CalTrans begins a monthslong pavement project on US 395 adjacent to Manzanar National Historic Site on Monday, May 11, 2026. Crews will be working to ensure access to Manzanar remains open, but it will be important to travel cautiously as typical access may involve detours and map apps may be inaccurate. Though work is scheduled only during weekdays, lane closures and detours will be in place throughout the week. More information may be available through CalTrans.
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Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
Manzanar National Historic Site is a hidden gem located in California. While many tourists flock to the major parks, this national historic site offers a much more peaceful and intimate experience with nature. It is preserved for its unique history, diverse habitats, and local significance.
About Manzanar National Historic Site
Manzanar National Historic Site is a national historic site located in California. Manzanar is located in the Owens Valley at 4,000' elevation, at the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada. We get little precipitation but we do have four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures can soar over 100 degrees. Winter highs are usually in the 40's. Nighttime temperatures year round are 30 to 40 degrees less than daytime highs. High winds are common in any season.
Manzanar is located on the west side of U.S. Highway 395, 9 miles north of Lone Pine, California and 6 miles south of Independence, CA.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Manzanar is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Manzanar National Historic Site offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Biking, Road Biking, Food, Picnicking, and 11 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Manzanar
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Manzanar
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Manzanar before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 1 active alerts for Manzanar. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Manzanar. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
In 1942, the United States government ordered more than 110,000 men, women, and children to leave their homes and detained them in remote, military-style camps. Manzanar War Relocation Center was one of ten camps where the US government incarcerated Japanese immigrants ineligible for citizenship and Japanese American citizens during World War II.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Manzanar
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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