About June Lake

June Lake is a census-designated place in Mono County, California. It is located against the southern rim of the Mono Basin, 12.5 miles (20 km) south of Lee Vining, at an elevation of 7654 feet (2333 m).

The majority of the developed community is spread narrowly along a five-mile stretch of California State Route 158., which is also known as the June Lake Loop Road, or in the populated areas, Boulder Drive. The Mono County Community Development Department defines June Lake's planning area to encompass the entire June Lake Loop, including the section of U.S. Route 395 between the north and south junctions of the Loop Road.

The June Lake Loop is situated against the west rim of the Great Basin and Range Province, abutting the steep eastern escarpment of the Sierra Nevada. Rush Creek originates from an alpine watershed just north of the headwaters of the San Joaquin River, and south of the Tuolumne River, then flows northeast, becoming the major tributary to the great inland sea, Mono Lake.

June Lake's looped valley, often described as a horseshoe-shaped canyon, was formed by glacial action. The Rush Creek glacier split in two when it encountered the resistant rock of what is now known as Reversed Peak. The main glacier flowed toward the north creating the Rush Creek Canyon. Another glacial branch turned south and east but its flow was impeded and eventually stopped as the granitic bedrock on this southern branch created an uphill path toward the volcanic area of the Mono Craters. When the glacier receded it left behind terminal moraine material in the area now known as Oh! Ridge.

The June Lake Loop has been attracting people such as fishermen, hunters, and hikers since the 19th century. Its first inhabitants were the Paiute Indians of the Mono Basin. Although there was abundant mining activity in adjacent areas, the prospectors of the late 19th century found little of interest here. The area remained roadless, and was recognized only for its scenic and recreational value, including fishing. Then during the decline of the mining era, interest developed in the new technology of Hydroelectric Energy.

June Lake is known as a quaint resort community, with an authentic hometown atmosphere. The chief industry is tourism, with lodging and vacation rentals ranging from cottages and cabins to motels and full-service resorts. The newest addition to the town is the Double Eagle Resort and Spa. This property offers luxurious accommodations along with a pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, massage therapy, a restaurant and bar. Other places to stay include: Boulder Lodge, Gull Lake Lodge, The Haven, Four Seasons, Silver Lake Resort, Reverse Creek Lodge, Lake Front Cabins, June Lake Villager Inn, June Lake Pines Cottages, Whispering Pines, June Lake Motel, Heidelberg Inn, the Knoll Haus, Fern Creek Lodge, and Big Rock Resort. There are also Vacation Homes and Condominiums available for transient occupancy. During the fair weather months, the June Lake Loop offers RV camping at: Silver Lake Resort RV Park, Pine Cliff Resort, June Lake RV Park, Golden Pine RV Park, and Grant Lake Marina. There are also public Campgrounds on the lands of the Inyo National Forest at Oh! Ridge, June Lake, Gull Lake, Reversed Creek, and Silver Lake.