Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield River Run RV Park's fenced dog area provides a dedicated space for pets to exercise while staying at one of several pet-friendly campgrounds in the Bakersfield area. Orange Grove RV Park, Kern River Campground, and Bear Mountain RV Park all welcome campers with dogs, offering full hookup sites for RVs and tent camping options. Bear Mountain RV Park features two separate dog parks where pets can play off-leash, while Bakersfield KOA Journey accommodates pets with designated pet relief areas. Most campgrounds require pets to be leashed when outside designated exercise areas, and owners must clean up after their animals. The sites typically include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to clean restrooms and showers. Many campers note the clean facilities at River Run RV Park make it particularly comfortable for extended stays with pets.
Hiking trails near Kern River Campground provide excellent opportunities for dog walking, with the adjacent bike path stretching over 50 miles along the river corridor. Bear Mountain RV Park's pet amenities receive positive reviews from travelers with dogs, particularly the grassy dog parks that offer relief from the predominantly sandy terrain. During summer months, temperatures in Bakersfield regularly exceed 100°F, requiring extra precautions for pets including morning or evening walks and constant access to shade and water. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours that apply to barking dogs, and excessive noise may result in being asked to leave. Veterinary services are available in Bakersfield proper, approximately 15-20 minutes from most camping locations. The Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area offers additional pet-friendly camping with water access, though dogs must remain leashed near the shoreline.