Black Gulch on Kern River

Black Gulch on Kern River offers camping near the Kern River in California, surrounded by rugged terrain and riverbanks. Temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Sequoia National Forest and Lake Isabella, providing opportunities for hiking and water activities.

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Map & DirectionsBlack Gulch on Kern River is located in California near Bodfish

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

35.59164036 N
118.5218625 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/14/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 6/12/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/12/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/14/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 6/12/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/12/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Features

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DISPERSED CAMPING

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.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Black Gulch on Kern River needs a permit.

Drive Time


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Reviews1 Camper Review - Black Gulch on Kern River

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4.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed May. 3, 2026

Gorgeous views, deep sand, 4x4 recommended

The site itself is gorgeous, right on the river with space for a handful of groups. My rwd made it all the way there with few issues, but the sand at the actual site is much softer than anywhere else on the drive and I had to be pulled out. Highly recommend a 4x4.

SiteUnmarked
Month of VisitMay

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there cell phone reception at Black Gulch on Kern River?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is excellent coverage for AT&T, excellent coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.