Hospital Flat
4.0558 reviewsHospital Flat
$34.00 - $145.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$145.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates for standard nonelectric sites and walk-to sites are $34 per night with an additional $2 holiday fee. Group walk-to sites are $145 per night with an $8 holiday fee. Reservation service fees apply: $8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
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.
Hospital Flat Campground accommodates various camping styles, focusing on traditional camping experiences. Sites are designed for tents, some walk-in, and no RV hookups are available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of California history at Sequoia National Forest, where ancient giant sequoia groves stand as silent witnesses to centuries past. The beloved Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail offers more than just spectacular views—it's a journey through time, featuring a collection of historic cabins carefully constructed between 1904 and 1909. These weathered structures tell the stories of early settlers and adventurers who first recognized the magic of this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Hospital Flat into a sun-drenched paradise where temperatures can soar to an impressive 107°F, creating the perfect conditions for river activities and early morning hikes. Savvy campers come prepared with portable shade structures and plenty of ice, turning the intense heat into an opportunity to perfect the art of riverside relaxation. The scorching afternoons invite you to seek refuge in the cool river waters or find respite beneath the rustling cottonwoods that line the banks.
ElevationPerched at 3,000 feet above sea level, Hospital Flat offers the perfect balance of mountain ambiance and accessibility. This moderate elevation provides cooler mornings and evenings than the valley floor below, while still maintaining the warm, dry conditions that make summer camping so enjoyable. The altitude creates ideal conditions for stargazing, with crisp, clear nights revealing countless stars above the canyon walls.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Kern Wild and Scenic River flows as the lifeblood of Hospital Flat, its crystal-clear waters carving through a dramatic landscape of towering canyon walls. A verdant ribbon of cottonwoods and willows creates a lush oasis along the riverbanks, their leaves whispering ancient secrets in the breeze. Beyond this green corridor, the rugged beauty of gray pine and scrub oak climbs the canyon slopes, part of the magnificent 1.1 million-acre tapestry that is Sequoia National Forest. This diverse ecosystem showcases nature's artistry, from delicate wildflowers to massive geological formations sculpted over millennia.
Geological RegionHospital Flat rests within the dramatic southern reaches of the Sierra Nevada, where Sequoia National Forest unfolds across central California's most spectacular mountain terrain. This geological wonderland features precipitous canyons carved by the relentless force of mountain streams, with the Kern Wild and Scenic River as its crown jewel. The landscape tells a story written in stone and water, where gray pines cling to rocky outcrops, scrub oaks dot the hillsides, and native grasses and shrubs paint the terrain in ever-changing seasonal hues. Along the river corridor, ancient cottonwoods and graceful willows create a riparian paradise that contrasts beautifully with the arid canyon walls above.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the data. Some reviewers noted that campsite proximity to bathrooms and river access may vary.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious enough for standard camping equipment but can be challenging due to rocky terrain. Specific large sites like #34 have been noted to accommodate multiple tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some sites are closely clustered, reducing privacy, while others are more spread out. Sites along the river are particularly sought after.
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the river are recommended for their views and proximity to swimming areas. Avoid sites #16 and sites near bathrooms due to unpleasant odors.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include #17 near the river, offering shade and a quiet environment. Detailed recommendations for other sites are provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out times are not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guest limits per site are not mentioned.
Groups
There is no information about designated group camping areas.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop along the river with sites spread out; some sites are near bathrooms and may lack privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 16 - September 13 (peak season). Closed season: September 13 - June 5.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the contact center, or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability is null.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fees if canceled within one day of arrival for individual sites. Late cancellations and penalties vary for group sites and day-use facilities.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hospital Flat Campground offers a wide range of activities due to its location along the Kern River. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, kayaking, rafting, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity. Trails, like the nearby Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail, offer stunning views of the Kern River Valley.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Kern River, though reviews suggest varying levels of success. Some anglers found the fish to be too small to keep.Swimming
Swimming is popular, particularly in calmer sections of the Kern River. However, some areas near the campground have Class 3 rapids, which are unsuitable for swimming.Boating
Rafting and kayaking are popular due to the proximity of the Kern River. However, access to calm waters can be limited.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include observing the natural flora and fauna along the river and canyon walls.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not relevant as the campground is primarily open during warmer months.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and tubing are popular along the Kern River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are restricted in certain conditions; campers are advised to use local firewood to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours information is null.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include poison oak, red ants, yellow jackets, and the fast-flowing Kern River. Some wells reportedly provide brown water that smells of rust.
Active alertsActive alert information is null.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 22.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services information is null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 13
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but reviews mention litter issues, including cigarette butts and wipes near the river.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to the Kern Wild and Scenic River.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include: lack of shade, sites crowded near bathrooms and the river, brown rusty water, and trash in the campground.
HostCamp hosts like 'Deb' and 'Peggy' are noted as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Kernville, go 6.5 miles north on Sierra Way (Mountain 99) to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Sierra Way (Mountain 99), which is a paved road. However, road conditions are not mentioned, so seasonal accessibility challenges are unknown.Nearby places
Kernville (6.5 miles north)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies information is null.
Camper Reviews
4.1
58 reviews
Hospital Flat is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's beautiful natural setting along the Kern River but point out issues like rocky terrain, limited shade, and occasional overcrowding. Mixed feedback on the vault toilets and water quality is common.
Review Summaries
Based on 58 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the natural beauty, access to the Kern River, and friendly camp hosts. Some favorite features include spacious campsites, calm river sections for swimming, and scenic surroundings.
Based on 58 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues include rocky ground making tent setup difficult, unpleasant smells from vault toilets, muddy or brown water, yellow jackets, and litter around the campground. Some users also report problems...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a mallet for pitching tents on rocky ground, portable water filters or drinking water, and shade structures due to limited tree cover. Advanced reservations for riverside sites are recommended.
Based on 58 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with temperatures reaching up to 110°F, making shade and water access essential. Fall and Spring offer milder weather but may have limited availability.
Based on 58 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The vault toilets were clean, and the grounds maintained okay." - Emmanuel D. "It’s very quiet, and it’s the best night sky I’ve ever seen." - Will B. "The place is a great spot to camp, but the...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #16 is close to the river but has been criticized for odors from nearby vault toilets. Sites #32, #33, and #34 are noted for their large size but limited privacy.
Based on 58 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities were available.
Based on 58 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback about pets was found in the provided information.
Based on 58 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025