful with beautiful hikes and climbing spots. I took this photo over the summer there and it came out beautifully!

Amazing lake only a few miles from Highway 395. The campgrounds were still closed so we had the place to ourselves. High peaks surround the lake, very beautiful. The campground looked pretty open but the area is worth a trip. We walked part way around the lake loop trail but were blocked by snow.

The lake is beautiful (of course) and the walk around it was terrific. Two highlights: At the far end of the lake, the melting snow comes cascading into and thereby feeding the lake. The path is elevated to pass over these numerous feeder creeks, but a good deal of it is washed away. We did not brave the fallen trees but rather took off our shoes and forded the creeks. It was a little painful, walking on the rocks, but refreshing and fun. Then, walking on what I think is the east side of the lake, we found ourselves just a few feet from a pair of deer. They were not nearly as concerned about us as we were about them. Got some great pictures, and then wished them a nice day. Goodness knows, ours was.

Excellent campgrounds and scenery. Striking dark skies at night and chiseled mountains are spectacular. A hidden gem? Not really. It’s right off of US395

We're avid skiers and usually only visit Mammoth in the winter. However, this year we decided to check it out in the summer. There are so many places to explore in Mammoth in the summer, Convict Lake being one of my personal favorites. The lake is stunning and there are lots of activities. Our kids had never been fishing, so we spent almost a full day at the lake. The kids caught lots of fish and had a wonderful time.

Great stunning view of the lake, wind so yummy cold it takes your breath away. I love this lake for the colors of the mountains, the history and the new changes are interesting!

Unfortunately, the nearby fires obscured a great view. But we loved the lake and the wonderful scenery. We attended a wedding, which was lovely. Recommend visiting. A hidden gem.

Pictures don't do it justice. The lake is just gorgeous and serene. A definite must see. You can walk around the entire lake.

We did the hike around the lake and it is not to be missed. An absolutely stunning view and the hike is only around 3 miles.

Good fishing from shore and the stream has some nice trout too. Plenty to do i.e. fishing, hiking, photography, food stop, etc. Short drive from 395. Parking can get crowded. Best in mornings and evenings.

one of the most beautiful in the world everyone should go there
it's so lovely in December and winter

We visited just after the peak of the fall colors. It was still fabulous and an area not to be missed. The trail around the lake was an easy walk...we walked counter clockwise. It is 3+ miles. The history of the lake is interesting if you like history.

We stopped at a picnic table and had lunch.

A dramatic setting for a beautiful, small lake. Only 5 minutes off the main road, so, you might as well come up for a look. Mostly for fishing, but there’s a trail around the lake if you want to take an easy hike.

Convict Lake is hardly a criminal. The only thing that would be a crime is not coming here if you love landscapes, hiking, or simply being outdoors.

Be careful when renting the boats because they will try to charge you extra even when you’ve followed their policy. I have rented the pontoon boat plenty of times but was disappointed on my most recent visit due to the fact that my party attempted to return the boat on time and were told to wait while they let out some other boats. We waited and radioed in again and once again we’re told that they would be ready for us momentarily. By the time they told us they were ready to dock us, 30 minutes had passed and although not our fault for the delay, we were told we were going to be charged and extra fee because we didn’t return the boat in on time. I would understand the charge if we purposely stayed out on the lake, but that was not the case. I asked one of the employees for the managers numbers I discuss the issue, and she told me to leave my number and the manager would call me later that day. Never got that call and still waiting

Beautiful Convict Lake just after snow fall in October 2016. Fall colors are strong still and an awesome trip for me.

The best campground in the Sierras. The campground manager Dennis is very attentive and friendly. We have been coming up here for 20years and always look forward to seeing Dennis.

Arrive early, filled up by 10am. Nice easy hike around the lake, then we were able to kayak the lake. Water so clear and clean. beautiful views

Fun hike around the lake, well almost around as the heavy snow resulted in the melting water blocking our way. Great photo location depending on the clouds and wind.

The first time I went to Convict lake, I was there with my dad. He took my brother and myself fishing. It was a memorable experience...when you get to Convict lake, you drive up the mountain...then you see a deep lake between a few mountains. The water is REALLY cold (melted snow) and there were plenty of trout in the lake. It's not a huge lake but enough to enjoy a nice day of fishing.

convict lake is a must visit on your trip to mammoth. with Mt Morrison towering over this large lake, its awesome beauty is spectacular.
fishing on the lake is generally good. there is a pack station and general store and several cabins available for nightly rentals. also a camp ground to stay at. Convict Lake Restaurant is a great treat for any occasion. casual fine dining in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

I have fished for trout at Convict Lake for many years. It’s one of the gems of the Eastern Sierra. Fishing is great and the beauty is magnificent.
The restaurant is one of the best in California. The campgrounds are streamside and provide amazing night sky views.
The resort has a general store, pack trips, boat rentals and trout derbies.

Just a short drive off the 395 takes you to this beautiful lake. The Drive next to the lake is very scenic but the accessible trail is just amazing for those of us in wheelchairs. Perfect for Fall colors, the lake is very photogenic in its surroundings.

If you stay at Mammoth and love hiking, this is a must do! The trail around the lake gives you different views depending on the season and time of the day you visit! Even in August, it was cold though. Wear layered clothing. There are picnic options, benches to relax and wild life sights are normal. As someone noted, don't get deceived by the name and this is worth the effort. Fishing is a good option as well.

We took a hike around Convict, relatively short and not at all strenuous. The lake was so peaceful and beautiful autumn colours. Fishermen sat peacefully by the shore and on small boats, quiet conversations drifted across the water. This was all in such contrast to the harsh High Sierra surroundings.
A great place to be at peace and at one with nature.

It really is all about the view at Convict. Do some research on the reason behind the name before you go. We've fished the lake by land and on pontoon. We've also fished the creek. The water rivals that of Tahoe, as you can see you're lure drop to the bottom of the frigid waters. Although on our previous visit there was road construction, it was completed by our most recent visit and it had improved getting around tremendously.

Convict Lake is nestled under some spectacular peaks which is why it is such a great place for a picnic. Follow the road to the end, park, and walk out to the stoney beach where there are some picnic tables under the trees. (Note: there are also restroom facilities.) You can also pick up the trail around the lake at this point, for a lovely walk after lunch. Great side trip from Mammoth Lakes, and a different feel altogether. Convict Lake, we understand, also has a fantastic restaurant for dinner, and we enjoyed the small convenience store there and the nice and knowledgable couple running it - Ask them about the history of the place!

We hiked around Convict Lake in February with limited snow and ice. This is a 3 mile loop with well maintained trail. There is plenty of parking near Lake. Don’t forget to bring lunch.

This was a great short hike. We did not go all the way around the lake. I hear you can and it is about 3 miles. We parked at the day use parking lot (which is past the trail head) and hiked all the way to the back of the lake where you hike on a boardwalk. Definitely hike to the boardwalk because it is really pretty back there. There are many aspen trees that glow yellow in the Fall. The boardwalks are fun as you walk over the runoff from the mountains.

The lake is pretty close to the 395 so if you are around that area, its worth a stop.

