Bakersfield camping facilities offer varied options for travelers with pets beyond the standard leash policies. Many campgrounds feature dedicated bathroom facilities that remain open all night, avoiding the inconvenience of locked facilities during overnight pet walks. Sites typically provide 30-50 amp electrical hookups with level pads suitable for RVs of various sizes. Winter temperatures remain mild enough for comfortable outdoor activities with pets, though summer heat requires early morning or evening walks to prevent paw pad burns.
What to do
River activities during high flow seasons: Kern River Campground provides access to water recreation when conditions permit. One camper notes, "Short walk upstream, gives you option for rafting back down to your camp," making it convenient for water enthusiasts with their own equipment.
Golf course access: Kern River County Park borders Kern River Golf Course for those seeking non-water recreation. A visitor mentioned it's "a short walk to lake Ming and Kern River golf course," providing alternative recreation without driving.
Bird watching opportunities: The riverfront location attracts diverse wildlife. One camper at Kern River County Park reported seeing "great birds along the river, lots of ducks and egrets, and a bald eagle perched in a tree right above my site with its breakfish!"
Biking trails: Several campgrounds connect to extensive path networks. A camper at Bakersfield River Run RV Park mentioned it's "adjacent to a great bike trail of 50+ miles," offering extensive riding opportunities regardless of camping duration.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Kern River Campground offers larger-than-average sites. A visitor commented, "The campsites are VERY close together, so hopefully, you don't mind making friends with your neighbors," which contrasts with the riverside sites that provide more privacy.
Citrus trees for fresh fruit: Many parks feature working orchards. A visitor to Orange Grove RV Park shared, "We had site 117 and it was a nice spot with no fire pit. Full hookups and really I can't imagine you could have a nicer park in Bakersfield. My son and I enjoyed free orange picking though!"
Consistent maintenance: Parks typically maintain clean facilities despite high usage. One visitor at Bakersfield River Run RV Park noted, "The bathrooms and grounds are modern, the showers are fantastic. Definitely stay here if you are traveling through."
Riverside locations: Many campsites offer direct water access. A camper at Kern River County Park remarked, "Well maintained campground with well-spaced sites, you never feel like you're in your neighbor's lap. Sites along the river feel a little less private simply because everyone walks along the river."
What you should know
Seasonal river flow variations: Water levels fluctuate dramatically by season. A visitor to Bakersfield River Run RV Park observed, "The river is not always running as in some of the pictures," indicating photos may show peak conditions.
Highway noise considerations: Several parks experience traffic sound. A reviewer at Bakersfield River Run RV Park advised, "Ask for 1-32 or 89-113 to have your best chance of avoiding the highway noise."
Wildlife encounters: The riverside location means active wildlife. One camper at Bear Mountain RV Park noted it has "TWO dog parks" where pets can exercise safely away from wild animals.
Railroad proximity: Train noise affects several facilities. One camper at Bakersfield Palms RV Park mentioned, "Trains are very near so there is that noise," which might disturb light sleepers.
Tips for camping with families
Pool reservation systems: COVID protocols remain at some facilities. A camper at Bakersfield River Run RV Park shared, "The pool was beautiful & spotless, tho u will need a reservation during Covid, you get a 35 minute slot, 10 people at a time."
Playground availability: Limited play structures exist in the area. One camper at Orange Grove RV Park noted it "could absolutely use a playground for kids to play on," suggesting bringing portable entertainment options.
Pet exercise areas: Several campgrounds offer designated pet spaces. A visitor to Bear Mountain RV Park noted the "nice landscape" and "fenced dog park" that helps contain pets safely.
Water recreation timing: Lake water quality varies seasonally. A camper at Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area commented they were "glad to know that they don't have the blue green algae that is very toxic to children and animals," highlighting the importance of checking conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for maximum space: Configuration matters for larger rigs. An RVer at Bakersfield River Run RV Park advised, "The spots are great regardless of rig size," but noted some are better situated than others.
Hookup quality: Full connections are standard but vary in quality. A camper at A Country RV Park noted, "The spots are wide and long enough for our 42' 5th wheel," making it suitable for larger vehicles.
Level site importance: Ground conditions vary between parks. A visitor to Orange Grove RV Park noted, "Sites are level," which is crucial for proper RV functionality.
Surface materials: Different parks use various pad materials. A camper at Bakersfield KOA Journey observed, "Only con is parking is on DG rather than cement and in the morning it is muddy," suggesting checking forecasts before arrival.
