Fort Tejon Group Campground
4.3222 reviews4201 Fort Tejon Road, Lebec, CA 93243
Fort Tejon Group Campground
$6.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day-use fees are $6 per vehicle with discounts for seniors ($5) and disabled persons ($3). Group camping fees are $50 for small buses (10-24 passengers) and $125 for large buses (25-100 passengers).
About this campground
Nestled beneath towering century-old oaks, Fort Tejon Group Campground invites you to gather with friends and family in a setting where California's frontier past meets modern comfort. Your group will enjoy well-appointed sites featuring picnic tables perfect for communal meals, barbecues for evening cookouts, and crackling fire pits for sharing stories under the stars. Fresh drinking water flows throughout the grounds, while RV adventurers can take advantage of convenient electric and water hookups that make extended stays a breeze.
The Fort Tejon Group Campground exclusively accommodates group camping and RVs, with limited facilities for primitive tent camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to the days when soldiers patrolled California's untamed frontier at this former U.S. Army outpost. From 1854 to 1864, Fort Tejon stood as a vital guardian of the Tejon Pass, protecting travelers and maintaining peace between settlers and Native Americans. Today, meticulously restored adobe buildings whisper tales of military life on the edge of civilization, while the on-site museum brings history to life with artifacts and exhibits that transport visitors to an era when California was still finding its identity.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of Grapevine Canyon's weather, where each season brings its own adventure. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched retreat with temperatures that can soar above 100°F—perfect for early morning hikes and lazy afternoon siestas in the shade. Winter wraps the canyon in crisp mountain air, occasionally dusting the landscape with snow that transforms familiar trails into wonderlands. Throughout the year, the canyon's famous winds sweep through, carrying the scent of oak and sage while reminding visitors of nature's powerful presence.
ElevationPerched at 3,500 feet in the heart of Grapevine Canyon, the campground occupies a sweet spot where mountain air meets valley warmth. This elevation creates a unique microclimate that offers respite from valley heat in summer while delivering crisp, invigorating temperatures that make autumn camping magical. The altitude shapes everything from the morning mist that clings to the oaks to the brilliant clarity of star-filled nights, creating an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient oak sentinels spread their gnarled branches overhead, creating natural cathedral ceilings that filter golden sunlight by day and frame constellations by night. The life-giving waters of Grapevine Creek nurture a thriving riparian woodland where willows and cottonwoods provide sanctuary for diverse wildlife. Keep your camera ready for memorable encounters—majestic California condors soar on thermal currents above, deer browse quietly at dawn and dusk, and the haunting call of coyotes echoes through the canyon under moonlit skies.
Geological RegionCarved into the rugged embrace of the Tehachapi Mountains, the campground sits at the crossroads of geological drama where the infamous San Andreas Fault has sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. Grapevine Canyon serves as nature's gateway through Tejon Pass, where oak woodlands blend seamlessly with riparian ecosystems to create a biological treasure trove. This dynamic terrain tells a millions-year story written in stone, where tectonic forces continue to shape the dramatic peaks and valleys that make this region one of California's most geologically fascinating destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible picnic tables, restrooms, and parking are present near the visitor center. The interpretive trail around historic grounds is generally accessible.
Sites SizeSpacious layout suitable for large group camping.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is designed for group use, limiting individual site privacy.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for large group events due to spacious layout and availability of RV hookups.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers highlighted as the campground is primarily for group use.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Each group site is spacious, accommodating large events with picnic tables, BBQ pits, and fire rings. The group campground also features two RV/Trailer pull-in spaces with electric and water hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures two RV/trailer pull-in spaces with electric and water hookups, open areas for tent camping, and adjacent parking.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available via ReserveCalifornia and through park office phone or email.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo mention of walk-up availability. All camping appears to require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations require a deposit (amount varies by activity, such as $50 for day programs) which may not be refundable after booking.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Fort Tejon Group Campground offers access to historical and nature-based activities. Highlights include visiting restored adobe buildings, exploring historical exhibits, wildlife viewing, and short hiking trails. Living History demonstrations occur on the first Saturday of each month and feature reenactments of frontier life.
Hiking
Short hiking trails lead to scenic views near the hill foot and gates blocking wilderness access. These trails are described as nice and easy by users.Wildlife viewing
The park's natural ecosystem includes endangered species like California condors, along with scrub jays, red-shafted flickers, blacktailed deer, bobcats, and badgers. Wildlife sightings are highlighted in reviews.Cultural and Educational Programs
Living History demonstrations and historical exhibits offer cultural insights into 1850s-1860s frontier life.Winter Activities
The park may experience occasional snow in the winter, but winter-specific recreational activities are not detailed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable to this facility due to its inland location.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only within designated fire pits. Barbecues available.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include strong canyon winds, wildlife encounters (e.g., coyotes), and proximity to an active seismic zone (San Andreas fault).
Active alertsNo active alerts, but occasional wind advisories may apply.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is Adventist Health Tehachapi Valley (approximately 30 miles away). Police services are accessible from Kern County Sheriff's Office in nearby Lebec. Park rangers are on-site during operating hours.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and fall are considered peak seasons.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are likely available within the park facilities but are not specifically mentioned for the campground.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Grapevine Creek, a year-round water source attracting diverse wildlife.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention the presence of burned-out picnic tables and occasional high winds in the valley.
HostPark rangers are available during visitor center hours (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM).
Campground Map
4201 Fort Tejon Road, Lebec, CA 93243
Driving directionsThe park is approximately 76 miles northwest of Los Angeles along the "Grapevine" section of the I-5 freeway, via the Fort Tejon exit (Exit 210 heading north or south).
Accessible year-round via paved roads; seasonal weather like snow or strong winds in Grapevine Canyon may occasionally create challenges.Nearby places
Los Angeles (76 miles, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes), Bakersfield (40 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Gorman (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in nearby Lebec (approximately 5 miles) or Gorman (approximately 10 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.3
22 reviews
Fort Tejon Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews often highlight the historic and natural aspects of the park. Positive sentiments focus on the spacious group camping layout, wildlife sightings, and informative exhibits. Complaints include strong winds and burned-out picnic tables.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
"Spacious historic fort with 400-year-old oak trees." "Well-preserved buildings and detailed exhibits on frontier army life." "Nice quiet place for group events with drinking water and electricity."
Based on 22 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Strong winds due to mountain valley location." "Burned-out picnic tables along some roads." "Limited reinactments and more markers instead of authentic sites."
Based on 22 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Layered clothing is recommended due to unpredictable weather." "Take 15 minutes out of your commute on I-5 to visit." "Use large spaces for group events; good for family gatherings."
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, making late spring and early fall ideal for camping. Winter temperatures can dip to freezing, with occasional snow.
Based on 22 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice quiet place to stop on your drive. Easy access from highway 5 and plenty of parking and restrooms available." "Everything is preserved well. Bathrooms and an informative museum with some things...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users mention the group campground being spacious and well-suited for events, but individual campsite reviews by number are not provided.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include picnic tables, restrooms, and parking. The interpretive trail is generally accessible.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash. No additional pet-friendly amenities are noted.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025