Convict Lake has a wonderful paved road around it, which makes it handicapped-accessible. There are picnic tables and some free parking. We didn't have trouble parking, but we went on a weekday. I think it would be more difficult to park on weekends. Get there early.

I've been coming here for a decade and while it's become more popular, it's still such a pretty little lake. Serious fisherman may find it hard to find a fishing spot that's quiet since it's become so popular in recent years and can be a little zoo-like in peak tourist season. Families would have a lot of fun here. It's not the quaint little lake anymore, but I can recognize that it's a hot spot for boating, kayaking, and other family activities nowadays. Campsites are also great and there's a variety of open or enclosed spots. I highly recommend making reservations in peak seasons or on weekends. For the love of nature, do not feed the deer.

Convict Lake is a spectacular setting. It has one of many trailheads in Mono County, CA off of US HWY 395 that offer access to the High Sierra. These typically are a few miles west of the highway, and climb some 3000 feet to a pass giving onto higher peaks to the west.

Convict is a beautiful place to spend a morning or afternoon walking around the lake. There are picnic tables, bathrooms, and a campground on the south side of the lake.

If you think of the lake as a clock face with the 6 at the east entrance where you drive in, the trailhead to the high country is at about 1 o'clock. If you are planning to reach the high country, there is a stream crossing that is difficult or impossible in the Spring, but is generally OK after July. But just walking up that high and back offers great views.

Great place for entry level hiking especially with kids. Lots of places to stop on the loop trail. Gorgeous views. Sparkling water. We’ve come multiple times with our kids. Easy trip from Mammoth Lakes.

The lake water levels in the Mammoth area are very low these days, especially in October, but THIS is the lake to hike around for gorgeous lake scenery and fall colors. The leaves were yellow in the first week of October. I had expected more red, but the weather has been too warm too long this fall. I expect the leaves will be jaw- droppingly gorgeous by the third week of October.

The hike is about 2.5 miles around the whole lake and takes about an hour and a half.

The path is paved near the boat launch, a wooden boardwalk at the south end with the beach and trees, and the rest of the trail is a dirt path with many short paths or stairs leading down to the lake's edge. The path varies slightly in elevation, but is an easy walk overall.

There are also several paths with stairs leading down to the hiking path from Convict Lake Road above, which runs about a quarter mile southeast from the marina/ campground before it dead ends. Park here if you arrive early or visit in the off-season.

We started from the resort parking, which added about a half mile to the hike as you need to hike up over a small hill and then back down to meet the trail on the other side.

We took tons of pics with the mountains in the background, reflections on the lake surface, and varied hues of blue and green water. The passing clouds and angles around the lake offer many beautiful pictures that look like different places. It's a really pretty hike.


Recommendations:

If you hike in the summer, arrive early as parking (in every area here) is limited.

Start at the marina and walk the sunny, barren west side first (to your right). This path is mostly level and higher above the lake, offering more panoramic views, but there is no shade, so you definitely want to start on that side when the weather is warm. It's only about a 30-40 min walk to get to the south end with the beach. The walk on the other side is more hilly, but shaded most of the way.

The best pics are from the south end.

it's very easy to get to from the hwy! some gorgeous views....easy walking/hiking trails around the lake..there's trout in the water for those seeking them as well..it's definitely a hidden gem...there's also a store close by in case you forgot to bring the coffee and the power bait!

What a strange name for such a gorgeous lake!

If only convicts were allowed at Convict Lake, then everyone would want to be a convict. This small lake is one of the most beautiful and peaceful that I have ever laid eyes on. Hard to believe that you can just drive here. No hiking needed to see this beauty!! It is only a detour of several miles from Hwy 395. Located close to Mammoth.

Convict Lake looks like a picture perfect postcard. The water is crystal clear! The Sierra Nevada mountains serve as a backdrop. You can see the reflection of the mountains in the still waters of Convict Lake like it was a mirror.

We walked around the lake. It is a easy walk for most folks. Approximately 3 miles on a mostly flat trail. All around, the scenery is truly beautiful!!

Highly recommend stopping by Convict Lake!! Don't worry, there are no convicts here. You can google search if you want to know how the lake received its name. ;-)

It is a short drive from Mammoth Lakes to Convict Lake,then Just 2 miles off of Highway 395, where there is a nice little marina and plenty of parking next to the lake and a restaurant at the resort.
You can take a very easy 3 mile hike around the lake which is just beautiful and peaceful surrounded by mountains.The Trail well-kept and easy to follow and not too crowded.
At the west side of the lake,the area is surrounded by grasses and lush trees and there is a very long raised wooden pathway over the large area of water which pours into the lake and People were fishing.It is a good place to Stop for rest and take some pictures .
We went middle of September,it's not too crowded, and the weather was perfect.
Don't miss if you're in the Mammoth Lakes area,It is scenic all the way around the lake,and make sure you take water,food and Camera.

Convict lake is a short drive from Mammoth Lakes and a great little half day trip. The lake is set just in front of the mountains and we noticed a lot of fishermen. Great for photos and an easy stroll.

Bring sunscreen and bug spray. We also snacked along the trail. There are bathrooms but they are kinda icky, bring sanitizer.

The path was partially covered with snow but we walked half the trail and that was enjoyable.

Small lake, pretty at one end. Rented a pontoon boat, twilight special ;2 hours 3rd hour free for $180.00 . Sunday at 4:30 lake not crowded .

If you just arrived in Mammoth Lakes and are still adjusting to the altitude this is a beautiful introduction to the eastern side of the Sierra. The trail circumnavigates the lake on an easy 2.3 mile hike which is easily doable by kids and older hikers. There is also a .3 mile paved trail for wheelchair access. Be advised that at the halfway point of the hike a small feeder stream crosses the trail. It’s not deep, only about 6 inches or so, but your options for continuing the hike are balancing on a fallen log that lies across the stream, stepping on the five large irregularly shaped stones placed across the stream or, if you want to keep your feet dry, taking off your shoes and socks and wading across the stone stream bed. This is a beautiful way to start your trip.

It's hard to put into words about our first visit to Convict Lake. It was amazing, beautiful and colorful. The fall colors made the hike around the lake a wonderful experience. This is a must see for everyone.

Convict Lake was our starting point for a 6 mile backpacking trip to nearby Mildred Lake. The "trail" is quite primitive in spots. Like, where did it go? Admittedly, my group was composed of novice backpackers. It is necessary to cross Convict Creek where it converges with the feeding stream from Lake Genevieve. A bridge built in 1982 is no longer there. I would not recommend going during snow run-off time, as there are several other dry creekbeds that we also crossed. There is also an elevation gain of about 2200 feet between Convict Lake and Mildred Lake.

Amazing little lake at the end of the road. A little parking lot, place to eat, and maybe even a boat rental.

While visiting Mammoth Lake, we were told we should visit Convict Lake, which we never had heard of. So we drove there one morning to check it out and lucky we did.

The scenery was fantastic with the snow capped mountain backdrop. There are walking trails around the lake and plenty of places to park. During fishing season you can fish and hire a small boat and try your luck on the lake.

