Kinnikinnick
P O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA 93634, USA
Kinnikinnick
$3.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary by season and site type. Reservation processing fees include $8 for online or app bookings, $9 for contact center bookings, and...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider559-893-2111vista@vista-rec.com
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Sierra National Forest, this serene mountain retreat offers campers an escape into nature's quietude, with easy access to the sparkling waters of Huntington Lake and the pristine trails of Kaiser Wilderness. While currently closed for visitor safety due to hazard tree removal, this beloved campground typically serves as a perfect basecamp for wilderness adventures and lakeside relaxation.
Kinnikinnick Campground provides opportunities for tent and RV camping. Group sites and other advanced lodging options are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceThis campground stands as a gateway to the Kaiser Wilderness, a testament to America's commitment to preserving wild spaces for future generations. For decades, it has welcomed families, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the Sierra National Forest's protected landscapes, continuing a tradition of conservation and outdoor recreation that defines the Sierra Nevada experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain weather, from crisp, star-filled nights that call for cozy campfires to warm summer days perfect for hiking and swimming. The Mediterranean climate brings dry summers ideal for outdoor adventures, though campers should always check current fire restrictions during peak season to help preserve this treasured landscape.
ElevationPerched along the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada, the campground sits at a comfortable mountain elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere, typical of the Sierra's most beloved camping destinations.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines and fragrant firs create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into a gentle, dappled glow across the forest floor. The landscape transitions from oak-studded foothills to dense coniferous forests, with glimpses of granite peaks in the distance. Just a short drive away, Huntington Lake beckons with its crystal-clear waters, offering everything from peaceful paddling to exhilarating water sports against a backdrop of stunning mountain vistas.
Geological RegionSituated on the dramatic western slope of the central Sierra Nevada within the Sierra National Forest, the campground showcases the region's remarkable geological diversity. From the gentle, oak-covered foothills that mark the transition from valley to mountain, through densely forested slopes carved by ancient glaciers, to the rugged alpine landscapes above, this location offers a front-row seat to millions of years of geological history written in granite and forest.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible flush toilets and paved parking spurs for ease of mobility.
Sites SizeSites have enough space for a single RV with a tow vehicle or a single tent setup. Exact measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as peaceful and relaxing with some privacy, as one user noted: 'It’s always so quiet, relaxing and you don’t have to deal with people walking through your campground to get to the lake.'
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the lake are preferred for easy access to water activities.
Best CampsitesClose proximity to Huntington Lake is a favored feature; no specific site numbers highlighted.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in required during office hours
- specific time is not listed.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during a visit or within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Rules allow one RV per single site or up to two vehicles for double sites with an extra vehicle fee.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned as an option.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites feature paved parking spurs, picnic tables, campfire rings, and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is closed indefinitely due to hazard trees. Regular seasons include peak summer months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, contact center, or in-person booking.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites not occupied by reservation are released by noon the following day for first-come-first-serve booking.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or via phone. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting the first night's use fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kinnikinnick Campground offers a variety of recreational activities due to its proximity to Huntington Lake and the Kaiser Wilderness. Activities include hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Interpretive programs and nature walks are also available in the summer.
Hiking
Several hiking trails, such as Rancheria Falls, Indian Pools, and the 12-mile Kaiser Loop Trail, are accessible from the campground. These trails offer opportunities for both hikers and horseback riders.Fishing
Fishing is popular, with one visitor noting they caught six decent-sized trout during their stay. Huntington Lake offers ample fishing spots.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available at Huntington Lake, which is across the street from the campground. Safety measures are not detailed.Boating
Huntington Lake supports boating activities, including sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. Facilities for boat docking are not specified.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant in the area, and visitors are encouraged to use bear-proof containers for food storage due to the presence of bears.Cultural and Educational Programs
California Land Management sponsors interpretive programs and nature walks during the summer, though specific topics and schedules are not provided.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities, such as snowshoeing or skiing, are mentioned.Water Sports
Water-based activities include kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing at Huntington Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions vary depending on weather conditions; contact the High Sierra Ranger District for current status.
- Quiet hours are Hosts enforce quiet hours during nighttime to ensure comfort.
Hazards
General hazardsHazard trees have caused indefinite closure. Bears frequent the area, making proper food storage essential.
Active alertsActive closure due to hazard tree concerns; check with High Sierra Ranger District for updates.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and emergency medical services are in Fresno, approximately 60 miles away. Local ranger station contact: High Sierra Ranger District at (559) 855-5355.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months typically constitute peak season; specific date ranges are not provided.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is mentioned, but users are advised to store food in bear-proof containers due to wildlife activity.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Huntington Lake, offering swimming, boating, and fishing.
Common complaintsCamp hosts received mixed reviews with some guests finding them overly strict and others praising their helpfulness.
HostCamp hosts are present and described as knowledgeable, though reviews vary on friendliness and strictness.
Campground Map
P O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA 93634, USA
Driving directionsTake Highway 168 east from Clovis to Shaver Lake. Continue through Shaver Lake to Huntington Lake. Continue around Huntington Lake for 1.3 miles to Kinnikinnick Campground (located adjacent to Catavee Campground).
The campground is accessed via Highway 168, which is paved and provides year-round access; however, seasonal weather conditions may impact driving safety. Closures due to hazard trees and fire restrictions can occur.Nearby places
Shaver Lake (approximately 25 miles), Fresno (approximately 60 miles), Huntington Lake (approximately 1 mile).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Huntington Lake and Shaver Lake, which are both within a 25-mile radius.
Camper Reviews
4.4
19 reviews
Kinnikinnick is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Kinnikinnick Campground offer mixed sentiments. Most visitors praise the natural setting, cleanliness, and proximity to Huntington Lake. However, some complaints center around the demeanor of certain camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, accessibility, and quiet atmosphere. One user noted, 'Bathrooms are always clean, and hosts are super helpful.' Another stated, 'It’s always...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include unfriendly camp hosts and overly strict enforcement of rules. One user mentioned, 'Camp hosts are terrible at this campground! Not friendly whatsoever!'
Based on 19 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend reserving campsites well in advance due to high demand. Warm clothing is advised for cooler nights, and some suggest bringing bear-proof containers for food storage.
Based on 19 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular due to the availability of water-based activities and interpretive programs. Some visitors expressed disappointment about the late-season closure after Labor Day.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Love Kinnikinnick, it’s just across the street from the lake. It’s always so quiet, relaxing, and you don’t have to deal with people walking through your campground to get to the lake.'
2....
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
There are no specific reviews tied to individual campsites within the campground.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address experiences of visitors with disabilities.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews regarding pets. One user mentioned being scolded by a host for their dogs barking, which left a negative impression, while no facilities seem to cater explicitly to pets.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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