Old Isabella
03 reviews11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238
Old Isabella
$12.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Fees for day use are $12 per vehicle/day. Dump station use costs $20. Interagency Recreation Passes are honored.
About this campground
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.
Old Isabella Campground offers both developed campsites above the high-water mark and shoreline camping below the high-water mark. Visitors can drive their vehicles to the shoreline and camp at the water’s edge during the summer.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground's modern amenities serve today's adventurers, this area holds deeper connections to California's past, sitting within the traditional territories of indigenous peoples who first recognized the value of this abundant landscape. The construction of Lake Isabella in the 1950s transformed the region, creating new recreational opportunities while preserving the timeless appeal of camping under Sierra skies.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transitions of the Sierra Nevada foothills at Old Isabella. Winter months bring crisp, refreshing air perfect for cozy campfires and peaceful solitude, while summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched paradise where temperatures often soar above 90°F—ideal for swimming, boating, and lakeside lounging. Spring and fall offer the best of both worlds with mild temperatures and stunning natural displays as wildflowers bloom or leaves change color against the backdrop of Lake Isabella's shimmering waters.
ElevationNestled in the transitional zone between the Central Valley and the Sierra Nevada mountains, Old Isabella Campground offers a moderate elevation that provides relief from valley heat while remaining accessible year-round. This strategic positioning creates an ideal microclimate for camping, where mountain breezes meet lake-cooled air to create comfortable conditions even during peak summer months.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views of Lake Isabella's expansive waters, where golden hillsides dotted with native oaks frame the ever-changing shoreline. The campground's prime location within Sequoia National Forest places you at the heart of California's diverse ecosystem, where desert landscapes meet mountain forests. Watch eagles soar overhead, spot deer grazing at dawn, and enjoy spectacular sunsets that paint the lake in shades of orange and pink. The flexible camping options mean you can choose between sheltered sites among the trees or open spots with unobstructed lake views.
Geological RegionPositioned on the southern shores of Lake Isabella within the magnificent Sequoia National Forest, Old Isabella Campground sits at the confluence of several distinct California ecosystems. This unique location in the southern Sierra Nevada foothills showcases the region's geological diversity, from ancient granite formations to sedimentary layers that tell the story of California's dynamic past. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills, seasonal streams, and the dramatic backdrop of the Kern River Valley, all contributing to an outdoor experience that captures the essence of California's natural heritage.
Campsite details
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCamp below the high-water mark for lakeside access.
Best CampsitesUser review highlights lakeside camping as an excellent experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Not explicitly mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCamping available both above and below the high-water mark. Below the high-water mark allows lakeside camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen all year around.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ExplorUs. Website: https://www.goexplorus.com; Phone: 661-702-1420 (home office) and 760-376-1269 (Lake Isabella office).
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities abound at Old Isabella Campground, located on the southern side of Lake Isabella. Key activities include fishing, boating (both motorized and non-motorized), waterskiing, and windsurfing. These offerings make the campground particularly appealing to water sports enthusiasts.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Lake Isabella, with anglers enjoying the opportunity for lake and pond fishing. User reviews highlight the serene environment, although one user mentioned being deterred by strong winds while fishing at night.Boating
The campground provides access to both motorized and non-motorized boating activities. A public boat launch and courtesy dock are available adjacent to the campground, along with a large paved parking area for boat trailers and vehicles.Water Sports
Water sports such as waterskiing and windsurfing are available at Lake Isabella, offering exciting options for visitors.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire permits are required. Depending on fire restrictions, campfires may be prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10pm - 6am
Hazards
General hazardsLake water may be contaminated; visitors are advised to bring their own potable water or water filters. Seasonal wind issues are mentioned in user reviews.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned in the authoritative content.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Kern River Ranger District Kernville Office provides emergency contact details: 760-376-3781. Address: 11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash services are available at the campground. Portable trash receptacles are added for shoreline camping during the summer months.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are located near Lake Isabella, with some sites directly on the shoreline below the high-water mark.
Common complaintsComplaint about expired passes when using credit card payment, lack of hot coffee facilities, and high winds during fishing activities (user review).
HostOperated under concessionaire permit with ExplorUs.
Campground Map
11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238
Driving directionsLocated off Highway 178 on the southern side of Lake Isabella. Visitors can drive their vehicles to the shoreline below the high-water mark to camp at the water's edge.
Accessible off Highway 178. Seasonal driving challenges may exist below the high-water mark in summer.Nearby places
Lake Isabella - 0 miles
Kernville - approximately 9 miles.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Kernville, 9 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Old Isabella has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-liked by visitors, with positive reviews highlighting the serene environment, proximity to the lake, and access to recreational activities. However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with payment processes and limited nighttime accessibility.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the serene environment of the campground and its proximity to Lake Isabella. The ability to camp right on the shoreline is often praised. One user described it as 'one of the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints primarily center around payment and access issues. One user reported difficulties with the automated payment system, stating they were 'out $24' after receiving expired passes twice....
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to familiarize themselves with the lake area ahead of time, especially if arriving after dark, as navigation can be challenging. Bringing a water filter or sufficient drinking...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are particularly popular for shoreline camping and water activities, but windy conditions might deter some visitors, particularly those engaging in fishing at night. In general, warmer...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great spot to camp or enjoy a relaxing view of the lake and nature surrounding.' 2. 'I've camped here a few times now and I can say it's one of the nicest places I've ever pitched a tent right on...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025