There is not much else there, just a shack to hire an boat during the season and a toilet but again you come here just to admire the scenery and the beauty.

Well worth a quick detour to here if passing by

We drove here from Mammoth Lakes, which only took 10 minutes and was just gorgeous! Amazing views and a must do if going to Mammoth Lakes. You only need to allow 30-60minutes to incorporate this trip.

Stream or Lake fishing from shore is pretty good. Very interesting area and some great scenery and well worth the stop to just walk around the lake.

This review is only for the boat rentals at the Convict lake resort. We visited during the pandemic on a busy Columbus Day weekend and had a great time on the water. The rental is located right on the lake. I would recommend reservations as they have a very small fleet of boats. Holidays and weekends are crowded given the proximity to Bay area. We walked-in in the morning and the tandem kayaks were not available until later in the day. The guy at the office was very very helpful and booked us for later in the day. The staff made the launch and dock really easy for us. They seem to have only sit-on-top kayaks.

The lake itself is gorgeous with the backdrop of the mountain and some fall colors. The water is mostly calm and the paddle was relaxing. It took only half an hour not even to get across the lake at an easy pace. We got off at the beach like area and enjoyed a snack in the woods. Paddle back was very enjoyable as well.

We were fortunate to visit Convict Lake in the fall, so the trees were beautiful, which really made the lake especially pretty and a great photo opportunity. I walked a short distance on the trail and found it easy to navigate, with occasional places to get closer to the shore.

What a piece of heaven!This lake is clean,cold,clear and it has the most amazing views.The road up there it was beautiful!We walked around the lake and all the spots had great views.Also there is a beach where we layed down to enjoy the cold water and the mountain views.

Hike this place, please. The lake is gorgeous with a short Loop around the lake 2-3 miles. The Convict creek trail ascends into the John Muir wilderness and offers amazing views and challenging hiking. So many people fishing at the lake for brown and rainbow trout. It is a scene of awesome beauty.

Since we were there last a new walking path was created. Wonderful and wheel chair accessible for those who need it. Great restaurant as well nearby. This is one of my go to places for photos.

We had an awesome day on the lake. First order of business was the three mile loop around the lake. It's fairly flat terrain and you are treated to some amazing views. The trail is well maintained and it's considered a 'moderate' hike though I would put it on the easier side of moderate. By way of reference, I'm an avid walker but by no means an avid hiker.

We also rented one of the pontoon boats (and a paddle board) for the day. We were 4 adults and 3 kids and the 18' foot boat was the perfect size. They were out of the 'deluxe' boat but I learned that the only difference is the bbq on board so if you are not planning on bbqing then this is no matter. You can beach the boats so we set up camp on the other side of the lake and were able to enjoy the paddle board and a picnic. Then boarded the boat to try some floating time and fishing. Very fun and relaxing though not much luck with the fishing. Being on the water also offers another entirely different and unique look at the amazing scenery.

Short drive from mammoth lakes to visit a fantastic High Sierra Lake. We go here in the fall and spring for fishing. Trail all the way around the lake with ample spots to cast your line. Ample parking and good beach access for those not wanting to hike. They also have lots of boats for rent. Can get busy. The fish here can get big (4+lbs) but can be a bit hard to find.

My family and I recently visited and we had an amazing time. It was preety cold for us but then again we live in san diego and are spoiled by the sun most the year. Great trails, Great scenery lots of space for littles ones to explore.

I've been twice. Camping about 4 years ago, and a day visit with my kids last year. Beautiful each time, and good clean camp grounds with showers and toilets. Lots of hot springs about a 10 minute drive away, and amazing hiking spots as well.

This was our first time in the area. There’s a walking trail the circles the entire lake; it is a beautiful trail and I highly recommend! We did have to take our shoes off at one point and cross water, but it was easy, and fun to be honest.

The lake is nice though rather bearen. The story is an interesting one. Good place to visit if you are in the area.

Out of ordinary!Full course dinning out of nowhere. Awesome setup and service. Food needless to say.

We were treated by Steve and Tim. The chef made our Christmas night dinner memreblae.

Tottaly surprised by the reception.

What a gem of a lake. We hiked ALL THE WAY around the lake. We started on the north side of the lake as the trail there is in the sun and we wanted shade at the end of the hike.

This month we had to cross some streams but it was not bad and easily done. Beautiful views. Ages of hikers were from 11 to 72.

We did a quick stop here for some photography. It was easy to find parking and the paved trail was great. Grandma and the two year old found it very easy to walk. It was very pretty. There were even deer on the trail!

I do wish there were spots to dispose of fishing “trash” around the trail (some places I’ve been have little bins for this). We found a few fish hooks on the ground and there were lots of lines in trees. We had to walk back with the trash to throw it out at the designated trash bins (tough to do with the toddler!)

This part of our summer trip to Mammoth this year ended up being our teenage kids favorite. They have huge pontoon boats (with bbq's on board!) that you can take out half day or full day. The water was cold, but that doesn't keep kids from jump off boat the whole time and having a blast swimming! Lots of fishing if that's your thing. Big enough of a lake to spend lots of time by yourself on the water. The walks around the lake or beautiful, and flat if hiking hills is a challenge. Have seen deer and heard about a bear being on the far side, but we didn't see it ourselves!

There are incredible views of the pushed up mountains and rocks here. We went on the hike around the lake, but the rivers draining down into the lake prevented us from completing the hike, had to turn back. They should build a bridge over that area.

Such of great views, nice trails to walk on .. parking lot is kind of small, Other than that it’s a paradice

This is a small lake, in a beautiful setting, and only two miles off of US395. It's popular for fishing. There is a trail around the lake. I spent three nights at the campground there, which is spread out along a small creek. The sites are nice with tent platforms, tables, fire rings and bear boxes. Most are in the open with no shade and close enough to each other that you can hear your neighbors talking. Also, lots of motorhomes with generators running most of the day. There is a herd of deer that wander the campground, obviously comfortable around people. I also had visits from squirrels, chipmunks, birds and raccoons.

I had an amazing time at Convict Lake Resort. Stayed in Cabin #14 "Brook". The cabin was cozy and perfect for one person with a nice deck for relaxing after fishing. Everyone there was friendly and attentive. The restaurant was phenomenal. Fishing at the lake was good once I figured out the patterns. Anne at the general Store sold me on the place at the Sportsman's Expo and I am so glad I met her. Looking forward to booking another stay in the fall.

We have been to Convict Lake numerous times This time we returned, did a bit of fishing, and enjoyed the views. There is a nice shoreline walk. One can also rent boats. There is also a very good restaurant. There is also a lodge and campground.

Love this lake, been coming here for years. Really love the restaurant at Convict Lake. We have enjoyed horseback riding, staying in the rustic cabins, the nice house/cabins, rented boats, been snowed in, fished the lake- Convict is of our favorite places in E.S.

