Chimney Creek Campground

Sequoia National Forest

Nestled along the water's edge, Auxiliary Dam Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience where the rhythm of nature sets the pace. This concessionaire-managed retreat welcomes adventurers seeking simple pleasures, with affordable nightly rates for dry camping that become even more budget-friendly for Senior Eagle Pass holders. Here, the essence of camping returns to its roots – just you, your gear, and the great outdoors.

Sequoia National Forest

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Isabella, Paradise Cove Campground invites adventurers to discover their own slice of heaven in the heart of Sequoia National Forest. This year-round destination offers 46 thoughtfully arranged campsites, each positioned to capture breathtaking lake views whether you choose a convenient back-in spot or spacious side-by-side configuration. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line into the crystal-clear waters, dive into refreshing swimming holes, or launch your boat for an afternoon of exploration across the lake's expansive surface.

Sequoia National Forest

Perched on the edge of adventure where desert meets mountain, Pioneer Point beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the dramatic beauty of Lake Isabella. This high-desert sanctuary in the heart of Sequoia National Forest serves as your gateway to endless water recreation and mountain exploration, where days are filled with world-class fishing and exhilarating water sports, and evenings bring spectacular sunsets painting the rugged landscape in golden hues.

11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238

Embrace the freedom of year-round camping at Old Isabella Campground, where adventure meets the sparkling waters of Lake Isabella just off Highway 178. This versatile outdoor haven offers the unique opportunity to pitch your tent high above the waterline or, when lake levels permit, drive right down to the shore for an unforgettable waterfront camping experience. Well-maintained vault toilets and regular trash services ensure comfort during your stay, while summer months bring additional amenities including portable facilities strategically placed throughout the grounds. Whether you're seeking a quick weekend escape or an extended lakeside retreat, Old Isabella delivers the perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty.

P.O. BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, CA, 93238, USA

Nestled just 3 miles from the sparkling waters of Lake Isabella, French Gulch Campground offers an ideal basecamp for large groups seeking adventure in the heart of Sequoia National Forest. This spacious group campground welcomes up to 100 guests, making it perfect for family reunions, scout troops, or outdoor clubs. Modern conveniences meet wilderness charm with flush toilets and fresh drinking water on-site, while nearby Lake Isabella's marina and boat ramps beckon water enthusiasts to explore. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, French Gulch provides the perfect blend of comfort and accessibility to the region's natural wonders.

Sequoia National Forest

Nestled along the pristine southern shores of Lake Isabella, South Fork Recreation Campground offers an idyllic waterfront escape where modern amenities meet natural beauty. This well-appointed campground features convenient flush toilets and a full-service boat launch, making it the perfect basecamp for both water enthusiasts and families seeking comfort in the great outdoors. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn for a day of fishing or simply relaxing by the water's edge, South Fork provides all the essentials for a memorable lakeside adventure.

Bureau of Land Management, Bakersfield Field Office, 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA, 93308, USA

Perched at 5,000 feet where Highway 178 winds through the Southern Sierras, Walker Pass Campground offers a genuine backcountry experience for those seeking solitude under vast desert skies. This intimate retreat features 11 walk-in sites designed for hikers and tent enthusiasts, plus 2 convenient car camping spots, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings. Adventure seekers will appreciate the direct access to the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, with both the Owens Peak and Cache Peak sections beckoning from your tent door. Horse riders find a warm welcome here too, with dedicated hitching racks and corrals available. While you'll need to bring your own water and pack out your trash, the absence of modern amenities—including cell service—only enhances the authentic wilderness experience that draws visitors back year after year.

PO BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, CA 93238, USA

Perched on a scenic hillside just three miles from the sparkling waters of Lake Isabella, Hungry Gulch Campground offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures. This expansive retreat features nearly 80 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with its own picnic table and campfire ring where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Modern amenities including flush toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without sacrificing the authentic outdoor experience. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of waterskiing across the lake's glassy surface, casting a line for the day's catch, or exploring winding forest trails, Hungry Gulch puts endless recreation right at your doorstep.

Sequoia National Forest

Perched at 2,650 feet where the high desert meets the Sierra Nevada foothills, Boulder Gulch Campground serves as your gateway to endless adventure. Wake up to golden sunrises over Lake Isabella, spend your days casting lines into pristine waters, carving through waves on a windsurfing board, or exploring scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient landscapes. This diverse outdoor playground beckons both thrill-seekers and those simply seeking solace in nature's embrace.

11380 Kernville Road, Kernville, CA 93238

Escape to Stine Cove, where the untamed shores of Lake Isabella beckon adventurous souls seeking authentic wilderness camping. This free dispersed camping area strips away modern conveniences to deliver an unfiltered outdoor experience. With no designated sites, hookups, or running water, you'll find yourself immersed in nature's raw beauty. A single primitive restroom stands as the only nod to civilization, making this the perfect destination for self-sufficient campers who measure luxury in star-filled skies and lakeside sunrises.

