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Dispersed Camping

Ant Canyon

4 Reviews

Ant Canyon, near Kernville, California, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This area offers a laid-back vibe with the freedom to camp without the hassle of reservations or fees, making it a popular choice for spontaneous getaways.

The scenery here is stunning, with snowcapped peaks towering above and the Kern River flowing nearby. Campers can enjoy a range of activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming, with plenty of spots right by the water. As one visitor put it, “We tied up some tubes in the river and played in the water,” highlighting the fun to be had in the refreshing currents.

While there are no fancy amenities, you’ll find portable toilets and a dumpster for trash disposal, so be sure to pack out what you bring in. Wildlife is abundant, with curious birds and playful squirrels during the day, and beavers making an appearance in the evening. Campers have even spotted skunks, adding a bit of charm to the experience.

If you need supplies, the Kern General Store is just a short drive away, stocked with everything from camping gear to snacks. And don’t miss the Kern Brewery for a tasty meal and local brews after a day of adventure. With its beautiful surroundings and relaxed atmosphere, Ant Canyon is sure to become a favorite spot for many.

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Location

Ant Canyon is located in California

Coordinates

35.8857403 N
118.4582804 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

WiFi
Unknown
Verizon
Unknown
AT&T
Available
T-Mobile
Available

Site Types

Dispersed

Features

For Campers

Trash
Firewood Available
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 19 min from Bakersfield
2 hrs 16 min from Visalia
2 hrs 24 min from Hanford
2 hrs 46 min from Fresno

Kimberly

Guide

Reviewed Mar. 1, 2022

Lots to do! Hiking, fishing, swimming.

Stayed here 2 nights. Just far enough outside of town. We stayed when it wasn't so packed. Tied up some tubes in the river and played in the water. Lots of hiking and beautiful scenery.

Month of VisitApril

(4) View All

Charlie C.

Guide

Reviewed Nov. 21, 2020

One of my favorites.

Snowcapped peaks up high and rushing water below. The pull off has plenty of parking but I was surprised to find people set up next to their cars, granted there was only one other camping party there. So many openings and sites next to the water, only rule is that fires and tents have to be 25ft from the water. No big deal, plenty of room. Two well kept porta potty’s and a dumpster are located in the parking lot and are not a far walk from any of the sites. Hang your trash in a tree or walk it to the dumpster before you go to bed, had to figure that the hard way. Lots of curious birds and squirrels watching you during the day. In the evening/late day that area of the river is LOADED with beavers. Watching them swim around and nibble on branches is memorizing, amazing creatures. At night time you get another variety of animals. We made friends with a couple of skunks. This area has the traditional and familiar stripped skunk and one that is newer to me, the spotted skunk. They’re so cute, more like ferrets. We named him Farley because “HE LIVES UNDER A ROCK...DOWN BY THE RIVER!”. At night, amazing view of the stars! No light pollution granted I went on a new moon. On your way in or out don’t forget to stop in the quaint town of Kernsville. If you need ANYTHING, you can get it at the Kern General Store. You could literally go there with nothing and buy any camping equipment at the General Store.

Lastly, do yourself a favor and stop in the Kern Brewery for some suds and food. I personally got the tri-tip sandwich and a flight of their finest beer. Delicious!!98

Overall, fantastic spot. Will definitely become one of my regular haunts! -Chuck

P.S. Don’t forget, always leave the area better than you found it!

tip: Park your car and before you unload, explore down the hill by the Kern River to find a great spot!

(6) View All

Taylor

Ranger

Reviewed Nov. 20, 2020

FCFS

Plenty of spots and group sites. It was really pretty but there were quite a few bugs. They went away after dark though

Jessica P.

Legend

Reviewed Aug. 23, 2019

Best place to get away from the city!

First off this place is a bit hard to find, but there is a sign on the right and if you miss that sign then you probably won’t find this spot. Overall I recommend going super early because there is always neighbors around and the best spot is next to the big rocks which is a bit secluded from the other campgrounds. There is plenty of shade there unlike the other spots. I like camping here because you can just walk down to the river which is always enjoyable. We always catch great fish here trout, catfish, bass.

-Open year round.

-Reservations: First come first served. Free of charge.

-Permit Info: Campfire Permits required for campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves.

Best Season: Summer Busiest Season: Summer

Restrictions: Camping is permitted 25 feet away from waters edge.

Water: No Restroom: Portable Toilets

No garbage service so pack all your trash out.

I provided a photo of a camper who left all there trash there. If you see that make sure to take pics of their license plates.