Loved the ample free parking. When we hit the end of road and parked we were not sure whether to head left or right towards marina. Glad we took off to the left as this flat paved surface afforded the most gorgeous views of mountains. We had excellent reflections of the mountains in the water then when the wind picked up saw an entirely different view. We hit snow near end of lake and because we didn’t have the right shoes on had to turn back. Lots of spots to sit and contemplate the beautiful scenery. Also was thrilled to see bathrooms available. We watched some extreme snow boarders hike up the mountain side to prepare for their snowboard back down.

The lake itself is not large, but it is pretty. The water is COLD - even in the height of summer. We rented a pontoon boat at the marina. The boat was pretty beat up, and the some of the seats were broken, but it was a last minute reservation during a holiday weekend. We went fishing, but caught nothing. We took our paddle boards and did that a bit. The lake is a no-wake lake, so it is pretty mellow. Worth a visit if you're in the area. They have a nice little restaurant and store.

My family and I hiked around the lake with our dog. Beautiful scenery and it is an easy hike. Took a couple of hours.

Beautiful views, nice trails to walk, portaRR were clean, fishing was good, and weather was fantastic.

Convect Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Sieras. It is aslo very popular so it is crowded even in the off season. The fishing is good at times and the hiking trails go all the way around the lake with some nice views.
This is what most people think of when you say High Siera lake.
There is a small day use area parking lot so go early or have patience if you go.

A Beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature. The view was amazing!!! You can also do camping, fishing, kayak, and boating.

One of the most picturesque spots in the eastern Sierra. Surrounded by mountain peaks on 3 sides, and used for fishing, camping, fine dining and general hiking and enjoyment, this is a must-see, if you haven't yet. Easy 1-mile drive up a canyon road from US395, there's also a spectacular creek that follows the road up to the lake, with great fishing as well. Serene and magnificent, offers boat rentals, bait and tackle in the summer, and occasional way station for seasonal horse drives as well. There's a pack station nearby, and loads of summer adventures just a short drive away.

Just popped in on the way home to LA. Gotta do it. 100% worth it! Lake was frozen, sky was stunning. It’s tiny but man, what a site!

There is a wonderful walking trail around Convict Lake, however, this past year's snowpack has saturated part of the trail but will recover, no doubt. Deer sighting is common and a large number of birds, local and migratory....

The lake is breathtaking. Easy 3 mile walk around the lake, about 1/4 is paved. The water color is amazing - so many shades of blue! Parking is easy, no entrance fee, just a few miles from town of Mammoth Lakes. Highly recommended!

I use to come to this beautiful lake when I was a kid and revisited and camped here recently with my son. HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT ! The scenery is gorgeous but not that they allow the pontoon boats on this lake it is horrible. When we were there they rented a pontoon boat and two motor boats to some teenagers and they were racing around the lake chasing each other and screaming so much we stopped fishing because they were so noisy and the waves were making us sick. To top it off some teenagers running club was there and my son and I almost got trampled as 5 of them were running the hiking trail. If you want peace and quiet and relaxation this is not the place for you. It is over developed and over crowded. Best part of our trip was camp space #52. Best spot in the campgrounds.

We went for a nice relaxing hike around the lake Sunday morning it wasn't too busy and not strenuous it was a pleasant hike around the lake. Nice views and nice hiking trail.

We took a day long driving tour and this lake was on our stop. It had a mountain background but no big pine trees. Many people were camping and using the lake.

We hiked around the trail with our 8 year old and 4 year old. It was a bit tricky in some locations due to so much water. But we had a wonderful morning!

My husband and I went to Convict Lake and we were amazed by its beauty. We went for a hiking. The trail is easy and well planned. We took 2h20 walk to make the full circle of the lake. The views are breathtaking!!

Convict Lake is a 15 minute trip from Mammoth Lakes. It is kid and dog friendly. The views are magnificent!

Went in October with my parents. The trail around the lake is pleasant and easy to navigate. The fall colors around the lake were tremendous and reflect off the water beautifully. At the back end of the lake, there's a large aspen grove that was completely yellow at the time. In the afternoon, the lake is shaded but the view out into the sunlight valley is spectacular

Convict lake is easy to get to. It was super windy on the day we visited. I noticed wonderful paved walking paths that would be excellent for families or elderly.

This place is amazing. If you are going to rent a boat make sure you do it before you go. We rented ours 2 weeks out and there were sold out. We have teens and they all actually had a great time. The boats are clean and they have a grill. The staff was so awesome also. We are going back soon.

Crowded because it was Father's Day weekend but there was plenty of good cheer amongst the hikers. There wasn't much beach because the water level is so high but it was still a good adventure. The views are worth the effort.

A short drive from mammoth lakes is convict lake - it is beautiful and peaceful. A nice place for a picnic. The only reason i am not giving it 5 stars is that some of the locations close to the lake can have some thrash left by visitors. Lots of people come there to sit around and fish - hope they would clean up better after themselves.

Every time I drive to Mammoth I turn off the highway and stop at Convict Lake. I have gone running there with my dog Winston during the summer months and hiked around the snow in the winter. The best part is after the lake... you can have dinner at the Restaurant at Convict Lake (best banana foster EVER!)

We stopped here for lunch while touring the Eastern Sierras. Although the sun was out, but with the wind and the cool temperature the weather was brisk. There are tables along a road along parts of the lake and we noted a few visitors fishing and enjoying the views and the Sierras. Not many visitors, so quiet, restful. Parking is convenient and the road is a good walking path. This is most likely a fishing spot for the Ospreys that nest at nearby Mono Lake.

We finally got to bring our kids here. Both my husband and I grew up in Southern California, but our kids have grown up in Seattle. We are around water and beautiful surroundings daily - however there is something magical about Convict. Rent a boat and go fishing, you won’t regret it :)

Went there twice - once in winter (over Thanksgiving weekend) and once in May (over Memorial Day weekend). It was gorgeous in Winter, just a little too chilly to enjoy a good hike. But in summer, IMO, it was not as pretty, and a bit crowded, which is not surprising, given how accessible it is.

very easy to access from road 395, don't miss it if you pass by, a very peaceful and beautiful lake, but as its name, the lake has a bloody story as below.
1871年9月23日，一群囚犯从内华达州卡森市的监狱逃出来，并在湖附近避难。他们被一群警察追捕，在警察追上罪犯之后，随后发生了枪战，警察和罪犯都被打死或打伤。其余的犯人被抓获，最终被私刑处死。

Two of my children gave been to Europe twice and their favorite place was Switzerland, due to the lakes and mountains, but they said Convict Lake was even prettier. When the time comes, bury me there.

View the back side of the mountain without any trees to obstruct your view. You can hike around the lake, fish or just sit and take in the view

Really stunning lake with an easy to navigate circular walk around it. We visited on a weekend in September. It wasnt too busy, there were tourists and locals there, it had a really lovely feel to it. One of my favourite places in Mammouth

Spent an afternoon here with the kids fishing and hiking around the lake. The scenery is beautiful and the fishing was "ok". They also rent boats if you want to get out on the lake and they have a general store for all your needs while you are there. It's a nice place to visit if you want to get outside of Mammoth city limits and stay close by.

