Mammoth Lakes History & Museums: Manzanar Internment Camp National Historic Site

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Manzanar Internment Camp

During the Second World War, Manzanar Internment Camp was home to more than 120,000 Japanese Americans, all of whom were forcefully relocated from their homes in 1942. The Historic Site was established as tribute to their ordeal.

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  • The Manzanar Historic Site charges no fees.
  • The site is open daily from dawn to dusk; The Interpretive Center is open 9am to 5:30pm (summer) and 9:00am to 4:30pm (winter).
  • The driving tour, at 3.2 miles, is an excellent introduction, while The Interpretive Center presents historic photographs and artifacts.

Overview

In 1942, under orders from Frank Delano Roosevelt’s Executive Order No. 9066, more than 120,000 Japanese American’s were forcefully relocated from their homes to Manzanar Camp. Manzanar is one of ten, remote, military-style camps that were established during World War II. Manzanar is known as the best preserved of all the camps, not only from structural remains, but also from extensive historical photographs.

Location/Directions

From Mammoth Lakes, take US-395 south. Manzanar is located on the west side of the highway, 5 miles south of Independence, CA.

Mailing Address

Manzanar National Historic Site
PO Box 426
Independence, CA 93526
760.878.2194

Hours/Seasons

The outdoor site is open every day from dawn until dawk.

The Interpretive Center is open 9am to 5:30 pm during the summer (April 1 –October 31) and 9:00am to 4:30 pm during the winter (November 1 – March 31).

Fees/Cost

The Manzanar Japanese Internment Camp does not charge entrance or user fees.

More Info

Interpretive Center
The Interpretive Center has a 22 minute film, and many photographs and artifacts detailing life during the camps occupation.

Driving Tour
There is a 3.2 mile auto tour around the site.

Guided Tour
Guided tours are available on a regular basis, and vary from 15 to 90 minutes in length.