Cabin rentals near Bakersfield, California offer a welcome respite from summer temperatures that regularly exceed 100°F between June and September. Most cabins in this region sit at elevations between 2,500-4,500 feet, providing cooler mountain air compared to the valley floor. Winter visitors should prepare for significant temperature variations, with overnight lows sometimes dropping below freezing while daytime highs reach the 60s.
What to do
Fishing from shore access points: At Kern River County Park, anglers find productive trout fishing directly from campgrounds. "Great birds along the river, lots of ducks and egrets, and a bald eagle perched in a tree right above my site with its breakfish!" notes Caroline P., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities while fishing.
Float the creeks during hot months: Reyes Creek Campground features a gentle creek perfect for cooling off. According to Chelsea B., "Some camp spots are right on the creek and the running water is a peaceful background noise for your trip." For a more adventurous floating experience, KRS RV Resort@Camp James offers tubing opportunities: "We were able to float down the river in our inner tubes safely. We were told May to June the river is very high in this area," explains David H.
Explore ghost towns: Near Reyes Creek Campground, visitors can explore abandoned settlements. "The abandoned town is a 3 minute walk from camp and really interesting," shares Chelsea B., making this an easy historical side trip during your cabin stay.
What campers like
Cabin proximity to town amenities: Many visitors appreciate cabins located near towns for supply runs. Jeff G. notes about Camp Kernville: "The park is right near downtown and you can walk to cafe's, bakery, shops and market." This walkable access proves valuable for forgotten items or dining options.
On-site recreation facilities: For families with children seeking cabin camping near Bakersfield, consider properties with built-in entertainment. At Lake Isabella-Kern River KOA, according to Nick B., "They have a wonderful pool and splash pad for the kids...They do movie nights and pancakes on certain days."
Spacious cabin sites: At Reyes Creek Campground, many cabins offer generous outdoor space. Chelsea B. explains, "We ended up in group site 1 due to Covid they can't have big groups and it was spacious and great for our doggos to have a big area." This extra space allows for comfortable outdoor relaxation.
What you should know
Advanced planning required: Most cabin rentals require substantial advance booking, especially during summer. Amber D. warns about Camp James: "Book way in advance though. You can get a site right on the river with no sewage hook ups or get all hook ups off the river."
Road conditions to remote cabins: Some cabin rentals require traveling difficult roads. For Oak Flat Lookout, Delia M. cautions, "This is a great spot to camp but you will need a 4-wheel drive to get there. The road is very sketch for the last mile to get to the lookout."
Toilet facilities vary significantly: When choosing cabin accommodations, verify bathroom facilities. Viktoria B. notes about Reyes Creek: "There is no running water, and the pit toilets are definitely of the smellier side, but clean nevertheless." Many cabins require guests to use shared restroom facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly water features: When cabin camping with children near Bakersfield during hot months, water access becomes essential. At KRS RV Resort@Camp James, David H. reports: "The creek was great to sit in to escape the heat and float down. Lots of kids and dog friendly."
Look for structured activities: Some cabin rentals provide organized recreation. Sara S. appreciated the amenities at Lake Isabella-Kern River KOA: "Everything was great about this campground. Showers, phones service, WiFi, showers and locks with passcode on the bathroom doors and a pool just to name a few things."
Consider proximity to multiple activities: Songdog Ranch offers cabin options with access to diverse activities. Esther Y. recommends: "During springtime, the wildflowers are beautiful. Site also has unique glamping options...Would recommend visiting during the cooler months as it's an open plain."
Tips from RVers
Verify cabin hookups: For guests planning extended stays, electrical hookups may determine comfort levels. At The Little Brave House, Ashley F. notes, "This little house is just that, little and so sweet! This host has really thought of it all. Fun lawn games, a projector to watch a movie, and a little bathroom."
Consider shade availability: Summer cabin camping near Bakersfield requires attention to shade. Ricky S. observed at Lake Isabella-Kern River KOA: "Overall nice site with full hookups & wi-fi/cell. Had a nice shade tree but it can be real sunny without one."
Check reception in remote areas: Cell service varies dramatically in mountain cabin areas. Jenny S. from Songdog Ranch shares: "Cell service was fine and I felt perfectly safe as a solo female! I really enjoyed the ranch dogs coming to hang out with me!"