We came her twice during our stay in the Mammoth. Thursday late afternoon, there was enough parking. Not a lot of people around. We got to enjoy a short hike around the trail of the lake without having to worry about crowds. We went back on a Sunday midday and the place was more crowded. Parking was difficult to find. There are still areas around the lake that you can socially distance yourself and enjoy the water.
This is a very picturesque lake. I definitely think it’s worth a visit if you are in the area. They have a marina for boat rentals. I saw a lot of fishing going on and people seemed to enjoy swimming in the lake although for me the water was a tad bit too cold.

To us that was the most enjoyable lake around. You can walk around the lake loop. The fishing is popular. There are boats

This is one of the most scenic spots in the area, and it is so easy to get to. There is an easy hiking trail around the lake that takes in all the views. There are great cabins for rent along with a little store for food and fishing stuff. The restaurant is fabulous. The fishing is great too both in the lake and the little steam that exits the lake by the paved road.

Easy to get to, well maintained trails. Difficult to access the lake shore area. Views are fantastic

What a beautiful lake, walked around, looked at all the beautiful scenery. Next time I would really like to go fishing there.

Great spot to spend an hour or full day. Me and my girlfriend drove here from Mammoth Lakes early one morning and just took in the beautiful view. There were people fishing and the water was so clear you could see the fish swimming. Perfect for a drive or a day trip

Set 2 miles back from CA395, Convict Lake is backdropped by the Eastern Sierras and Laurel Mountain. In addition to the highly regarded lodge, there is hiking and, when conditions are right, outstanding photography. Depending on your location, the wind, angle of the sun, you can get great reflections and colors. If you are passing through the area, it's worth a stop.

Really nice setting just outside of Mammoth. Boat dock provides kayaks and motorboats. Mountains surrounding lake are very pretty. Family friendly as well.

Convict Lake Restaurant is known for excellent food at a high price. I would recommend it for special occasions and romantic dates.
The owners are present and will come by your table to welcome you and thank you for your business.
The western bar is excellent and don't be surprised if you see deer or bears on the lawn.
Great spot for wedding receptions and New Years Eve.

The Mammoth Lakes are prettier if you are sightseeing, but Convict is apparently better for the avid fisherman

This lake is larger than it looks. Great fishing or just puttering around. There is a nice easy trail around the lake for the hikers. The views are spectacular especially in the AM. If you rent a boat, the boat house crew folks are friendly and helpful. We will be going back. Thanks to Jose!!!!

pretty and a nice day trip - very close to Mammoth. Walk around the lake and read about the history.

Bring water, a camera, and a picnic if you must. If you love nature this is a beautiful place to enjoy it. Bring your own kayak, canoe, or boat because there’s only a marina to launch them, no place to rent. There ARE restrooms and paved roads/trails for part of the walk.

Convict lake is so beautiful and majestic. The crisp cool waters are pure and full of different types of trout.

On the day we visited it was both sunny and overcast with a surprise shower of rain. It wasn’t too crowded but there were a few quiet fishermen and the fish WERE biting that day.

I love visiting natural places but also historically significant places. Besides being a gorgeous 2.5- 3 mile easy hike, this place also holds a rich history.

“The lake, known to the Paiute as Wit-sa-nap, was renamed by white settlers after an incident on September 23, 1871, wherein a group of convicts escaped from prison in Carson City, Nevada. A posse from Benton, California, led by Deputy Sheriff George Hightower, encountered the convicts near the head of what is now Convict Creek. Posse member Robert Morrison, a Benton merchant and Wells Fargo agent, was killed in the encounter, and Mount Morrison was named after him.

Lake Convict is a great lake to hike around. It offers amazing opportunities for pictures of the trees(one I took has a place near my desk where I post pictures which are important to me), Recommend this destination.

PLEASE READ - Writing this to inform campers that there is MINIMAL to NO PHONE RECEPTION and there are NO CAMP RANGERS on site. There is literally no security to call for help with Emergencies. I found myself in an unsafe situation with the person I was camping with and there was no one around at night to help me when the person I was with became belligerent and violent. Without ANY phone reception I was not able to call the police when I needed help. I had to wait until the next morning when convenient store which was located on-site had opened, so that I could use there telephone to make phone calls. One older woman who worked there was very sympathetic and let me use their phone, while another woman who worked there was very rude about the entire situation. I tried to explain that it was an emergency and I was calling a family member to come pick me up and explained that I had a horrible and fearful night while trying to stay safe until the store opened. Needless to stay their landline saved me. I was able to reach someone to come pick me up from my nightmare of a camping trip. Other than that, it is a beautiful campground and lake to visit. Just be aware of the lack of help incase there is an emergency.

We enjoyed the three mile walk around Convict Lake. Beautiful! There are three places to park and enter, but the trail is a loop so it doesn't matter where you pick it up.

This little lake paradise can’t be seen from the highway so you have to pull off and check it out. The lake itself is quite small but the backdrop is jaw-dropping and you really have to see it to believe it.

We are so glad we made the detour. You can kayak, paddle board or fish the lake and it’s shoreline has the best skimming stones you’ll ever find.

Went to Lake to fish the morning. Wanted to fish the upper creek, but not enough water flow. Came back to lake and did get one nice rainbow on a plastic jig from south shore. When I left parking was full, and I did not find a fish cleaning area. Beautiful lake, but way too many people for my liking. A guy on a surfboard kept going right over where people were fishing, seemed very odd to me.

Ok...the lake is gorgeous...but the restaurant is amazing. Make reservations. Loved the trout and the table side preparation of the Bananas Foster!

Just a few minutes off of the highway, you will find a phenomenally gorgeous lake. Nice trail around it too.

A stunning gem, just off the highway so quiet and peaceful. Toilets clean and plenty of parking viewing the lake

This is a perfect day hike that is accessible to almost anyone. If you circle the lake, you'll find the route relatively level with great views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Convict Creek flows into the lake on the western end. Currently the creek is running pretty high so crossing can be a slight challenge. Either you walk through and get your shoes wet or take of your shoes and wade through...or just turn around.

Also on the western end is a trailhead to Mildred Lake. It's a nice gradual climb that gives you clear views of Convict Lake and up to a small snow field that you can see from the lake.

It's about one hour around the lake, depending on your pace.

I have been here many times and the favorite is summer. You can take a very easy hike around the lake which is just beautiful. If you want a challenge, you can hike up the path at the south end and go as high as you want. Great people all around on the trails doing the same. Highly recommended.

This is a gorgeous lake for a stroll if you're on the 395 corridor (is 3 miles around, about, plenty of parking, dogs allowed). We want to try the restaurant sometime!

Well worth the scary drive to get to this lake. The surrounding mountainous views from convict lake are breathtaking as well. All of Mammoth Mountain is gorgeous!

Its just a few (4 or so) miles south of the 395 exit for Mammoth Lakes. Drive up into the mountains a couple of miles and there it is. Beautiful setting for viewing, fishing, a picnic or camping. Worth the trip off 395 if you are in the area.

Great rainbow fishing activity. Park at the end of road, walk down, water quality is amazing, big drop off.. Wanted to jump in, but just too many people fishing to bother them.

My husband and I went to this spot since it highly praised for obvious reasons. Sorry to say we couldn't get around the whole lake due to time but it was indeed lovely!

