Top Tent Camping near Kernville, CA

Searching for a tent campsite near Kernville? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Kernville, CA (27)

    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Limestone Campground

    1. Limestone Campground

    10 Reviews
    49 Photos
    374 Saves

    Overview

    Limestone Campground sits in an area dotted with oak and gray pine along the Upper Kern River, a designated Wild and Scenic River, at an elevation of 3,500 feet.

    Recreation

    Whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Upper Kern River are popular activities. To learn more about the Upper Kern River, including safety and permitting requirements and a listing of local outfitters, visit the Sequoia National Forests overview of the area.

    Natural Features

    The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the forest's lower slopes. The forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. At various points along the river, gray pines, scrub oaks, grass and dry climate shrubs cling to steep canyon walls, while cottonwoods and willows line the water's edge.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (760) 376-1269.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground provides a good base for day trips to the Sequoia National Park Trail of 100 Giants. The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.

    • Pets
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $34 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description

    2. Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description

    8 Reviews
    26 Photos
    164 Saves

    Dispersed Camping on Upper Kern River approximately 4 to 5 miles north from Kernville. Ther is no water available at this location. Portable toilets and trash recepticals are available during__summer months. See Larger Picture Here.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobo Campground — Sequoia National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobo Campground — Sequoia National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobo Campground — Sequoia National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobo Campground — Sequoia National Forest

    3. Hobo Campground — Sequoia National Forest

    6 Reviews
    4 Photos

    Overview

    Hobo Campground is tucked on the banks of the Lower Kern River, north of the popular Miracle Hot Springs. It sits at 2290 feet elevation on the Sequoia National Forest in the Lower Kern Canyon. The close proximity to the Lower Kern River and the shade provided by the riparian forest make it an ideal summer escape from the heat. It has 23 individual tent only sites and an additional 10 sites across the campground.__

    Recreation

    __White water boating is popular on the Lower Kern and requires a free Kern River Use permit from the Kernville Ranger Station. A trail also exists at the northern end of Hobo Campground that connects visitors to Sandy Flat Campground. The remains of an old resort can be found in the campground and Miracle Hot Springs area.

    Facilities

    __White water boating is popular on the Lower Kern and requires a free Kern River Use permit from the Kernville Ranger Station. A trail also exists at the northern end of Hobo Campground that connects visitors to Sandy Flat Campground. The remains of an old resort can be found in the campground and Miracle Hot Springs area.

    Natural Features

    The campsites are mostly all shaded by majestic sycamores, willows, cottonwoods, alders with views of the Lower Kern River close by.The trees show off a dramatic display of yellow, gold, and orange in the fall. The Kern River flows higher in the late spring and early summer months as water is released from Lake Isabella. The river can appear calm but can be deceiving with it's fast currents under the surface. The Forest Service does not encourage swimming in the river.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (760) 376-3781.

    Nearby Attractions

    Remington Hot Springs is a free Hot Spring on Forest Service Land located approximately one mile West of Hobo Camppground off Old Kern Canyon Road. White water rafting is a very popular activity on the Kern River, local Rafting Outfitters provide half-day to multi day trips along the Kern River.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents

    $26 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Breckenridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Breckenridge Campground

    6. Breckenridge Campground

    4 Reviews
    2 Photos
    162 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rincon Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rincon Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rincon Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rincon Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rincon Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Peppermint Campground

    8. Lower Peppermint Campground

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    67 Saves

    Located along the Lloyd Meadow Road (Forest Road 22S82), 10 miles north of Johnsondale. The campground is 27 miles from California Hot Springs, 32 miles from Kernville, 31 miles from Ponderosa, and 74 miles from Porterville. Most services are available in Porterville and Kernville. The campground has 17 single family units. Some units can accommodate recreational vehicles up to maximum length of 16 feet. Sanitary facilities, portable water, tables, and fire rings are provided. Nearby activities are fishing, touring, hiking, viewing scenery and hunting during the prescribed seasons. Nearby attractions include the Needles, North Fork Kern and the Freeman Creek Grove of giant sequoias.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Remington

    9. Remington

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    41 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Walker Pass Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Walker Pass Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Walker Pass Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Walker Pass Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Walker Pass Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Walker Pass Campground

    10. Walker Pass Campground

    1 Review
    10 Photos
    73 Saves

    Walker Pass Campround is located just off of California State Highway 178 and at the junction of the Owens Peak and Cache Peak segments of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Located at 5,000 feet, there are pinyon pines and a few Joshua trees in this semi-arid setting and outstanding views of the dry, rugged foothills of the Southern Sierras. The campround includes eleven walk in sites for Pacific Crest Trail hikers and tent campers. The camprgound also has two sites for car camping. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring. Hitching racks and corrals are available for horses. No potable water is available at this site.

