Hobo Campground
4.2272 reviews11380 Kernville Road
Hobo Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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
Seasonal fee is $28 per night during peak season (May 24 - September 2) with an additional $2 for holiday nights. No booking fees for off-season (September 2 - May 22).
About this campground
Nestled along the winding Lower Kern River in the heart of Sequoia National Forest, Hobo Campground offers an intimate escape at 2,290 feet elevation. This riverside retreat features 25 thoughtfully placed sites, including 23 tent-only spots and two accessible single campsites, all sheltered beneath a canopy of native trees. Just a stone's throw from the legendary Miracle Hot Springs, visitors find themselves immersed in a world where riparian forests meet rushing waters, creating the perfect basecamp for riverside adventures and peaceful contemplation.
Hobo Campground is a tent-only facility featuring 21 single sites and 2 accessible single sites. It is a primitive campground with no RV hookups or cabin accommodations, making it suitable for those seeking a rustic camping experience.
Historical SignificanceEchoes of a bygone era linger near the campground, where weathered remnants of an old resort stand as silent witnesses to the area's storied past. These ruins near Miracle Hot Springs tell tales of early California tourism, when visitors would journey to this remote canyon seeking the therapeutic waters and wilderness solitude that continue to draw adventurers today.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with the dry, sun-soaked climate characteristic of the southern Sierra foothills, Hobo Campground enjoys comfortable temperatures throughout its peak season. As late spring transforms into summer, the Kern River swells with releases from Lake Isabella upstream, creating a dramatic aquatic display. While the river's powerful currents and hidden undertows make it unsuitable for swimming, its rushing waters provide a mesmerizing soundtrack to your camping experience and endless opportunities for riverside relaxation.
ElevationPerched at 2,290 feet above sea level, Hobo Campground occupies a sweet spot in the Sierra foothills where mountain breezes temper the valley heat. This modest elevation creates an ideal microclimate—high enough to escape the scorching temperatures of the Central Valley below, yet low enough to remain accessible year-round, offering campers a refreshing refuge without the challenges of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryA living gallery of California's native riparian splendor unfolds throughout Hobo Campground, where towering sycamores, graceful willows, stately cottonwoods, and delicate alders create a multi-layered canopy overhead. Come autumn, this riverside forest erupts in a spectacular display of golden yellows and burnt oranges. The Kern River flows mere steps from most campsites, its crystalline waters carving through the landscape while gentle hills rise on either side, creating an intimate canyon setting that feels worlds away from civilization.
Geological RegionHobo Campground lies within the dramatic Lower Kern Canyon, a geological wonderland carved by millennia of flowing water through the western reaches of Sequoia National Forest. This unique riparian corridor supports a lush ribbon of life—sycamores, willows, cottonwoods, and alders—that thrives along the Kern River's banks, creating a verdant oasis amidst the otherwise arid foothills. The canyon's sculpted walls and water-polished stones tell the ancient story of the river's patient work in shaping this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes 2 accessible single sites, as well as accessible vault toilets and parking. Paved roads and parking areas further enhance accessibility.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally small and tent-only. One user mentioned that some sites are "exposed and sunny with no shade," while others are shaded under riparian trees such as sycamores and willows.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites being closely spaced. One reviewer noted, "Campsites were closer together than I liked," while another remarked that the sound of the river masked neighboring noise.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 10 is noted for protection from wind due to its location near a canyon wall. Some sites offer more shade than others.
Best CampsitesNo specific best campsites highlighted in sources.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest per site policy mentioned.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are relatively close together and most are near the river. Portable toilets are distributed across the campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season: May 24 - September 2.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not supported. Reservations must be made online or through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the arrival date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (after midnight one day before arrival) forfeit the first night's fee. Modifications may also incur a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hobo Campground offers a mix of recreational opportunities, including access to Miracle and Remington Hot Springs, hiking trails like the one connecting Hobo to Sandy Flat Campground, and whitewater boating on the Lower Kern River. Wildlife viewing and fishing are also popular activities.
Hiking
A trail at the northern end of the campground connects to Sandy Flat Campground, providing hiking opportunities. Reviews did not specifically mention the difficulty or length of this trail.Fishing
Fishing is popular along the Kern River. One user remarked, "I haven't had much luck fishing, but I love this place."Boating
Whitewater boating is a popular activity on the Lower Kern River. A free Kern River Use permit is required, obtainable from the Kernville Ranger Station.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include beavers, squirrels, bunnies, bears, horses, and various bird species. One user noted, "You camp right on the river's edge under the forest trees with the wildlife."Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreation activities such as skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular water sports along the Kern River, facilitated by local outfitters offering guided trips.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires require a California Campfire Permit. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFast currents in the Kern River pose safety risks; swimming is discouraged. Wildlife, including bears, may require secure food storage. Seasonal flooding affects some campsites.
Active alertsFire restrictions may apply, and seasonal flooding was noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
97
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Unstaffed location. For emergencies, contact the main office: (760) 376-3781. Closest hospital and law enforcement services are likely in Kernville or Bakersfield.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 24 - September 2.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available, but reviews indicate issues with cleanliness. One user noted, "The campground had trash all over the ground," and another mentioned, "Trash dumpsters were available but not well-maintained."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Lower Kern River and within walking distance of Miracle Hot Springs.
Common complaintsComplaints include cleanliness issues with vault toilets, noise disturbances, and crowded conditions.
HostBob is a known camp host who has been praised for friendliness and assistance. Host site is located at Site 4.
Campground Map
11380 Kernville Road
Driving directionsFrom Bakersfield, California travel approximately 37 miles east on CA 178. Turn right onto Borel Road, and drive about 1/3 of a mile until you reach Kern Canyon Road. Take a right onto Kern Canyon Road and continue for 1.7 miles until you see the sign for Hobo Campground, keep right to stay on the driveway. The driveway that splits to the left is the parking lot for Miracle Hot Springs.
The campground road is paved but not suitable for vehicles and attachments longer than 22 feet due to the narrow road.Nearby places
Bakersfield (37 miles, approximately 45-50 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
No specific information is provided in sources. Likely to be Kernville or Bakersfield for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.2
72 reviews
Hobo Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews about Hobo Campground are mixed, highlighting its scenic location and proximity to the Kern River but pointing out issues with cleanliness, maintenance, and noise. Positive sentiments often focus on the helpfulness of the camp hosts and the beauty of the surroundings. Negative reviews frequently cite poorly maintained toilets, trash, and noise from other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 72 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the scenic riverside location, the dense canopy of riparian trees, and the proximity to Miracle Hot Springs. One user noted, "This campground, like many these days, showed that...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Numerous complaints include poorly maintained vault toilets, trash left around the campground, noise disturbances from other campers, and issues with double-booked sites. One reviewer stated, "Pit...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing insect repellent due to the presence of bugs like bees and mosquitoes and packing drinking water as no potable water is available. Visitors also suggest arriving prepared...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer, with high traffic leading to more noise and cleanliness issues. Fall offers a quieter experience with dramatic foliage displays, while spring can bring...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Bob the Campground host was incredibly friendly, helpful with information, and even lent us some firewood when we were low!" "This place used to be and still is an awesome campground. The old usual...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews mention specific issues at sites, such as site 7 lacking space for a tent and being fully exposed to sunlight, and site 10 being muddy and flooded during certain seasons. Site 19 was noted...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as accessible walkways and vault toilets were appreciated. However, no specific feedback from users with disabilities was found.
Based on 72 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no detailed reviews related to pet experiences were provided.
Based on 72 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025