This is the HEADLINE

Western

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

Yosemite. The redwoods. Big Sur. World-famous outdoor destinations abound in California. There are so many that you couldn’t possibly explore all the richness the state offers in one lifetime. The trick when camping in California is managing so many possibilities. Once you've visited the famous sites, try some creative approaches to camping in California.


When you think Napa Valley, you think of wine, not camping. But you can plan a wine vacation from behind the flap of your tent. Set up in one of the valley’s campgrounds then visit the many casual tasting rooms that won't mind dirt under your fingernails.  When you tire of drinking wine, hike Mt. St Helena, a dormant volcano. Or walk through the Petrified Forest, a forest that was turned to stone by the last eruption of the volcano. Or visit California’s Old Faithful, a nearby geyser.


Once you have found camping in California’s Half Dome in Yosemite Valley, center yourself in Tuolumne Meadows, a more remote section of the park with its own collection of charming granite domes. Here's a secret: Instead of joining the crowds of day hikers on the meadow's most popular trails, follow the backpackers north on the famed John Muir Trail. The trail meanders through meadows, along a river below alpine peaks. And best of all, the first 8 miles of this trail out of Tuolumne are flat. Hike until you find a spot to watch the marmots, then return to your campsite. For more, backpack another 23 miles to Reds Meadow where you can catch a shuttle back up to Tuolumne.


With a little effort, you can spend the rest of your life camping in California and have a new adventure every time.

California

The Best Camping in California | 100+ CA Campgrounds

Join the fun near Bodfish. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Bodfish

The Best Camping Near Bodfish, California

Trailer camping 1.1 miles from U.S National Forest. Horse riding 4 miles up at White River forest entrance. There's also a horse entrance 1.5 miles through private road to be in the national forest. Camp site is huge and would probably hold 5 RV's but only one related group at a time.  The total land is 2.36 acres and the land below the parking area is part of the property and can be used to relax, walk around, or let dogs chase rabbits:). Views for miles and a peaceful place to relax in the Sequoias. Night view of city lights below in San Joaquin Valley. Pull in and have the place to yourself. There's no onsite manager but there is someone within a mile of the property if there are needs or issues. The entrance to the property is best for 32 foot or under camper unless you're a miracle worker:).

 Trailer Camping with View

Rivernook Campground is the biggest privately owned campground along a beautiful stretch of the Kern River, with creeks running through the park. We offer Full Hook Up RV sites, Partial RV sites and dry tent camping sites. We have full service newly remodeled restrooms for our guests at no charge, on site dump station, cable, WIFI and we have a little store that might have something you need! 

Rivernook Campground

## Overview

Sandy Flat Campground is set back from the Lower Kern River at an altitude of 2,300 feet near the town of Lake Isabella. Campsites are a short walk from the river, offering countless recreational opportunities for visitors. 

## Recreation

Hiking, trout fishing, river wading and floating are popular pursuits. The Hobo Fishing Trail, a short walking trail, is nearby.   
  
[Click here](http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia/recreation/visitor-guide/lowe-kern-river.html) to learn more about the Lower Kern River, including safety and permitting requirements and a listing of local outfitters.

## Facilities

Campsites are set along one loop in largely open sites. Large boulders, relics of the ice age, are scattered throughout the campground. River access is in the day camp area. Drinking water, picnic areas and vault toilets are provided.   
  
This facility is operated by Sequoia Recreation, a division of California Land Management and comments are welcome; comment forms are available from campground hosts or online.

## Natural Features

The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the Forest's lower slopes.   
  
The Forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. 

## Nearby Attractions

  
  
The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.

Sandy Flat

## Overview

Boulder Gulch Campground is nestled in the foothills of the high desert at an elevation of 2,650 feet, just a short drive from Lake Isabella. The facility sits in the Giant Sequoia National Monument, offering countless recreational opportunities for visitors.

## Recreation

At the nearby Lake Isabella visitors enjoy trout and bass fishing, boating, windsurfing, swimming and water skiing.   
  
There are also hiking, horseback and mountain biking trails in the area.