    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 27 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Kernville

420 Reviews of 27 Kernville Campgrounds


  • Ryan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Holey Meadow Campground
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Holey Meadow Campground

    Beautiful and quiet

    Pulled in on a Friday afternoon and had the whole campgrounds to ourselves, until about 7 pm. Neighbors kept noise to a minimum. We chose site #3 (back right) and it had a fairly level spot for our cars RTT. Overall, the grounds and bathrooms were very clean. Holey Meadow, across the road, is small, but very beautiful. The main road is just past that, so you will hear traffic. The Trail of a Hundred Giants is about 2 miles north and worth a visit. A section of the trail was closed due to a downed tree, but still a nice walk.

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kern's River Edge Campground
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Kern's River Edge Campground

    Nice campsite, friendly hosts, family and kid oriented

    Well run site, with easy late check in process. Friendly on site camp hosts who sell ice and firewood. Quite a lot of rules, and it had kind of a kids camp feel to it. Showers are hot, but you need quarters for them. I only gave three stars as it just not my kind of campground. If you're a family with kids I think it'd be great.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)

    Perfect.

    This campsite was fantastic. Access was easy with a 4x4, but may be a little tough for a 2WD car. Plenty of space for a small trailer to maneuver.

    Highly recommend. Perfect for an off-road trailer or overland setup.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Cove
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Paradise Cove

    Beautiful scenery

    Very beautiful sight of the lake and mountains. Easy access from the road. Had a ton of wind and thunder so hard to move further up and away from the lake so we wherent up against the wind. Close to the road so a little noise from it, but thats what made it easy accessible as well. All in all a very nice campsite.

  • Cameron L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)

    Great Spot tucked off the road

    We stopped here on our way through Sequoia Nat’l Forest and loved it. The water is super clear and nice! We were the only ones staying here, so it was very quiet and calming. A handful of camping spots around this area, well worth the stay!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley

    Confusing layout lacking signage

    It’s confusing to find the campsite. No signs directing you where to go. You have to drive behind the sites and pull through. Sites are small and you’re basically packed together. power and water are on the right instead of left. Bathroom ok, shower curtain looks dirty.

  • Eric A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Fish Creek Campground

    Tranquil Camping

    Campsite 32 was beautiful, overlooking the creek, every morning here was blissful. Fairly remote (about 25-30 min from the general store with wifi) this place feels like another world

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Gulch
    Jun. 29, 2024

    Boulder Gulch

    Good camping site

    This campground has some shade and some open areas.Area was clean and the host is personable. Cost of camping fee is $34 per night. Has potable water and running water in bathroom. No showers or amenities.

  • Barrie M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley

    Tranquility

    A lovely site, both scenic and peaceful. Was very quiet when we stayed. The small lake was ideal for a bit of casual kayaking and nature watching - mostly birds and dragonflies. Charming and spacious, the informality of the site was a refreshing change. Owing to it being quiet, we spent most of our time there in one of the riverside overlooks that provided seating, a table & a grill (as well as being a vantage point for watching nature and launching the kayaks.

    The only slight negative was that it was the only one of 10 we used on this trip that offered full hook-ups but no WiFi (5G service was adequate though). Would also benefit with the addition of more than just the single shower/toilet unit (which contrary to another review was of more than adequate size)

  • Nicholas G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground

    Radical

    The sites were pretty well spaced and quiet at night. The bathrooms were not bad, and there's running water (needs to be treated). There's the wonderful sound of motorcycles on and off through the day, so if that bothers you take notice. There's some great fishing near by too.

  • Jorge R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from A Country RV Park
    Jun. 9, 2024

    A Country RV Park

    Accommodating and Clean

    Very convenient and super clean. The lady who answers the phone is super friendly and helpful. I think it's better for RVs and don't think there are any tent sites.

  • Daniel M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Flat
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Sandy Flat

    Great spot - close to the river

    The campground was great - the spot was not so great. I recommend staying here just don’t stay on camp spot 9. You have to “scale” down a medium incline just to get from your car to the camp flat for your tent. And your downwind from the bathrooms and can smell… everything. Again the campground was great and we were pretty close to the river which was awesome. But stay away from site 9. We’ll definitely be back but will be at one of the others. Be sure to bring river/water shoes and some decent bug repellent.

  • Maria K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Haven RV Park and Mini Storage
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Shady Haven RV Park and Mini Storage

    Worst campground I’ve ever stayed at!

