River enthusiasts find direct access to the Kern River at Camp Three Campground, where swimming holes and fishing spots sit just minutes from most campsites. This US Forest Service campground operates seasonally from late May through mid-September along the Kern River corridor in Sequoia National Forest, accommodating RVs up to 40 feet with water hookups available at select sites.
The 47 sites vary considerably in quality and river proximity. Sites 25, 27, 28, 29, and 30 offer flat tent areas under trees with short walks to the water, while sites closer to the day-use area provide more space but less privacy. Paul N. notes the "best sites are right next to the river" with good privacy depending on location. Site 47 receives particular praise for its dual shaded areas and immediate river access, though it sits adjacent to the day-use entry point.
The campground provides standard amenities including pit toilets, drinking water, and picnic tables, though some reviewers mention maintenance issues with certain tables and benches. Cell service varies throughout the area. Trash disposal is limited to one location at the exit. Road access connects to nearby hiking and biking trails, plus OHV areas for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts.
Campers seeking additional options can explore campsites near Sequoia National Forest for different river access points and terrain types.
Description
Overview
Camp Three Campground is set amidst oak and locust trees at an elevation of 2,800 feet on the Upper Kern River, offering countless recreational opportunities for visitors.
Recreation
Hiking, fishing, kayaking and rafting are popular activities in the Upper Kern River area.
Facilities
The campground consists of 52 paved sites and a group camp that accommodates up to 30 people for friends or family gatherings. Drinking water, vault toilets, and campfire rings are all provided.This facility is operated by Rocky Mountain Recreation Company, a division of ExplorUS and comments are welcome; comment forms are available from campground hosts or online.
Natural Features
The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the Forest's lower slopes. The Forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls, such as Salmon Creek Falls near Fairview and Grizzly Falls on the Kings River. Gray pines, scrub oaks, grass and dry climate shrubs cling to steep, canyon walls while cottonwoods and willows line the river's edge.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (760) 376-1269.
Nearby Attractions
The Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trailhead is just north of Kernville. Day trips include the Sequoia National Park, Trail of a Hundred Giants, and numerous sequoia groves in the Sequoia National Monument. The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
- To protect natural resources and provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited below 5,000 feet in elevation within the Sequoia National Forest.1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, except in the designated Campfire Areas listed in Exhibits A, B or C. C.F.R. 261.52(a).2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building or within the areas listed in Exhibits A, B or C. 36 C.F.R. 261.52(d).3. Operating an internal combustion engine, except on a designated National Forest System road, trail, or within the areas listed in Exhibits A, B or C. 36 C.F.R. 261.52(g).4. Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame, except within the areas listed in Exhibits A, B or C. Alert Start Date: June 10, 2026 Alert End Date: November 30, 2026
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCamp Three Campground is located in California near Kernville
Directions
From Highway 99 in Bakersfield, California, take Highway 178 east to Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella take Highway 155 around the west side of the lake to the town of Kernville. Turn north on Sierra Way/Mountain 99 and continue 5 miles to the campground.
Address
PO BOX 1640
Kernville, CA 93238
Coordinates
35.809269 N
118.453606 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/15/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/24/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/15/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/24/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Yurts
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 10 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 2 hrs 7 min from Visalia, CA
- 2 hrs 15 min from Hanford, CA
- 2 hrs 37 min from Fresno, CA

