I've stopped at Convict Lake many times during different seasons and there's always something new to see. Fall offers gorgeous colors on the aspen trees, winter has snow-covered peaks around the lake, and stopping in spring is beautiful too. I haven't fished there though I hear it's very good and there are usually lots of people fishing there. Good hiking around the lake too. I usually just make the short drive up from Highway 395 to take in the scenery, and if that's all you want to do or all you have time for (shouldn't take more than a half hour), it's well worthwhile any time of year.

Convict Lake is an enjoyable short jaunt off US 395 south of Mammoth Lakes. You can drive right up to the lakeshore for sweeping views of the lake and beyond to the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada. There is a trail you can also hike around the lake if you are interested. Definitely worth the stop!

We visited Convict Lake during our Mammoth Lakes stay. The lake is smaller, is very quiet, and is quite beautiful. There is a short,.3 mile, trail one can walk along one side of the lake. What was also very cool was there were info stops along the path going over the history of the lake etc.

We visited around the last weekend of October this year. We were kind of late by 1 week to enjoy the peak of the fall colors around this lake but still it was amazing view.

With all the Lakes the camps from the mammoth Mountain's to Yosemite to Bridgeport this lake is not a good choice.. yes there's very good fishing here but this place is always windy Camp spots are not within the pine trees. mostly like brush & bush if hiking's your thing I guess this would be okay.. The lake is gorgeous the water is clear but from a camping experience this is not a good the lake.. I saw about a seven pound trout caught out of the river/stream coming out of the lake by the camp area. but very obvious it was just planted within a few days ago.. they are hundreds of other camps areas off 395, many more are situated for better camping in the pine trees with crystal clear waters. Take the extra time head north on 395..

Getting here is a quick jaunt from the highway on a well maintained paved road. There seemed to be quite a lot of parking, though it wasn't busy when we arrived.

The trail around the lake is well groomed / used and was refreshing and enjoyable. There were plenty of places to fish and there were boat and kayak rentals available. (Kayaks seemed a bit expensive though). Scenery is outstanding, the lake was crystal clear.

We took a day trip to see Convict Lake. Parking was easy and the lake was a short walk away. The water is beautiful and the vista can't be beat.

Visited after a day of skiing. Read reviews & decided to go & rent a pontoon. Have to admit, the entrance had “tourist trap” written ALL OVER it. While I was concerned, it did not disappoint. My son & I ran around the lake-so scenic! Ken helped us with docking-what a great personality! The experience was a highlight! The scenery was breathtaking (as well as the water temps).

The view doesn’t get much better than this!
Fish from the shore, tube, or boat. Fish the creek. It’s all great!
If you have time be sure to eat at the Convict Lake Restaurant. A hidden gem!

If you are anywhere near Convict Lake, plan to spend a day. There are numerous outdoor activities and one of the best restaurants in the Eastern Sierras.

We always enjoy hiking around the lake, however this year the steam feeding the lake had a new channel negating the boardwalk, making it impossible to circle the lake.

Horseback riding along the northern side of the lake provides some of the most scenic views available anywhere. And there are all type of boats to rent including pontoon boats with BBQs for the party crowd.

We return to Convict Lake year after year always to our enjoyment...

This is a beautiful lake and a must see when ever you head towards Mammoth..
The water is crisp and clean and very blue, great fishing as well.

Convict Lake is an amazing lake for hiking and fishing. There is a walking trail around the lake. We only caught one fish but turned it loose. The mountains surrounding the lake are beautiful. We were there on Memorial week-end so it was really crowded. Parking is at a premium so go early! There is a restaurant but we didn't go there.
This was our second stay at Convict Lake Campground. Some of the sites are very small leaving room for just a tent. Our site had enough room for our truck and boat. We saw 5 deer sleeping in the camp hosts' site. The campground is really big. There are sites that are closer to the lake and others that are along a stream. It is a great hike from one end of the campground to the other. The boat launch is free. The RV dump is free. Very spotty reception for AT&T customers.

We went here early one morning for sunrise pictures. In the fall at least there is a good reflection of the mountain on the lake. I was surprised at how many people there were fishing at 7:0 in the morning. There is a nice loop to walk around the lake. There is even a dock for fishing that is handicap accessible. Evidently this is also a popular spot for weddings.

Loved the place. A very charming lake. Would have loved to spend more time if we were not in a hurry.

This is a must see if you are in the Mammoth Lakes area. What a pristine, majestic view. The snow ran right down to the water's edge. You can even walk on a nice path all the way around the lake. A great picnic & fishing spot.

Located a few minutes of easy driving from the highway, this beautiful lake takes its name from a shootout that happened in the 1800s when escaped convicts were tracked down in the area.

The mountain scenery surrounding the lake is spectacular and there are both easy and more challenging hiking trails. There is also fishing and boating in the warmer months. This is a good place for kids too.

My favorite of the lakes. We walked it twice around at different times of the day to get different light & perspective for photos. Love the Aspen grove at the far end of the lake. Very interesting history as to how such a beautiful lake got its name .

Nice easy walk around the most of the lake. Not so scenic and colorful like I have seen in pictures. It might have been during the time of year we went. But was a little disappointed.

We took advantage of our jet-lagged early rise to drive here from Mammoth Lakes and watch the sun rise. It was so very beautiful and serene, definitely a stand-out memory from our road trip.

Awesome place made most memorable with the young couple's wedding ceremony a few weeks back. What a wonderful venue!

If the weather's good - I'd rate it excellent. It was too windy to walk around the lake, but it looked like a nice trail. The geology in the area is amazing. Interesting story about how it got named (convicts shot the sheriff who the mountain behind the lake is named after),

A must see when you visit Mammoth. It is so beautiful, with great hiking trails. Make sure you hike to the back of the lake. Not to be missed!

The hike around convict lake is an easy stroll (we did it with an infant) with spectacular views. Stopped for lunch on the shore near the parking area on the way back. Don't miss if you're in the Mammoth Lakes area.

My wife and I visited Mammoth Lakes for a few days recently and when we popped into Mammoth visitors centre find out what was open/accessible nearby we were told about Convict Lake and how beautiful it is. So we added this to our list of places to visit and headed off.

Convict lake is easy to find off the 395 heading north at Mammoth Yosemite airport junction and heading south, access the lake from the right turn off from the 395, it’s about two miles further on. On arrival we were both stunned by the spectacular scenery, the jaw dropping landscape is very picturesque, the steep mountain sides are reflected beautifully off the surface of the lake on a clear sunny day. The parking area at the lakeside is limited, however we were able to find a spot eventually and it was quite busy the day we visited.

We parked up and headed off on the 3 mile hike around the lake Perimeter which took us just over an hour to complete, it was baking hot so be prepared in the summer. You can hire out boats to take out on the lake for full or half a day, I would loved to have done this on the day we visited as it was such a nice day but we didn’t have enough time. There is also a couple of longer hiking trails around the lake - 3 miles was enough for us in the blazing sun.

This is a must see lake if you’re in the area!

