Sequoia National Forest operates Fairview Campground along the upper Kern River, where campers can access both drive-in and boat-in sites during its May through November season. The Forest Service facility accommodates RVs up to 40 feet with water and sewer hookups, charging $36-38 per night for reserved spots.
Sites sit directly beside the fast-moving Kern River, with several positioned right at the water's edge for immediate access to fishing and floating activities. The campground lacks significant tree cover, leaving most sites exposed to sun and providing clear views of the surrounding terrain. Camp hosts maintain the restroom facilities, and firewood is available on-site. McNally's restaurant operates adjacent to the campground, offering meals when campers prefer not to cook.
River access draws many visitors for fishing, tubing, and rafting, though the current moves too quickly for swimming in most areas. The Packsaddle Trail begins directly from the campground, leading hikers to a cave system in the surrounding forest. Kristian H. notes "No cell reception, sounds of the river flowing and stars for miles" characterize the overnight experience.
Summer weekends bring crowds and noise, while spring and fall offer quieter conditions for those seeking a more relaxed stay. The location serves as a reliable base camp for exploring Southern Sierra activities, with pet-friendly camping near Sequoia National Forest welcomed throughout the facility.
Description
Overview
Fairview Campground sits in an area dotted with oak and gray pine along the Upper Kern River, a designated Wild and Scenic River, at an elevation of 3,500 feet.
Recreation
Whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Upper Kern River are popular activities. Visitors also enjoy plenty of hiking opportunities. There is direct access from the south end of the campground to several foot and mountain bike trails, including the 13-mile Whiskey Flat, 16-mile Flynn Canyon and 4-mile Tobies Trails. To learn more about the Upper Kern River, including safety and permitting requirements and a listing of local outfitters, visit the National Forest Service's overview of the area.
Facilities
The campground, located 13 miles north of Kernville, has 54 paved sites configured around three loops. Some sites have views of or direct access to the river. Picnic areas, vault toilets and drinking water are provided. There is a restaurant next to the campground.This facility is operated by Rocky Mountain Recreation Company (RMRC), a division of ExplorUS and comments are welcome; comment forms are available from campground hosts or directly at Rocky Mountain Recreation Company.
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 and Grizzly Falls. At various points along the river, gray pines, scrub oaks, grass and dry climate shrubs cling to steep canyon walls, while cottonwoods and willows line the water's edge.
Nearby Attractions
The campground provides a good base for day trips to the Sequoia National Park, Trail of 100 Giants, and numerous Sequoia groves in the Giant Sequoia National Monument. The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (760) 376-1269.
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 & DirectionsFairview Campground is located in California near Johnsondale
Directions
Off of 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. From Kernville go north on Sierra Way/Mountain 99 for 16 miles to the campground.
Address
PO BOX 1640
Kernville, CA 93238
Coordinates
35.928642 N
118.490765 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 25 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 2 hrs 12 min from Visalia, CA
- 2 hrs 22 min from Hanford, CA
- 2 hrs 44 min from Fresno, CA
