Glamping close to Glennville, California offers visitors access to the diverse landscapes of Sequoia National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 7,000 feet. The Kern River Valley experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August, while spring brings milder weather and higher river flows. Sites throughout the region offer varying levels of amenities with most luxury accommodations concentrated along riverside areas where natural features complement the upscale camping experience.
What to do
River activities: The Kern River provides multiple recreation options across difficulty levels for glamping visitors. At Camp Three Campground, the river is accessible via "a 3 minute walk through the woods to get to Kern River and you have a little oasis away from it all," according to Mike N. The river sections vary in intensity, with some areas suitable for families.
Hiking trails: Trails throughout the region range from easy nature walks to challenging mountain terrain. Near Redwood Meadow, the Trail of 100 Giants provides an accessible walking experience across from the campground. Ryan W. notes this is "a 1/2 mile walking tour of some of the biggest trees Sequoia has to offer," making it perfect for those staying in glamping accommodations seeking natural wonders without strenuous hiking.
Seasonal fishing: Trout fishing is available directly from several glamping locations with best results in spring and early summer. At Kern River County Park, one visitor observed "a bald eagle perched in a tree right above my site with its breakfish!" The fishing spots are easily accessible from most upscale tent and cabin sites.
What campers like
Proximity to town services: Many glamping sites provide convenient access to nearby towns. KRS RV Resort@Camp James is "really close to town. Take a ride down the river in your tube and walk back," as Johnny P. describes. This convenience allows glamping guests to enjoy both wilderness settings and access to restaurants and supplies.
Shaded sites: Tree coverage provides essential relief during hot summer months at most glamping locations. At Kern River County Park, Caroline P. appreciates that the "well-spaced sites, you never feel like you're in your neighbor's lap" and notes "lots of trees, so it would be cool in the summer." The shade element is particularly valued at luxury sites where outdoor lounging areas are common features.
Reliable camp hosts: Quality service enhances the glamping experience across several locations. Redwood Meadow's host was described by one visitor as "kind enough to help out with a jumpstart and even helped cleaned the battery leak with a bottle of coke he took from the gift shop." This level of service is typical at sites offering higher-end accommodations where staff maintain regular presence.
What you should know
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between glamping locations with some requiring advance planning. As Ryan W. warns about Redwood Meadow: "recreation.gov and reserveamerica.com both list this campground as having water. That is NOT TRUE. There are no water fill up sites." Always verify water availability before booking luxury accommodations.
Noise levels: Traffic and visitor patterns affect the tranquility of different glamping sites. At Headquarters Campground, Diego R. found "a nice secluded campground up the river from kern's more populated sites, in the heart of the Sequoia National Forest." He arrived "at 5 pm on a last minute late night camping trip and arrived to an empty campground."
Wildlife encounters: Animals frequently visit glamping areas, requiring proper food storage. David W. at Camp Three Campground discovered his site was "in a family of Skunk's back yard. It's Skunk season when they teach their young. No one was sprayed but they were clear that we were not welcome." Bears are also common, with most sites requiring appropriate food containment.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Sites with protected water features offer safer options for children. At Camp James, David H. describes their experience: "We were there August 1-6. 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."
Entertainment options: Some glamping locations provide organized activities for children. Cesar G. reports about Lake Isabella-Kern River KOA: "They have pizza and a small bar to relax in. Most of the sites have shaded trees. They do movie nights and pancakes on certain days." The structured activities complement the natural surroundings.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality significantly affects family glamping experiences. At Redwood Meadow, Ashley S. notes that "camp hosts, Michelle and Darren were wonderful. Kept things clean and were on top of managing the campground," though she cautions there was "no running water" which families should prepare for.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Some glamping areas have limitations for larger vehicles. At Halfway Group Campground, Kramer B. reports, "We called park services to make sure our camper was allowed (Twice) and it indeed it was. However when using a pop up you are essentially camping in the parking lot."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites remain limited in the region with most concentrated in specific areas. Jeff G. observed at Camp James that "Camp sights are very close to one another not much privacy. The RV sights with full hooks up are further away from the river about 200 yards."
Seasonal considerations: RV glamping options change with seasons, affecting availability and comfort. During off-season visits to Halfway Group Campground, Christopher D. found their "group was the only group in the campground" and notes "the campground is right up against the river so you will definitely hear it roaring at night."