## Facilities

This campground consists of about 58 paved sites and includes a fish cleaning station and flush toilets.   
  
The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.   
  
This facility is operated by Sequoia Recreation, a division of California Land Management and comments are welcome; comment forms are available from campground hosts or online.

## Natural Features

The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the Forest's lower slopes.   
  
The Forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls, such as Salmon Creek Falls near Fairview and Grizzly Falls on the Kings River.

Boulder Gulch

## Overview

Camp 9, a year-round facility, rests on the shores of Lake Isabella, a high desert reservoir. Its proximity to the lake and the Upper Kern River makes the facility popular among boaters, rafters and anglers. The camp is also a favorite among RV campers, with ample parking available to accommodate both trailers and motorized watercraft.

## Recreation

Anglers enjoy fishing on both Lake Isabella and the Upper Kern River. Boating, kayaking and swimming are also popular activities. A seasonal boat ramp and dock are available within the day use area in the campground.

## Facilities

Camp 9 offers over 100 single campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally 11 group sites are available by reservation. Some sites are on the lakeshore, while others are set further back but have views of the lake. A few cottonwood trees are found in the campground, but shade is limited; plan on bringing protection.   
  
The group sites offer two picnic tables each, campfire rings, portable toilets, and paved parking. Group sites 1, 2 and 6-11 have drinking water. Group sites 1 and 2 have shade shelters. Sites 1-5 each have a locked gate for security.   
  
An RV dump station ($10 fee), fish cleaning station and boat ramp with floating dock are also available within Camp 9 Recreation Area. 

## Natural Features

The campground sits on the north shore of Lake Isabella, an 11,000-acre reservoir, at an elevation of 2,600 feet and is a short drive to the Upper Kern River.   
  
In the spring and early summer, a breeze can come up in the afternoons, but the mornings are quiet and calm. Fall and winter are perhaps the most beautiful time of year at Camp 9, with temperatures ranging from the 60s in the day to low 40s at night.   
  
Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, is named for the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the forest's lower slopes. The forest encompasses about 1.1 million acres. Elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls, such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Upper Kern River is a short drive away, with additional fishing opportunities. Rafters and kayakers also enjoy the river.

Camp 9

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.

Travel Responsibly - on designated roads and trails or in permitted areas

Respect The Rights of Others - including private property owners and all recreational trail users, campers and others to allow them to enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed.
Educate Yourself - by obtaining travel maps and regulations from public agencies, planning for your trip, taking recreation skills classes and knowing how to use and operate your equipment safely.
Avoid Sensitive Areas - such as meadows, lakeshores, wetlands and streams, unless on designated routes.
Do Your Part - by leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species, restoring degraded areas and joining a local enthusiast organization.

https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/documents/files/Keysville%20arch%20E%20low%20res.pdf

Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed

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

Southern Sierra Pass, Interagency Annual, Senior, Access, Volunteer and Military Passes are accepted at Old Isabella Road Recreation Site. Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

Old Isabella Road Recreation Site

## Overview

Headquarters Campground is situated along the Kern River, 6 miles north of the town of Kernville. Hiking, fishing, kayaking and rafting are popular activities.

## Recreation

Hiking, fishing, kayaking and rafting are popular activities in the Upper Kern River area. [Click here](http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia/recreation/visitor-guide/upper-kern-river.html) to learn more about the area, including safety and permitting requirements and a listing of local outfitters.

## Facilities

Headquarters Campground offers a mix of standard, RV and tent-only sites. Picnic tables and campfire rings are provided, as are vault toilets and drinking water.

## Natural Features

The campground sits within Sequoia National Forest at an elevation of 2,800 feet in an open area overlooking the Kern Wild and Scenic River. Some sites overlook the river and lie in the shade of oak, juniper and cottonwood trees. Sites sitting further from the river are more open and have little to no shade.   
  
Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, is named for the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the forest's lower slopes.   
  
The forest comprises about 1.1 million acres. Elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail begins just north of Kernville. The trail stretches 11.5 miles as it climbs through mixed pine and fir forest to Cannell Meadow and a historic Forest Service cabin built between 1904 and 1909. Hikers are awarded beautiful views of the Kern River Valley along the trip.   
  
