Best Tent Camping near Bakersfield, CA
Tent camping near Bakersfield includes several good spots within driving distance of the city. Cherry Creek Campground has tent sites set among trees that give you decent privacy from other campers. The tent pads have smooth, level ground that makes setup easy, and most spots are a short walk from the bathrooms. Trees provide good shade over many sites, which helps during hot California summers. Hobo Campground in Sequoia National Forest is another solid option with flat tent sites spaced far enough apart that you won't hear your neighbors' conversations. Most roads to these campgrounds stay in good condition year-round, though spring rains can create muddy sections that might slow you down. Bears and other wildlife roam these areas, so bring proper food storage containers and follow the posted rules about keeping your site clean. Both campgrounds have water available, but bringing extra is smart since supplies sometimes run low during busy weekends. You can reserve tent sites ahead of time online, which is worth doing since the better spots fill up quickly when the weather's nice. These camping areas sit far enough from Bakersfield to feel like you've escaped, but close enough for a quick weekend trip.
