June Lake Beach introduced a new parking fee in April: $10 per vehicle, with a $50 seasonal pass available. This change has sparked mixed reactions among locals and tourists. Some see it as a necessary step to preserve the natural beauty of the area amidst increasing visitor numbers, while others lament the end of free access to this beloved spot.
Regardless, the fee signals a shift in balancing preservation and accessibility, reminding visitors that enjoying paradise sometimes comes with a price tag. Whether it deters or simply becomes a part of the cost of a day at the beach remains to be seen, but the allure of June Lake’s serene shores remains as strong as ever.
What do YOU think, faithful reader?
Hours of operation:
Day Use only (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM).
Parking lot opens for vehicles at 8:00 AM. From April 26 – May 27, gate closes at 8:00 PM. From May 28 – September 2, gate closes at 9:00 PM. From September 3 – 16, gate closes at 8:00 PM. From September 17 – October 13, gate closes at 7:00 PM.
Please pay at kiosk.
$50 annual seasonal pass available for purchase at entrance kiosk. Annual interagency passes (America the Beautiful Pass, Golden Access, Golden Age) not accepted.
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I think it’s a good idea with the increased tourist base that continues to climb since it is one of the 2 areas that have a nice beach. But I also feel that locals should pay a SMALL ONE TIME fee or NO fee and get a tag for their vehicles since a lot of them also use the area and a lot of us clean up the tourists trash.
Are they really going to improve the highway and provide other public service IE rangers, trail work? Do residents of the loop have to Pay?
$10 seems fine for visitors, but I’d like to see a lower rate for local Eastern Sierra residents, say $5.
I agree with the fee. I have come up every summer to fish and hike since 1968. The trash and litter has been terrible. if people would just pick-up after themselves, “leave no trace” This goes for the whole loop area ae well. The area residents should have free access with proof of residency.