Visitors enjoy making day trips to Sequoia National Park and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

Long Meadow Group

HOBO CAMPGROUND IS CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO ROAD WASHOUT (2018) Hobo Campground is on the Lower Kern River southwest of Lake Isabella. It has 35 individual family sites. Maximum of 22 foot RV length, but is unsuitable for trailers. Vault toilets available onsite. No water available. 

Hobo Campground (CLOSED)

Los Angeles is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Los Angeles is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Los Angeles

The Best Camping Near Los Angeles, California

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near San Diego. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near San Diego, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

San Diego

The Best Camping in San Diego | California Campgrounds

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, San Jose, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. San Jose is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near San Jose, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

San Jose

The Best Camping Near San Jose, California

The hub city of California’s Bay Area wins in waterfront beauty and access to Yosemite National Park for camping and hiking. While the city is a major tourist draw, water sports lovers will appreciate the abundance of opportunities.

There aren’t any major campgrounds in San Francisco itself, as you may expect, though Half Moon Bay State Beach is just south of the city, near San Mateo, CA. If you’re traveling north up the coast, you’ll find the Point Reyes National Seashore to your liking. There is only one campground with 14 sites, however. There are no RV or car-accessible spots, and all campsites are tent-only and walk-in. If you’re looking for the best camping near San Francisco, Point Reyes is probably still your most convenient option.

San Francisco

San Francisco, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near San Francisco, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping in San Francisco | CA Camping

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Fresno, CA has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Fresno, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Fresno

The Best Camping Near Fresno, CA | California Campgrounds

Where the American and Sacramento Rivers meet is some of the best camping in California. Near Sacramento, CA, campers can experience life during the 1840s Gold Rush and tour the museums before heading to their campsites for the night. RVers will find plenty of campgrounds where they can pull in and find the amenities they need. Stay close to the city and its attractions or closer to the coast. On the water you can spend the day fishing, boating, and swimming. Your camping adventures in the area can include horseback riding along the trails or a visit to a local farm complete with a family-friendly petting zoo.

Sacramento

The Best Camping Near Sacramento | CA Camping

Long Beach is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Long Beach, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Long Beach camping trip.

Long Beach

The Best Camping Near Long Beach, California

Looking for the best campgrounds near Oakland, CA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Oakland

The Best Camping Near Oakland, California

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Bakersfield, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Bakersfield is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Bakersfield

The Best Bakersfield Camping | California Campgrounds

Looking for the best campgrounds near Anaheim, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Anaheim and user-submitted reviews.

Anaheim

The Best Camping Near Anaheim, California

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Inyo National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Inyo National Forest campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Inyo National Forest

The Best Camping Near Inyo National Forest, California

Tahoe National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Tahoe National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Tahoe National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Tahoe National Forest

The Best Camping Near Tahoe National Forest, California

Six Rivers National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Six Rivers National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Six Rivers National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Six Rivers National Forest

The Best Camping Near Six Rivers National Forest, California

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Eldorado National Forest, CA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Eldorado National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Eldorado National Forest

The Best Camping Near Eldorado National Forest, California

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Los Padres National Forest, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Los Padres National Forest camping trip.

Los Padres National Forest

The Best Camping Near Los Padres National Forest, California

Join the fun near Lassen National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Lassen National Forest. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Lassen National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Lassen National Forest

The Best Camping Near Lassen National Forest, California

Join the fun near Stanislaus National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Stanislaus National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Stanislaus National Forest

The Best Camping Near Stanislaus National Forest, California

Are you in need of a campground near Angeles National Forest, CA? Angeles National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Angeles National Forest

The Best Camping Near Angeles National Forest, California

San Bernardino National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. San Bernardino National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near San Bernardino National Forest, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

San Bernardino National Forest

The Best Camping Near San Bernardino National Forest, California

Modoc National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Modoc National Forest, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

THE BEST CAMPING NEARBodfish, California

About Bodfish Camping

Top Bodfish Campgrounds