RV campgrounds near California Hot Springs sit at elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cooler winters with occasional snow at higher elevations. Campgrounds in this region feature varying terrain from valley locations with citrus groves to mountain settings with sequoia trees.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Kern River provides numerous fishing opportunities near Rivernook Campground. "Great fishing spots all over the campground. And access to floating in your tubes and hanging out at beaches in the campground," notes Stacie G. Water levels vary seasonally, with spring offering higher flows.
Tubing and floating: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for water activities. "We stayed on the southern end of the campground site #102 and we walked to the northern end and floated down the river back to our site with a nice cold beer in hand," shares Mike N. about his experience at Rivernook Campground.
Sequoia National Park visits: Located about 8 miles from the park entrance, Sequoia RV Ranch serves as a convenient base for exploring giant sequoias. "The greatest part was the proximity to Sequoia/Kings Canyon (8 miles to the entrance)," writes Erin A., who stayed during Easter week when the campground was completely full.
What campers like
Natural swimming holes: Some campgrounds feature swimming areas fed by natural springs. "There's a nice little creek/waterfall on site and pond," mentions Cristina H. about Nelson Falls RV Park, adding that her family had "a great experience tent camping here."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer chances to spot local fauna. "Saw deer in and around the campground almost daily," reports Duane R. about Nelson Falls RV Park, which is surrounded by sequoia trees.
Orange groves: Several valley campgrounds maintain their agricultural heritage. At Orange Grove RV Park, campers can pick fresh fruit during their stay. "The oranges are absolutely fantastic and makes you wonder why you can't get the same quality in a store," notes Semi H., who stays there regularly during transit in April and September.
What you should know
Mountain road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "The drive up is a little daunting with going up the mountain, but the road was fine just take your time it will be worth it," advises Nathan F. about reaching Nelson Falls RV Park.
Seasonal water levels: River conditions change dramatically throughout the year. "We were told May to June the river is very high in this area," reports David H. about his August stay at KRS RV Resort@Camp James, noting that the lower water level was "perfect for us with our 5 year old son."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely based on elevation and location. "Zero Cell coverage (we took that as a good thing), but make sure to download your google map," recommends Nathan F. regarding Nelson Falls RV Park, though he mentions "Starlink worked perfect, though there was wifi available."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety considerations: River conditions should dictate activities with children. "The River was a little low but it was perfect for us with our 5 year old son. We were able to float down the river in our inner tubes safely," shares David H. about KRS RV Resort@Camp James.
Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities: Some RV parks cater specifically to families with children. "The kids rode bikes, played in the river and ran around until they crashed every night," says Amy S. about her stay at Sequoia RV Ranch with two families including four children under 5 years old.
Plan day trips to national parks: Many families use the campgrounds as a base for exploring nearby natural attractions. "We ventured out to Sequoia National Park only a few miles away, the views were amazing, and there was so much to do," mentions Amy S., who found Sequoia RV Ranch to be "picturesque, serene and pretty quiet."
Tips from RVers
Site configurations vary widely: Pay attention to how sites are arranged when booking. "The pull-through sites alternate direction of entry. Concrete pad, grassy areas in between on the door-side; neighbor's hookups on the hookup side," explains Philip D. about Bakersfield River Run RV Park.
Bathroom and shower availability: Some facilities have limited hours. "Pretty ridiculous that all the toilets and showers in the rv park are locked from 10pm-7:30am," notes Jesse B. about Bakersfield River Run RV Park, expressing frustration at the lack of overnight bathroom access.
Cleanliness standards: Many RV parks maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms are by far the cleanest I've seen," reports Rhonda V. about Bakersfield River Run RV Park, adding that they also have "a great laundry room as well."
