Top Camping Spots Near Kern Lake, CA: Explore Nature's Best Retreats
Nestled near the picturesque Kern Lake in California, outdoor enthusiasts will discover a variety of camping options that cater to all preferences, from RV enthusiasts to tent campers and those seeking the solitude of dispersed camping. The area is characterized by stunning vistas of the Sierra Nevada mountains, lush valleys, and the sparkling waters of the lake, making it an ideal backdrop for a memorable outdoor experience. For RV camping, Kern Lake Campground is a popular choice, offering full-hookup sites and convenient access to recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and boating. Tent campers can enjoy the serene atmosphere at nearby Beach Camp, which provides shaded sites and proximity to sandy shores perfect for swimming and relaxation. For the more adventurous, dispersed camping opportunities can be found in the surrounding areas of Sequoia National Forest, where visitors can pitch their tents amidst the towering trees and enjoy breathtaking views under the stars. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly facilities or a secluded escape, Kern Lake's diverse camping options ensure that every visitor can connect with nature in a unique and memorable way.
Mcgill Group Campground is located in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 3 min south of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 7,256 feet. There are a total of 73 campsites including 37 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of October. 30 sites can accommodate RVs between 14 and 35 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $30.00 to $150.00. Activities include biking, hiking trails.
Campo Alto Campground is located in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 27 min south of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 8,269 feet. There are a total of 19 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of May to the end of October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 25 and 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $30.00 to $150.00. Activities include biking.
Mt. Pinos Campground is located in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 8 min south of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 7,453 feet. There are a total of 19 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of October. Sites can accommodate RVs between 18 and 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Some amenities include restroom. Activities include biking, hiking trails.
Chuchupate Campground is located in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 34 min northeast of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 6,216 feet. There are a total of 29 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of May to the end of October. Sites can accommodate RVs between 20 and 26 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Activities include biking.
Ballinger Campground is located in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (2 hrs 1 min northeast of Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 3,118 feet. There are a total of 13 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 70 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Some amenities include restroom. Activities include biking, ohv allowed from campsite.
Pyramid Lake - Los Alamos Campground is located in the Los Angeles Gateway Ranger District, Angeles National Forest (44 min northwest of Santa Clarita, CA) with an elevation of 2,574 feet. There are a total of 93 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 25 and 35 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. 3 sites have water hookups. Fees range from $26.00 to $110.00. Some amenities include drinking water, dump station, playground, swimming, restroom, flush toilets. Activities include biking, boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.
Reyes Creek Campground is located in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (2 hrs 3 min north of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 3,906 feet. There are a total of 27 campsites including 15 tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. 11 sites can accommodate RVs between 20 and 50 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $30.00 to $150.00. Activities include biking, fishing.
Reyes Peak Campground is located in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 36 min north of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 7,061 feet. There are a total of 6 campsites which are all tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of October. Max equipment length is 25 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Activities include biking.
Pine Mountain Campground is located in the Ojai Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 31 min north of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 6,641 feet. There are a total of 7 campsites which are all tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of October. Max equipment length is 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Activities include biking.
Middle Lion Campground is located in the Ojai Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 7 min north of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 3,150 feet. There are a total of 8 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Activities include biking.
Rose Valley Campground is located in the Ojai Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr north of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 3,408 feet. There are a total of 9 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 30 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Some amenities include restroom. Activities include biking.
Sandy Flat Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 28 min northeast of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 2,383 feet. There are a total of 27 campsites including 3 tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. 24 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 50 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $32.00 to $120.00. Activities include fishing.
Wheeler Gorge Campground is located in the Ojai Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (40 min north of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 1,810 feet. There are a total of 66 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs between 15 and 45 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $35.00 to $70.00. Some amenities include swimming. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
Holiday Group is located in the Ojai Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (42 min north of San Buenaventura, CA) with an elevation of 2,098 feet. The site is open all year. Prices start at $150.00 per night. Some amenities include swimming. Activities include biking, hiking trails.
French Gulch Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 30 min northeast of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 2,678 feet. The site is normally open from the end of March to the end of October. Prices start at $405.00 per night.
Hungry Gulch Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 31 min northeast of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 2,667 feet. There are a total of 76 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the beginning of September. 2 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 30 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $32.00 per night. Some amenities include flush toilets.
Boulder Gulch Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 31 min northeast of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 2,601 feet. There are a total of 60 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of May to the end of September. 2 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 30 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $32.00 per night. Some amenities include flush toilets. Activities include hiking trails.
Paradise Cove Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 30 min northeast of Bakersfield, CA) with an elevation of 2,639 feet. There are a total of 51 campsites. The campground is open all year. 1 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $32.00 per night. Some amenities include dump station, flush toilets. Activities include boating, fishing, floating sports.
Poso Guard Station Cabin is located in the Western Divide Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr southeast of Porterville, CA) with an elevation of 4,572 feet. The site is open all year. Prices start at $176.00 per night.
John Whitehead Campground is part of Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park in California (just 17 min northwest of Delano, CA) with an elevation of 198 feet. There are a total of 15 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $20.00 per night. Some amenities include shower, accessible, restroom, flush toilets.
Nira Campground is located in the Santa Lucia Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 24 min northwest of Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 1,829 feet. There are a total of 12 campsites. The campground is open all year. 9 sites can accommodate RVs up to 24 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Activities include biking.
Davy Brown Campground is located in the Santa Lucia Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (1 hr 18 min northwest of Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 2,157 feet. There are a total of 13 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 60 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $30.00 per night. Activities include biking.
Upper Oso Campground is located in the Santa Barbara Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (37 min north of Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 2,368 feet. There are a total of 19 campsites including 5 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of November. 3 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 32 and 45 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $40.00 to $45.00. Some amenities include swimming. Activities include biking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Headquarters Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 52 min southeast of Porterville, CA) with an elevation of 2,780 feet. There are a total of 42 campsites including 13 tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. 27 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $32.00 to $100.00. Activities include boating, fishing, floating sports.
Carpinteria Campground is part of Carpinteria State Beach in California (just 18 min east of Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 7 feet. There are a total of 186 campsites including 1 tent-only site. The campground is open all year. 185 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 16 and 35 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. 91 sites have electric and water hookups. Fees range from $10.00 to $290.00. Some amenities include shower, accessible, swimming, restroom, amphitheater, ramada, flush toilets.
Halfway Group Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 53 min southeast of Porterville, CA) with an elevation of 2,816 feet. There are a total of 5 campsites. The campground is open all year. Max equipment length is 20 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $48.00 to $200.00.
Sage Hill Campground is located in the Santa Barbara Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (just 27 min northwest of Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 1,301 feet. There are a total of 5 campsites. The campground is open all year. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 99 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $150.00 per night. Some amenities include swimming. Activities include fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Camp Three Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 53 min southeast of Porterville, CA) with an elevation of 2,830 feet. There are a total of 50 campsites including 1 tent-only site. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. 49 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $32.00 to $122.00. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.
Thunderbird Group Campground is located in the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest (1 hr 54 min southeast of Porterville, CA) with an elevation of 2,869 feet. There are a total of 3 campsites which are all tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. Max equipment length is 20 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $48.00 to $120.00.
Los Prietos Campground is located in the Santa Barbara Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest (just 24 min northwest of Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 945 feet. There are a total of 37 campsites including 10 tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. 27 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 15 and 35 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $40.00 per night. Some amenities include swimming. Activities include biking, fishing.
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