The mountAins are the backdrop and it's just gorgeous. The water is crystal clear. It was chilly in August.

Spent a couple hours there trail walking. The weather was so nice , trail was easy and clear signed. Beautiful view. Plenty of parking spots, you can do fishing too ( even with the wheelchair). After trail walking, we stopped the gift shop and restaurant there. We ordered pull pork sandwich and pull pork on bed roll fried, absolutely yummy.

We dropped by Convict Lake during our Mammoth stay. Found parking spot and hiked down to shore and enjoyed a wonderful time eating our packed lunch and reading and just enjoying the beautiful view of the lake and surrounding mountains. The guy next to us was catching quite a number of fish with night crawlers and "power bait".

We went in the morning around 7. The lake was very clear, still and the sun was just beginning to come over the mountains. It is an easy loop hike around the lake. The creeks and wet areas on the trail were just beginning to freeze for the winter and the icicles glistened on the areas where ice was starting to build. The view of the peaks and the valleys between were breathtaking. Honestly we could not have picked a more perfect beautiful morning hike. Well ... it would have been nice to have seen a bear. But that can also have drawbacks!! 😎

If you want a pleasant hike and see the fall colors in October this is a very easy hike with lots of Aspens on one end of the lake.

Very pretty. Nice loop trail hike, While it was relatively easy, some of the trail was washed out with a stream and required crossing some waters. There is a nice little beach halfway across the lake that was perfect for my kids to snack and rest a little bit.

I am not much of a fan of fishing, but I spent a really fun day here, fishing with friends. We all caught fish, which made for a great dinner that night.

Convict Lake is absolutely beautiful! We have been coming up to the Mammoth area for 36 years and we never tire of going to Convict! There are picnic tables near the lake. The campground is nice but usually filled in the summer. Fishing not very dependable, can be slow. A good hike is to continue past the inlet of the creek, that way you can get away from some of the crowds.

This lake is just amazing. The experience you share with nature is outstanding.
The view itself is already worthy but if you take the time to hike the trail you will be amazed of the beauty of the area
They offer one short and easy trail (around 3mi) around the lake or a longer moderate one to nearby lake (around 7mi)
They offer restrooms at the entrance

Go early to shoot here. Most were set up in the dark for a fall shoot. It is always beautiful, but has gotten more and more crowded over the years. Continue down the path and park yourself right at the waters edge to avoid tripods in your shot

The sign at the highway for turning to lake may easy to miss. it took around 10 mins to the lake parking lot. The place was peaceful and beautiful. It is not well-known for visitor but it is worth to see it. In summer they have lake rental for water fun. I love the view. You can visit this place after or before you get to Hot Springs which is across from other side of highway.

It is a short drive up the canyon to Convict Lake, where there is parking next to the lake. I am no longer much of a hiker, but I enjoy bird watching and photography by the bridge, creek, and lake. You can fish here in season, or grab a cup of coffee down the road from the lake at the camping area and general store.

Easy stroll round picturesque lake.Well marked lakeside path,close to waters edge.Excellent access for bank side fishermen.Good bird spotting opportunity and lots of butterflies.Plenty of car parking space.Only downside,had to ford freezing cold meltwater stream as boardwalk washed away and not brave enough to use replacement tree trunk.

Absolute amazing place. A must visit when in the area. Great views across the lake and easily accessible.

Very nice lake! Not that far from the main highway. We did the walk around the lake 2.5 mile and stopped in a spot to relax and splash in the water. Very beautiful. Kids enjoyed the hike as well. Would recommend highly for families. And you can see lot of fishes near the bridge as well.

Got to ride a boat on convict lake. What an amazing experience. Dock the boat at the other end of the lake. There are some beautiful streams flowing under the boardwalk. The mountains around the lake stand mighty and tall. Great views of tiny waterfalls lining the mountains. Truly awesome.

At the advice of a ranger at the local station, and armed with a hand-marked photocopy of a map, I set out to find both Convict Lake and the almost-adjacent Hot Springs. It was not too far from Mammoth Lakes, and the short drive off the highway suddenly landed me at a hidden drive for the hike along the rim of an extinct volcano.The parking itself is ingenious - leads to a little extra walking, but if you're going for the hike, that shouldn't bother you. The drive completely blends in with the rolling hills, and the parking areas are sunken in, so no parking lot sticks out against the landscape. I went middle of April, and the weather was perfect - neither too hot nor too cold, and likewise there were not very many people out. While there was snow on parts of the trail, a light windbreaker was sufficient for warmth. Plan easily an hour for the light hike around the rim of the lake. (Especially if you're like me and enjoy taking pictures or just gazing at the beauty of nature.) Kudos to the forest ranger; this completely unplanned stop became the highlight of my entire week-long trip. There were birds and small ground animals about, the boardwalk section of the trail afforded close - up views of the lake and marsh, the sky was clear, and there was a slight breeze - it was amazing. (And if you're interested in the lake's name, there's a story in itself that the rangers can also tell you.)

We spent an afternoon fishing here on our first day of our annual family fishing trip. We arrived about 7:00 AM, packed up the kids and gear, and headed out on the trail on the south east side of the lake. Our destination was the extreme south western end so that we could fish by the creek inlets.

The day couldn't have been better - warm but not hot, light breeze, and a day out with family. The trail is an up and down affair so small children will need to be carried. It's also a bit narrow so be courteous and yield the right of way. The hike leads completely around the lake so you can hike, stop and fish, or take photos. This is an especially beautiful area if you're a photographer. The aspens on the south western end of the lake provide an amazing show of color during fall.

Get their early as parking can be a trick. This is a popular hiking and fishing destination so if you're not early, be prepared to wait for a space. Restrooms are acceptable.

Caught in a snow storm, while walking one of the trails. So beautiful, I just kept going. Be prepared in winter you never know when it's going to snow.

We hiked around the lake over memorial weekend. We got there at around 9am and found parking without any issues. The lake was very clean and so clear you could see the fish swimming around the shoreline from the trail. We took the trail clockwise. The first half of the trail had some nice shade, however the second half was pretty much full sun. I’m retrospect I would have gone counter clockwise to avoid the full heat of the sun since we were there relatively early. It took us a couple hours to walk all the way around about 2.5 miles taking our time and taking lots of photos. By the time we left it was getting a little too crowded for my liking so go early if your going during a holiday or weekend. Also just be aware most of the restrooms were closed.

Nice off the beaten path lake. It’s such a beautiful setting with the colorful mountains all around it. Definitely worth an afternoon to relax or jump in the lake for an adventure.

We were there couple of times before . Every time we came here it is just beautiful. 15 mins drive from mammoth lakes is a must . The fall color is nice along the lake shore . Sun rise is beautiful . Any time of year or day it is just beautiful.

Another beautiful location in the Mammoth Lakes area. We had a nice 10 day road trip planned and we had never been to this part of the country before. We were only in this area for 3 days, the next time will be longer. The lake is beautiful but a little crowded on the weekend. We come back on Monday and it wasn't as bad people wise.

