DCR, I haven't stayed at the Mono campground, only the Middle Santa Ynez. I also echo Rick's sentiments -I've gone there after some rains and it was great. Only occasionally if it rains heavily will the Forest Service close the gate you saw and passed through at the top of Camino Cielo (Romero Saddle). By calling the Forest Service ahead of time (if it's raining or has been raining), they can tell you whether that gate is closed or not.