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Perched along the sun-drenched shores of Lake Isabella, Camp 9 beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water recreation and desert camping. This sprawling lakeside retreat features over 100 first-come, first-served campsites that invite spontaneous adventures, alongside 11 reservable group sites perfect for family reunions and gatherings. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings, while modern conveniences like paved parking, portable toilets, a dump station, and fish cleaning facilities ensure comfort meets wilderness. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn or settling in for sunset stories around the campfire, Camp 9 delivers the authentic California camping experience.

Sequoia National Forest

Discover Tillie Creek, where ancient oak trees frame your lakeside escape along the sparkling shores of Lake Isabella. This year-round haven welcomes everyone from intimate family getaways to grand reunions of up to 150 guests across 60 thoughtfully spaced campsites. Wake to the gentle lapping of waves, spend sun-drenched days exploring endless water adventures, and find yourself perfectly positioned to venture into the legendary Sequoia National Park when mountain majesty calls.

PO BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, CA, 93238, USA

Nestled in the heart of Sequoia National Forest, Live Oak Campground welcomes adventurers to a world where ancient oak trees frame stunning views of Lake Isabella's shimmering waters. This peaceful retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures, from splashing in the lake's refreshing waters to discovering the awe-inspiring Giant Sequoia National Monument just a short drive away. Here, camping means waking up to birdsong filtering through oak branches and ending your days with spectacular Sierra Nevada sunsets.

Sequoia National Forest

Nestled in a tranquil grove of ancient oak trees, Live Oak South Campground offers an authentic tent-camping experience just steps from the sparkling waters of Lake Isabella. This peaceful retreat combines the shade and serenity of old-growth oaks with easy access to one of the Sierra Nevada's most beloved recreational lakes, where days are filled with swimming, boating, and waterside adventures.

PO BOX 1640

Nestled alongside the rushing waters of the Kern River, Headquarters Campground serves as your gateway to adventure in the heart of Sequoia National Forest. This riverside retreat draws outdoor enthusiasts from across California, offering the perfect basecamp for those seeking to cast a line in pristine waters, navigate thrilling rapids, or explore scenic mountain trails. Just minutes from the charming town of Kernville, you'll find yourself immersed in nature while staying connected to local amenities and supplies.

P.O. Box 1640, Kernville, California, 93238, United States

Nestled 4.5 miles north of Kernville, Halfway Group Campground beckons groups seeking an authentic riverside camping experience along the legendary Kern River. This rustic retreat features five spacious group sites designed for tent camping enthusiasts who prefer nature's soundtrack over modern conveniences. While you won't find hookups or potable water here, you'll discover something far more valuable – genuine connection with the wilderness, complete with sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals, campfire rings for evening storytelling, and clean portable facilities.

PO BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, CA, 93238, USA

Nestled beneath a canopy of ancient oaks and honey locusts, Camp Three Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of the Upper Kern River canyon. This riverside sanctuary features 52 thoughtfully designed paved sites, each offering a perfect balance of shade and sunshine. For larger gatherings, a spacious group site welcomes up to 30 people, making it an ideal basecamp for family reunions or outdoor celebrations. Perched at 2,800 feet, the campground serves as your gateway to one of California's most dramatic river corridors.

PO BOX 1640

Perched above the rushing waters of the Kern River, Thunderbird Group Campground offers an unforgettable basecamp for your next outdoor adventure in Sequoia National Forest. This group-friendly destination draws thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, who come to challenge the river's rapids, cast lines into pristine fishing holes, and explore miles of scenic hiking trails. Whether you're paddling through whitewater or gathering around the campfire with friends, Thunderbird provides the perfect blend of riverside excitement and mountain tranquility.

Sequoia National Forest

Embrace the freedom of wilderness camping at this pristine dispersed site along the Upper Kern River. While you won't find traditional amenities like bathrooms or designated facilities, you'll discover something far more valuable – an authentic connection with California's untamed backcountry. This primitive camping experience invites adventurous souls to practice Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in the raw beauty of the Sequoia National Forest.

Sequoia National Forest

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Kern River, Hospital Flat Campground serves as your gateway to adventure in the heart of Sequoia National Forest. Here, the rhythmic rush of river waters sets the soundtrack for days filled with world-class fly fishing, exhilarating whitewater rafting, and peaceful kayaking excursions. Trail enthusiasts will discover endless hiking opportunities that wind through diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to mountain vistas, making this riverside retreat the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventure.

351 Pacu Lane, Suite 100, Bishop, CA, 93546, USA

Escape to Long Valley Campground, where the untamed wilderness of Chimney Peak Recreation Area beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry experience. Nestled at the edge of the magnificent Domelands Wilderness, this primitive campground offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from modern life and immerse yourself in nature's raw beauty. Here, under star-filled skies and surrounded by rugged mountain terrain, you'll find the perfect basecamp for those who prefer their camping experiences unfiltered and authentic.