This lake has been in many movies, including "How the West Was Won" where you can see Jimmy Stewart paddling along its shore. But quite frankly, this is one of the most beautiful lakes that is so easy to access. It's just 2 miles off of Highway 395. And it is only about 8 miles south of Mammoth Lakes (one of our favorite places on earth). We always hike around this lake as our first hike because it's so easy and it's only 2.5 miles as a loop, and the photos that you'll get will be stunning. There's a restaurant at Convict Lake, some cabins, a grocery store, camping sites, etc., horseback riding, and boat and kayak rentals. So you've got to check out this lake. We simply love it and visit it each time we say in Mammoth Lakes.

Sooooooo beautiful.
The walk around the lake is a little muddy when the snow melts but it is beautiful.

We started with the two mile hike around Convict Lake - beautiful and not too strenuous. We followed that with a few hours of kayaking. We brought our own kayak and launched it from the beach area that had picnic tables and restrooms close by. A totally great place to spend the day!!!

Don't pass this one by! Great photo op. The water was so blue and the Aspens were in full color while we were there! Such a hidden gem!

We had good time at the lake. Lots of fisherman and plenty of photo opportunity. Lake loop hike was great. Highly recommend it if you are in the area.

Lake setting is great, has camp grounds & cabins for rent, a little store with a small kitchen that offers hamburger & hot dogs, has another nice restaurant on-site, even offers showers for the tent campers. Fishing for me is always great, no matter how unlucky I've been elsewhere, I can always catch fish at Convict. There is also a nice hiking trail going around the lake. Another plus, has flush toilets around the lake. No cellphone service.

Peaceful. Relaxing. Sun was out. Mountains were beautifully covered with snow. Lots of picture-taking opportunities.

Beautiful visit here. Walked around the lake. Didn’t realise they hire out boats until we got there, sadly they were all booked but looked like fun. Beautiful scenery. Tranquil location. Free parking. Dog walkers around the place. Loved it.

My husband and I arrived approximately 20 minutes before the restaurant opened for dinner. We were totally ignored at first by this gentleman. Once he pretended to notice us, he asked if we had dinner reservations at 5:30 on Sunday evening which we did not. No one else was in the establishment. He then proceeded to let us know that dinner would not be served until 5:30 pm. That was fine with us, but he made a big deal about the fact that we didn't have reservations. He did NOT even invite us to sit down in the bar area, order a drink and wait for a few more minutes before we could be seated for our dinner. We left and decided that his snotty attitude was not worth of price of anything he might have offered to us. We had eaten at this same place in June of 2017 and were pleased. However, we don't cater to uppity little twits who think they are better than us. Shame on him and his unfriendly mannerisms. Trust me, we won't be back even if the meal was free of charge. There's plenty of other fine dining places in the Sierra's that are more than willing to be friendly, polite and welcome a couple to dine in their establishment like Carson Peak Inn in June Lake or the Double Eagle near Silver Lake along the June Lake Loop.

Very beautiful place to be. We did not hike all around the Lake but we did take lots of pictures. They do offer boat rental for fishing and the camping is very closed by. Best if you go early in the morning around 9 – 10 am for pictures when the sun is bright white.

Very beautiful lake. We parked for free and easily reached the waterfront with our baby on the stroller for some really nice pictures. We did not go around it so I cannot comment on the trail, but I can imagine it is worth doing it to enjoy that quiet and more stunning views..

We had a great time spending a whole afternoon here with the family. We were fortunate to find parking and a nice spot under a shady tree in front of the lake. We fished here for hours, with no catch. But, we had a great time enjoying the view and playing in the water.

This is a tricky campground to review because it has a few campsites that are spectacular, as good as it gets (5 stars), and a few that are horrendous (1 star). There are a few campsites that are right on the creek so your picnic, cooking, and tent area are completely shaded in greenery with a lovely mist and sounds from the creek. Feels 10 to 15 degrees cooler in these little oasis sites. Some sites are away from the creek and your whole site is exposed to the brutal, relentless desert sun from sunup to sundown, so if you have one of these sites, plan on rising early and not returning to your site until after 7pm. The bathrooms could use upgrading. The flush toilets available used to be adequate 20 years ago when this campground was relatively empty. These days, with it being full to capacity, the bathrooms can get overused and lines can actually form. There are not many water spigots around either. If you cannot get a Creekside campsite, I'd look elsewhere.

Come here everything around the end of September or beginning of fall, but the leaves always look light green or light yellow

If you are looking for a beautiful, easy hike in Mammoth, check out Convoct Lake, just 20 minute drive from Mammoth. Pack a light picnic, or stop at the little shop by the restaurant for snacks. The hike is about 2 miles around the lake. Not steep, easy for children and older adults. Make sure you bring lots of bug spray in the summertime. Beautiful day at Convict Lake.

Absolutely Beautiful! Quiet, clear blue water, fish, boating, relaxing. Wonderful experience, easy drive with plenty of parking.

Convict Lake is a very quaint and small lake on the way up to Mammoth Lakes! I stop to get off the road after a long drive to just relax and listen to the sound of the water flow out of lake. I hiked the little around the lake it was very beautiful and relaxing! I hear there is a bit of a waterfall at the far end of a lake unfortunately I didn't make it all the way out there to see. Other than that there is also a small marina out with some boats to rent pontoon boats, kayaks and more!

Easy to visit and nice walk in one side of the lake. Rental of boats and kayaks. Nice little marina and plenty of parking. There are interpretative signs along the walk.

A beautiful place for some gentle hiking in mammoth lakes. The trail around the lake is about 5 miles and suitable for most abilities.

Great place to stay or camp especially in the fall when the aspens change color. Days in October are pleasant at 65-75 degrees but it gets very cold st night in the 20’s. Very busy in summer with fishermen and tourists. The lodge is quaint but I have never stayed there

Great experience, went by with some friends, good wheater in August. Cool place to chill and enjoy the scenario. Good water temperature to swim although gets quite cold after sunset.

Convict Lake is a beautiful little lake surrounded by mountains. It has a great trail loop around the lake and makes for a beautiful easy 3 mile walk. I walked it early one morning with my dog and definitely plan on doing it again before we leave Mammoth Lakes.

This Lake is in a magnificent, nearly breath taking setting. We enjoyed stopping here to take in the beauty of the location.

Unfortunately, it was very busy on the Saturday we visited and it was difficult to find a parking place. And dogs....everywhere it seemed ..... on and off leash....diminished the experience of what used to be a serene, relaxing spot.

We went for our Anniversary and had the best time! We ate dinner at the restaurant every night we were there. It was absolutely 5 star food with 5 star service. Steve, our bartender and server was amazing. We can't wait to go back.

Beautiful little lap around the lake. Relatively flat and easy going. Inlet has overrun the bridge at the west end of the lake, so a bit of wading is required. NW side of the lake gets the afternoon sun and can get warm.

We visited Convict Lake twice while we were in Mammoth. Once was to do the hike. It’s an easy loop around the take. Then, two days later we returned and rented a pontoon for three hours. The backdrop makes it stand out from the other lakes. Their pontoons come equipped with a gas grill. Please make a reservation in advance or else they will most likely be booked. You can cancel 24 hours in advance if needed.