Located in the Sequoia National Forest, Bodfish sits at approximately 2,700 feet elevation in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F, while winters bring cooler conditions with occasional snowfall at higher elevations. Kern River flows through the region, creating variable camping conditions depending on seasonal water levels and flow rates.
What to do
Float the creek at Camp James: The campground features a small creek running through the middle that's perfect for tubing during summer months. "We stayed in site 81 in our class C RV. Corner site on a creek that ran through the campground. The creek was great to sit in to escape the heat and float down," reports a visitor at KRS RV Resort@Camp James.
Fishing at riverside spots: Multiple campgrounds offer direct river access for fishing enthusiasts. "There is great trout fishing right off the property, and the bathrooms have always been well kept and clean," notes a regular camper at Camp James, who has been returning for over 10 years.
Visit the Trail of 100 Giants: Located within driving distance of Bodfish glamping sites, this iconic sequoia grove makes for an excellent day trip. "It is about an hour drive to Trail of 100 Giants Sequoia Trees," mentions one camper who stayed at Camp James while exploring the region's natural attractions.
What campers like
River proximity: Many campers value sites that put them steps from the Kern River. "The river front campsites are awesome and have a great size. There's plenty of shade (which is rare for the area), and the section of river is so fun," writes a visitor about Headquarters Campground.
Well-maintained grounds: Clean facilities rank high on campers' priority lists. "The campground is very clean and well maintained. Kernville is less than a mile away where you can get gas diesel groceries firewood or anything else you might have forgotten," notes a reviewer at Camp James.
Camp activities: Some locations organize special events for guests. "This campground even offers activities for the whole family, movie night, bingo, even rock painting. This will be our go-to campground every year," shares a camper about their experience at Camp Three Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites near Bodfish fill quickly, especially riverfront locations. "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," advises a regular visitor to the area.
River safety concerns: The Kern River can be dangerous, particularly during high-water seasons. "Depending on the level of the river it can be very noisy. Great if you want to be right next to the river," explains a camper at Kern's River Edge Campground, noting the variable conditions.
Seasonal considerations: River conditions change dramatically throughout the year. "We were told May to June the river is very high in this area," shares a camper who visited in August when water levels were lower and safer for families with young children.
Tips for camping with families
Creek options for children: Look for campgrounds with gentler water features. "The kids loved tubing down it all day. In front of us was the river. Gorgeous views," describes a family who stayed at a creekside spot with safer water play options than the main river.
Splash pad alternative: For safer water play, consider KOA facilities. "They have a wonderful pool and splash pad for the kids. The staff was amazing!" explains a visitor to Lake Isabella-Kern River KOA, highlighting amenities beyond natural water features.
Check site location carefully: Some family-friendly sites offer better protection from road noise and traffic. "Our site was VERY close to the main road which made me nervous with our young children," cautions a parent who stayed at Hospital Flat, recommending more interior sites for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds advertise RV compatibility but have difficult access. "The road through the campground is very narrow, and lined with large boulders. Some of the turns are very tight. For tent camping, though? Great spot," warns an RVer about Hospital Flat.
Hookup location trade-offs: Many riverside glamping spots near Bodfish require choosing between premium location and full amenities. "The RV sights with full hooks up are further away from the river about 200 yards," notes a camper describing the layout at Camp James.
Amenities for extended stays: For longer glamping experiences, consider sites with extra comforts. "The WIFI was good to stream TV and ATT cell service was good too. The sites had power, water and cable TV hook up. There is a dump station in the campground," describes an RVer who enjoyed a comfortable 5-day stay.
