Keysville South Recreation Site, near Lake Isabella, California, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with some convenient amenities. It’s right next to the Kern River, making it a prime location for fishing and hiking, with trails that cater to various skill levels.

The site offers drinking water, electric hookups, and sanitary dump facilities, which campers appreciate for making their stay more comfortable. Many visitors have noted the beautiful scenery and the reliable cell service, which is a bonus if you need to stay connected. One camper mentioned, “Great, reliable Verizon service,” highlighting that you can still catch up on things while enjoying nature.

If you’re into mountain biking, you’re in luck! The area is known for its trails, and there’s even an annual mountain bike race that draws in enthusiasts. Just a few miles from town, you can easily grab supplies or enjoy a meal out if you want a break from cooking. While some campers have pointed out that the road access can be a bit rough, it’s manageable for most vehicles.

Just keep in mind that this spot has its quirks, and it’s best to keep your belongings secure while you’re out exploring. Whether you’re here for a weekend adventure or a longer stay, Keysville South offers a mix of relaxation and outdoor fun.

Keysville (formerly Keyesville) is a historic mining area that offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Set in rolling terrain amidst a blue oak and foothill pine woodland, Keysville is dissected by the lower Kern River. A little exploration can turn up a wealth of historic resources, including a variety of mining structures and features, a historic fort, and the famous Walker Cabin. Keysville offers commercial and noncommercial white-water rafting opportunities as well as fishing, recreational gold panning, and dispersed camping. A network of over seventy miles of trails provides for mountain biking, equestrian, and motorized recreation use.

All motorized use is limited to designated roads and trails. For a map of Keysville area designated routes, see https://www.blm.gov/documents/california/public-room/map/keysville-recreation-management-area.

Keysville South Recreation Site

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Lake Isabella, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Lake Isabella is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near Lake Isabella, reviewed by campers like you.

Lake Isabella

The Best Camping Near Lake Isabella, California

 The hubs, kids and myself  have spent a lot of time in Keysville if you're looking for a weekend getaway for mountain biking or trail riding this is the place! Some of the best free riding in California! Highly recommend keyesville to everyone!  Town is just a few miles away if you should need anything. 

Single track Ahoy! 

The keyesville classic mountain bike race is held every year in the area! With miles of trails and perfect single track for all age groups and abilities!

Free camping with amazing trails

Beautiful spot conveniently located only a couple miles outside of town. Dumpsters and put toilets provided on both sides of the Kern River. A larger group site on one side and dispersed sites on the other. Great, reliable Verizon service. Road access is rough in some places, but passable in our low-clearance rig. Days are typically windy so tenters beware. Some of the sites on the dispersed side could use some TLC, but for the price you can't complain. Seems like a great fishing spot, and there do appear to be hiking trails in the area. Glad we made the trip out, if we pass it again we will definitely stay again!

Beautiful spot right on the Kern River

Help a lot.

We were robbed from this location while out hiking and rafting for the day. Lost thousands of dollars in gear, clothes and personal items. Literally everything was gone, they plucked up the whole tent and took it all, nothing left but some tent stakes once we returned. The location is convenient 
to town and it is nice next to the river BUT BEWARE and don’t leave ANYTHING. We have a feeling it’s people who know the area and do quick grab and goes, not other campers.

Photos of Keysville South Recreation Site

Real photos from real campers