Sequoia National Forest

Escape to the untamed beauty of Corral Creek Dispersed Camping, where the North Fork of the Kern River becomes your backyard and the stars your ceiling. This pristine dispersed camping area offers adventurers a chance to experience nature on their own terms—no hookups, no numbered sites, just you and the wilderness. While you'll find the essentials like portable toilets and trash bins during the busy summer months, the real luxury here is the freedom to choose your perfect riverside spot and create your own camping adventure.

Sequoia National Forest

Nestled where ancient forests meet crystal-clear waters, this hidden gem offers campers an authentic escape into nature's embrace. Whether you're seeking solitary reflection beneath towering pines or family adventures along scenic trails, this campground serves as your gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences. Each campsite has been thoughtfully positioned to maximize privacy while maintaining easy access to modern amenities, creating the perfect balance between wilderness immersion and comfortable camping.

PO BOX 1640

Perched along the rushing waters of the Kern River, Goldledge Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic high desert camping experience just 10 miles north of Kernville. Here, the sound of rapids provides the soundtrack to days filled with world-class kayaking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. The campground's collection of single-family sites and secluded walk-to tent spots come equipped with the essentials—sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, fresh drinking water, and clean vault toilets. While the sparse desert landscape offers little shade, the proximity to the river creates a natural oasis where campers can cool off after exploring the rugged terrain.

Sequoia National Forest

Perched at a breathtaking 7,600 feet in the mountains, Horse Meadow Campground welcomes both tent campers and equestrians to its 41 thoughtfully placed sites, complete with horse corrals for your four-legged companions. This high-country retreat accommodates smaller RVs (22 feet maximum) and sits in active black bear habitat, where proper food storage isn't just recommended—it's essential for keeping both you and the wildlife safe.

Sequoia National Forest

Tucked along the pristine North Fork of the Kern River, Chamise Flat beckons adventurous campers seeking a true wilderness experience just 12 miles north of Kernville. This dispersed camping area embraces a back-to-basics philosophy—bring your own water and enjoy the freedom of riverside camping where nature sets the rhythm. During summer months, you'll find portable toilets and trash bins to help maintain this beautiful landscape.

PO BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, California, 93238

Tucked away along the rushing waters of the Upper Kern River, Limestone Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience at 3,500 feet elevation. This intimate, tent-only retreat is embraced by aromatic gray pines and gnarled scrub oaks, where the sounds of nature replace modern distractions. While amenities are purposefully simple—picnic tables and vault toilets with no running water or electrical hookups—the rewards are immeasurable for those seeking genuine wilderness solitude. Thoughtfully managed by Rocky Mountain Recreation Company, this hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for adventurers ready to disconnect and explore the raw beauty of the Southern Sierra.

11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238

Where the rushing waters of Brush Creek converge with the mighty Upper Kern River, adventurers discover a hidden gem of free dispersed camping that captures the essence of California's wild heart. This pristine riverside sanctuary welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with convenient vault toilets and seasonal trash facilities, all set within an expansive, open landscape that beckons anglers to cast their lines and hikers to explore untamed trails. The easily accessible site offers the perfect blend of wilderness immersion and practical amenities, making it an ideal basecamp for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences without the crowds or fees of traditional campgrounds.

Inyo National Forest

Where the legendary Pacific Crest Trail winds through the Southern Sierra, Kennedy Meadows Campground awaits as a gateway to pure wilderness adventure. Perched at 6,100 feet elevation along the South Fork of the Kern River, this rustic haven offers 37 sites nestled among fragrant juniper and pinyon pine trees. Here, camping returns to its roots—no running water, no trash services, just you and the raw beauty of the mountains. Simple vault toilets and sturdy picnic tables provide the essentials, while the surrounding wilderness provides everything else you need for an authentic backcountry experience.

11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238

Tucked away in a pristine forest of towering Lodgepole and Jeffrey pines, Fish Creek Campground offers 37 thoughtfully designed paved sites that blend seamlessly with nature. This mountain retreat has become a haven for adventure seekers, with dirt bike enthusiasts drawn to the extensive network of motorized trails that spider through the surrounding wilderness. For those seeking quieter pursuits, winding hiking paths lead to hidden meadows and the gentle waters of Fish Creek. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilets and non-potable water sources, while embracing Leave No Trace principles with its pack-in/pack-out policy. Remember to secure your campfire permit before arrival, as these mountain forests demand respect and caution.

Sequoia National Forest

Perched at an impressive 7,800 feet elevation, this mountain retreat features 73 thoughtfully designed campsites nestled among towering pines and crisp mountain air. The campground welcomes RVs up to 24 feet, with each site featuring a paved parking spur for easy setup and bear-proof storage boxes for peace of mind. Adventure seekers will love the direct access to thrilling OHV trails right from camp, while fresh drinking water is available throughout the season. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping off-road adventures or simply yearning to wake up above the clouds, this high-elevation haven offers the perfect basecamp for your mountain escape.