Established Camping
Kirch Flat Group Campground — Sierra National Forest
Kirch Flat Group Campground, near Shaver Lake, California, is a solid choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the comforts of designated camping sites. With fire rings and vault toilets available, it strikes a balance between rustic charm and essential amenities.
This campground is right next to the Kings River, providing a soothing soundtrack of rushing water that many campers rave about. The area is known for its wildlife, so expect to hear the sounds of raccoons, skunks, and various birds during your stay. As one visitor noted, “The sounds of the rushing water reach the campground and make for easy sleeping.”
While the sites are relatively close together, the surrounding scenery offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. You can find a small beach nearby, perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing by the water. If you're up for a challenge, there are steep service roads that lead to higher elevations with stunning views and even some cell service if you need to check in.
For those who enjoy fishing or simply soaking in the beauty of the outdoors, Kirch Flat is a great spot. Just keep in mind that it can get quite warm in the summer, so plan accordingly. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, this campground has a lot to offer for a memorable outdoor experience.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Sierra National Forest
Overview
At approximately 1,000 feet in elevation, Kirch Flat Campground resides on a large flat area on the river___s edge of the scenic Kings River and is surrounded by rolling, oak-covered foothills and spectacular river canyon and mountain views of the Sierra Nevada. Though it can be very hot in the summer months, Kirch Flat Group Campground is a great place to camp during the spring and fall months and is popular with San Joaquin Valley residents, fisherman, day users, and whitewater enthusiasts who come to enjoy many challenging rapids and beautiful canyon scenery of the King___s River.__ A good amount of shade is provided by oak and pine trees throughout the area; however, there is no running water or cell service at the campground. Campers are encouraged to bring their own garbage bags, always keep a clean campsite, and keep trash and food packed up so wildlife is not tempted.____ The nearest services are in Sanger, a decently sized town about 45 miles (1 hour 20 min.) away, with all essential services (i.e., gas, supplies, groceries, restaurants, etc.). Although there is no cell phone coverage at the campground, there is a location with cell phone reception approximately 10 minutes away or the nearest pay phone is at Balch Camp, a PG & E community about a 10-minute drive.__ Watch out for rattlesnakes and poison oak. Poison Oak abounds in this area. Please avoid plants with three leaf clusters: "Leaves of three, let it be!"
Recreation
The Kings River offers an enjoyable ten-mile rafting run with Class III and IV rapids. Rafting season is usually from late April to mid-July depending on river runoff. No permit is required to raft the river. The Kings River is a 1 1/2 hour drive east of Fresno towards Pine Flat Reservoir via the Trimmer Springs Road. Put ins are available at Winfrey Mine and Garnet Dike up river from Kirch Flat Group Campground.____ There are several commercial outfitters that are permitted with the Sierra National Forest, for commercial trips on the Kings River. Please contact the High Sierra Ranger District for more information.__ A short walk from the Group Campground puts you on the edge of the Kings River, cooling off from the heat or working the water's edge fishing are popular activities. Please always use caution as the rivers current can be stronger than realized.__ There are several hikes available in the area, including hiking up the Kings River to the wild and scenic portion of the river. To get the trail head, continue driving upriver from the campground past Garnet Dike put in, shortly after the vault toilet there the road ends at the trailhead.
Facilities
The Kings River offers an enjoyable ten-mile rafting run with Class III and IV rapids. Rafting season is usually from late April to mid-July depending on river runoff. No permit is required to raft the river. The Kings River is a 1 1/2 hour drive east of Fresno towards Pine Flat Reservoir via the Trimmer Springs Road. Put ins are available at Winfrey Mine and Garnet Dike up river from Kirch Flat Group Campground.____ There are several commercial outfitters that are permitted with the Sierra National Forest, for commercial trips on the Kings River. Please contact the High Sierra Ranger District for more information.__ A short walk from the Group Campground puts you on the edge of the Kings River, cooling off from the heat or working the water's edge fishing are popular activities. Please always use caution as the rivers current can be stronger than realized.__ There are several hikes available in the area, including hiking up the Kings River to the wild and scenic portion of the river. To get the trail head, continue driving upriver from the campground past Garnet Dike put in, shortly after the vault toilet there the road ends at the trailhead.
Natural Features
The Kings River as it pours out of Kings Canyon and into the foothills is the big draw to this area. Upriver from the campgrounds and developed recreation sites, the river is designated by congress as wild and scenic. At the campground, the river is just about to enter Pine Flat reservoir, however there is no motorized boat access from the reservoir.__ The Sierra Nevada foothills are incredibly beautiful in the spring as the grasses green up and the native orange California poppies paint the hill sides, along with other wildflowers.__
contact_info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (559) 855-5355.
Fee Info
Reservation fee is $8.
Location
Kirch Flat Group Campground — Sierra National Forest is located in California
Directions
Take Belmont Avenue east from Fresno. Follow Belmont Avenue until it turns into Trimmer Springs Road. Continue on Trimmer Springs Road past the community of Piedra and all the way around Pine Flat Reservoir. Campground is located at the extreme east end of the lake where the Kings River merges into Pine Flat Reservior (dependent on water level). Driving time from Fresno is approximately 1 1/2 hours.
Coordinates
36.87921576 N
119.1490899 W
Access
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups