Glamping accommodations close to Greenfield, California sit along the foothills of the Tehachapi Mountains, where elevations range from 1,000 to 6,000 feet. This terrain creates diverse microclimates, with summer temperatures typically reaching 90-100°F in lower elevations while mountain camps remain 10-15 degrees cooler. Most glamping facilities in this region maintain vault toilets rather than flush systems due to water conservation requirements.
What to do
Trail hiking at Tehachapi Mountain Park: The park offers multiple trails with elevations ranging from 5,800-7,600 feet, providing moderate to challenging hiking options. "The camping stop is best known for its hiking trail to the top of Tehachapi's highest peak. But also has cabins available for rent. There is one geo up site as well and access for a horse trail to head on the trail," notes Mike Z. from Tehachapi Mountain Park.
Orange picking at RV parks: Several glamping sites near Bakersfield allow guests to pick fresh citrus during stays. "Clean, quiet easy on and off HWY58. Sites are level the pool is clean, staff is awesome. Don't forget the oranges," shares Glenn B. from Orange Grove RV Park.
Fishing at mountain lakes: Brite Lake offers fishing opportunities with specific regulations about motor types. "We stayed during the pandemic and CA wildfires, so the lake was low and the amenities were deserted. That said, we reserved in advance and had a large site for our RV under a huge shade tree... We enjoyed watching the bunnies and squirrels from our camper window and ducks and birds on the lake."
What campers like
Private creek access: Many glamping sites feature private stream access for cooling off during hot months. "We camped next to a creek that babbles and bounces through the campground. Is this a Laura ingles wilder book?! Tiny adorable bar and grill run by the locals, right at the foot of the camp makes for a not-so-off-the-grid trip if you choose to partake," writes Morgan E. from Reyes Creek Campground.
Waterfront sites: Riverside glamping offers direct water access and natural white noise. "We usually come here to ride our off road bikes, but this time decided to stay for the weekend without our bikes. There area is large and ample where you don't have to be next to each other unless that is what you want," explains Suly&Fabian L. from Hungry Valley State Vehicle Recreation Area.
Shaded accommodations: Tree coverage provides natural cooling for glamping structures. "We went tent camping and the spots were huge and close to the river which made for beautiful peaceful mornings," shares Anna B. from Kern River County Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: River and lake levels fluctuate dramatically by season, affecting activities and accessibility. "We camp here every year. Usually late shooting to early summer. Camp grounds are well maintained. Would not recommend camping on holidays. Close to 2 lakes ming and hart Park," advises Mike J. from Kern River County Park.
Vault toilet conditions: Most glamping facilities use vault toilets with varying cleanliness levels. "Reyes creek is beautiful! Great camping spots, beautiful creeks & hikes, cute abandoned town for a photo opp and awesome camp host. We ended up in group site 1 due to Covid they can't have big groups and it was spacious and great for our doggos to have a big area."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically by location and elevation. "The wifi did not work reliably for my son's online school. My son and I enjoyed free orange picking though!" reports Justin C. from Orange Grove RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Several sites offer shallow creek access safer than main river areas. "The kids loved tubing down it all day. In front of us was the river. Gorgeous views. The grounds are very well maintained, they collect trash every morning, there is a small store inside the office in case you forgot anything," shares Amber D. from KRS RV Resort@Camp James.
Activity planning: Many glamping sites offer organized children's activities. "They have a wonderful pool and splash pad for the kids. The staff was amazing! 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."
Site selection for families: Choose sites away from riverbanks for younger children's safety. "This is a simple and clean campground with paved roads that are good for kids to ride bikes. They separate the residents and the short term people on two different sides of the park, so that's nice."
Tips from RVers
Navigating mountain roads: Larger rigs face challenges on narrow, winding mountain routes. "The road to the campground is a narrow, twisty, two lane road. Then we got to the campground and it got narrower and steeper. The grades in some parts of the campground were double digit percent grades and the hairpin turns were very sharp," cautions Mark from Tehachapi Mountain Park.
Hookup availability: Full hookups remain limited at more remote glamping locations. "50 huge campsites with lots of trees for shade. Many river side sites. No hook ups, but there is a dump station and several water spigots. Been coming here for years. Only a few miles to town."
Site leveling considerations: Many mountain sites require significant leveling equipment. "Lots of campsite choices along the ridge with beautiful expansive views of the plain. During springtime, the wildflowers are beautiful. Site also has unique glamping options," writes Esther Y. from Songdog Ranch.