The Ultimate Road Trip Destination for Camper Van Travelers
For outdoor enthusiasts, climbers, and free-spirited adventurers, California’s Buttermilk Country is a dreamland of rugged beauty and endless recreation. Nestled just 13 miles west of Bishop on the Eastern Sierra slopes, this iconic destination is a highlight for anyone exploring in a camper van rental in Southern California.
Whether you’re starting your journey with a camper van rental in San Diego or further up the coast, Buttermilk Country belongs on your must-see list. Famed for its breathtaking vistas, glacial boulders, and wide-open public lands perfect for wild camping, the Buttermilks provide a unique mix of serenity and adrenaline for every kind of traveler.
A Legendary Landscape Carved by Ice and Time
The Buttermilk Recreation Area is part of Inyo County—home to both Death Valley and Mount Whitney, the lowest and highest points in the continental U.S. Over two million years ago, massive glaciers scattered the land with colossal boulders known as glacial erratics, turning the high desert into a world-class bouldering playground.
If you’re exploring with a camper van rental from San Diego or Southern California, the Buttermilks are an ideal spot to park for the night and wake up to golden sunrises over snow-capped Sierra peaks.
Why “The Buttermilks”?
Local folklore says dairy trucks once bumped their way down the washboard roads, churning milk into buttermilk by the time they arrived in Bishop. Though the dairy trucks are long gone, the area’s charm remains, attracting climbers, hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone seeking the freedom of off-grid camping under the stars.
A Year-Round Adventure Playground
Thanks to its high desert location, Buttermilk Country offers pleasant conditions in all seasons. Winter and summer visitors might spot Round Valley mule deer wandering among the brush, while climbers tackle everything from the V0 Hero Roof to the notoriously tough Soul Slinger (V9). Even if you’re just starting out, there’s a climb for every skill level—but be warned: these boulders are not your average gym walls.
Don’t forget your crash pad, chalk, and climbing tape—the coarse quartz monzonite will humble even seasoned hands.
Beyond the Boulders
Not into climbing? No problem. The Buttermilk Country Loop offers an unforgettable off-road route for mountain bikers, hikers, and sightseers. Even from behind the wheel of your Southern California camper van rental, you’ll catch sweeping views of valleys, waterfalls, and jagged peaks without stepping outside. But if you do, you’ll find trails and views that will stay with you long after the dust washes off your boots.
The Freedom to Camp Wild
One of the biggest draws for van lifers is the ability to camp freely beneath the stars. Buttermilk Country is a hotspot for wild camping, with no reservations required and free access year-round. Just bring your essentials, pack out everything you pack in, and grab a campfire permit if you plan to build a fire.
Whether you’re renting a camper van in San Diego to start your journey or hitting the road from elsewhere in Southern California, Buttermilk Country is the perfect destination for those seeking remote beauty, climbing thrills, and the pure joy of life on the road.
