Tillie Creek
3.6544 reviewsTillie Creek
$34.00 - $280.00 / 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$280.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season standard non-electric campsite fees are $34. Group campsite fees range from $190 to $280 depending on group size and amenities.
About this campground
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.
Tillie Creek Campground accommodates individual, group, and ADA-accessible camping. Reviews highlight varied experiences, with some praising hosts and spacious group sites while others point out issues with overcrowding and mismanagement.
Historical SignificanceTillie Creek sits within the storied Sequoia National Forest, where nature has crafted living monuments that have stood sentinel for millennia. Here, you're camping in the shadow of the world's largest trees—the mighty giant sequoias—whose ancient presence has inspired generations of visitors and shaped the very identity of this remarkable landscape. These gentle giants have witnessed centuries of human history, from indigenous peoples to modern adventurers seeking connection with the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of California's diverse climate at Tillie Creek. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-worshipper's paradise, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits—perfect for those refreshing lake plunges. As autumn paints the oaks in golden hues, temperatures mellow to comfortable camping weather. Winter brings crisp mornings with temperatures dipping into the 30s, while afternoon highs hover around a pleasant 55°F, creating ideal conditions for cozy campfires and peaceful solitude.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath a canopy of stately oak trees, Tillie Creek unfolds as a natural amphitheater overlooking the azure expanse of Lake Isabella. This magnificent reservoir serves as your aquatic playground, inviting morning swims, afternoon fishing expeditions, and exhilarating water skiing sessions. Beyond the campground, the greater Sequoia National Forest reveals its treasures—hidden waterfalls cascade through granite gorges, while groves of giant sequoias stand in silent testimony to nature's grandeur.
Geological RegionPerched at the dramatic southern terminus of the Sierra Nevada range in central California, Tillie Creek occupies a geological wonderland where mountains meet water. The landscape tells an ancient story through precipitous canyons carved by time and mountain streams that tumble spectacularly over granite cliffs at Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. Lake Isabella itself marks a fascinating confluence, creating a vast aquatic jewel where the Upper and Lower Kern Rivers meet, offering campers a front-row seat to one of California's most dynamic water systems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne group area is wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary, with group sites accommodating up to 150 guests.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites offering more space and seclusion while others are near roads and neighborhoods ('Jeff F: The campground is very nice and in a walking distance to a nice views of the lake.').
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites closer to the front for more space, while group sites may offer better amenities for large gatherings. Avoid the back sites due to rocky terrain.
Best CampsitesGroup site FS1-20 received high praise for accommodating large groups and proximity to amenities. FS1ADA is wheelchair accessible and praised for views and accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM.
Check-out
12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people per site limit.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 150 guests and are wheelchair accessible.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground loops are narrow and feature tight turns, with overgrown areas on the closed sections. Individual campsites are spaced unevenly, some being close to the road.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is reservable from April 4 to October 25 (peak season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov via website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability exists but is not guaranteed during peak times; online reservations are encouraged.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made ahead of the check-in date incur a $10 fee; late cancellations subtract the first night's use fee. No refunds are given for cancellations on the check-in day.
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
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Tillie Creek Campground revolve around the adjacent Lake Isabella, offering swimming, boating, water skiing, and windsurfing. Fishing is popular during colder months with species such as trout, catfish, and largemouth bass available.
Fishing
Fishing is a key activity, especially for trout during colder months ('Lake activities are the focal point of this year-round campground.').Swimming
Swimming is available, though some reviews noted unfavorable water conditions ('Jazmine A: The campsites were far from the lake and the water that we did find was not water I would allow my kids to swing in.').Boating
Boating is supported with a marina and boat ramps located south of the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, with reports of bears near campsites ('Maria O: Oh and bears. First day there we saw a bear a few feet from our camp...').Cultural and Educational Programs
Free interpretive programs occur every Saturday morning at 9am during summer months.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed.Water Sports
Swimming, boating, water skiing, and windsurfing are available at Lake Isabella adjacent to the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are restricted due to burn bans. Fire pits are available, but users are encouraged to buy firewood locally to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are Noise restrictions are generally unenforced, with multiple reviews mentioning loud music and disturbances until early morning.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear sightings (as noted in user reviews), summer heat in the 100s, and limited shaded areas.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.4 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
Emergency services are available in the town of Lake Isabella, 6 miles away, including hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 4 - October 25.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. One review specifically noted a camp host cleaning these areas ('Vu D: He picked up trash only to clean the public restroom.').
Proximity to water featuresLake Isabella is within walking distance of the campground, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention noise from nearby roads and other campers, lack of shade, limited restroom cleanliness, and challenges with reservations and campsite availability.
HostOperated by Rocky Mountain Recreation Company. Hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, assisting with reservations and facility queries.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Bakersfield, California, take Highway 178 east to the town of Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella take Highway 155 north, traveling 6 miles to the entry station of Tillie Creek Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. However, overhanging branches might scrape some RVs, and the roads within the campground are narrow and tight loops, which might be challenging for trailers.Nearby places
Lake Isabella: 6 miles (approximately 10 minutes driving), Bakersfield: ~50 miles (about 1 hour driving).
Nearby supplies
Lake Isabella (6 miles away) houses grocery stores, camping supply shops, gas stations, and other essential services. A liquor store is within walking distance of the campground.
Camper Reviews
3.7
44 reviews
Tillie Creek has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Tillie Creek Campground present a mixed picture. Positive experiences include helpful camp hosts ('Gerardo R: The person working or attending the location was excellent friendly, honest and very helpful...') and scenic views ('Jessica A: Very relaxing and beautiful area'). However, negative reviews frequently mention overcrowding ('Katina W: Limit of 6 people per site was definitely not enforced...'), noise ('Jeff F: The noise from the highway, barking dogs, and roosters...'), and lack of cleanliness ('Maria O: Porta Potties were dirty when we got there and stayed that way all weekend.').
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the friendliness of camp hosts ('Vu D: He is very helpful with other questions.') and the campground's proximity to scenic spots ('Camille H: The campground is very nice and in...
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Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include overcrowding ('Katina W: Limit of 6 people per site was definitely not enforced...'), unclean bathrooms ('Maria O: Porta Potties were dirty when we got there and stayed...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest avoiding the campground during summer months due to heat and lack of shade ('Jessica G: Would return again, just not in the middle of the summer.') and opting for alternative nearby...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer months are hot with little shade ('James V: Not very much shade and very hot in the summer months.'), while off-season stays offer more privacy ('Brewster P: The campsite was largely empty—we...
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Camper Quotes
- 'The campground host was great.' - Joanne F
- 'Bathrooms seemed clean. However I didn't need to use them.' - Joanne F
- 'Very dry, hot, and windy with little shade.' - Jessica G
- 'Very relaxing...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site FS1-30: Mixed reviews about proximity to the river and noise from neighboring campers. Site FS1-40: Generally highlighted in negative reviews for being close to the road and noisy.
Based on 44 reviewsAccessibility Features
One group area is wheelchair accessible, and reviews from users with disabilities provide no specific concerns or praises regarding accessibility.
Based on 44 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Information related to pet policies is not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 44 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025