Car camping near Mt. Whitney TR

I'm headed out to the Sierras for the first time to do some climbing on Mt. Whitney.

Some friends are going to meet us afterwards and we are looking for a good spot for car camping with close access to swimming, hiking, views, etc.

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

Alabama Hills are close by but can be pretty hot. And dry.
There are camp sites outside the Portal on FS land ($15-20 a night). Creekside.
And there is a backpackers camp right at the Portal.

Drive to Cottonwood Lakes.... 10,000 feet with water, views etc...

or Diaz Lake ...down by Lone Pine... you can swim, good view of Mt. Whitney.

Best place to eat in LP is Seasons... it's sort of $$$$$$ but worth it...

Visit Elevations in LP.... great little climbing shop.

A-hills BLM camping, be nice to the earth.

or

Tuttle Creek .... BLM CG with out houses

have fun

The Alabama Hills have very nice car camping that is pretty close to town, some fun sport climbing and good views. It doesn't have much water though. It tends to be hot, but the rocks can provide good shade in the afternoons if you pick your site well.