    5+ years Full time RVer, worst ever campground we have ever stayed at, stayed in many states, long-term short-term, stayed at this one for two months, although had a reservation for three. Sites are too tight, everything‘s grayish/dusty and dirty, you’re near a rail track, that blows its horn for minutes 24/7, that includes 2 AM, that includes 4 AM. Many of the neighbors you’ll see look like they’re on (mental) disability and don’t look healthy. Hot tub is smelly and yellow water too often although they state they clean it almost weekly. I god major depression staying here.

  • Khin N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest 22S82 Dispersed Site
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Sequoia National Forest 22S82 Dispersed Site

    Dispersed campground

    This place is near the natural water slide area. Road is not good but you can do with 4x4 all the way inside. You can see very flat area. We spent a night near big tree because there is no one.

  • Nathan F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Falls RV Park
    May. 28, 2024

    Nelson Falls RV Park

    First rate site, definitely recommended, quaint and quiet.

    Communication with the host was amazing, we went from the Thursday before Memorial Day to Memorial Monday.  Everything was amazing.  Very quiet community.

    Full hookups for our 5th wheel, spacious sites, flushing restrooms and showers if you wanted.  Starlink worked perfect, though there was wifi available.

    A couple notes:

    Zero Cell coverage (we took that as a good thing), but make sure to download your google map.

    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.

  • Greg B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wishon Campground
    May. 26, 2024

    Wishon Campground

    A blast as a kid

    We went many years as kids and we were all surfers from Newport Beach wanting to do extreme things. One day I decided to go up the pump station, over the barb wire to the top of the I Beam. Crazy my dad took this picture. I was 15 years old and crazy!

  • Dennis F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kern River Campground
    May. 21, 2024

    Kern River Campground

    Not the best but it's a great place

    Been going up there since 1969 had many many Fantastic trips fishing is always good sightseeing is good just all around good place.

  • Michelle W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ricardo Campground - Red Rock Canyon State Park
    May. 2, 2024

    Ricardo Campground - Red Rock Canyon State Park

    Gorgeous desert

    Beautiful area with nice shady rock overhangs to stay cool during the day. No AT&T signal. No tesla signal. There was poor WiFi at the visitor center but at least you could send an email or message. The desert was alive in April! I got #8 which had a nice view. Not too crowded at 1 pm on a Saturday where I got to choose from a dozen open sites. So much better than the Alabama Hills area which was completely packed.

  • Bryan S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rivernook Campground
    Apr. 24, 2024

    Rivernook Campground

    Standard

    Probably could have been a 3. We checked in late 930 but called ahead to let them know. We got to our spot no power. Under 30 degrees with no heater not ideal. They did come fix it in the morning but when we mentioned it to the office they just said oh well. Definitely not exceptional service. General store was very limited. Wi-Fi didn’t work they claimed it was out of service. People drive way too fast through the camp ground. Lots of permanent residents with some pretty rough setups. Upside great location by the river. Beautiful sites and sounds.

  • I
    Camper-submitted photo from Ricardo Campground - Red Rock Canyon State Park
    Apr. 21, 2024

    Ricardo Campground - Red Rock Canyon State Park

    Desert Camping

    Enough space for our 29” RV, pavement was really ok for desert, water, toilets in the morning full of insects, but that’s desert. You also have Wi-Fi at the Visitors Center which we really loved. Our spot had view to both sites of the rocks.

  • Nicholas G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairview Campground
    Apr. 15, 2024

    Fairview Campground

    Great location

    If you can, get a spot that is next to the river. We had a great time lounging by the river, fishing, and just hanging around. The bathrooms were clean, and the camp host was great too. I would definitely come back in Spring and Fall. Summer might be a little too warm, but if the fish are biting - they're the boss.

  • Jack J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Ledge Campground
    Mar. 7, 2024

    Gold Ledge Campground

    River View Campsite

    Came as a going away trip. Great little camp ground. The park ranger was kind and knowledgeable of where to get decently priced firewood. Close to amazing hiking trails and town so if you needed anything, it was just down the road.

  • makenna W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rivernook Campground
    Feb. 29, 2024

    Rivernook Campground

    Nothing like the website photos…

    My partner and I canceled our booking here after a short drive to our “campsite”… everyone seemed to be camping in what looked like dirt parking spots with cheap fire rings with no space or privacy. The campground was rundown and poorly maintained… looks more like a cheap trailer park than whatever they’re advertising on the website. After driving almost two hours to this location… we will admit we were incredibly disappointed with what we found. Don’t waste your money.

  • makenna W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kern's River Edge Campground
    Feb. 29, 2024

    Kern's River Edge Campground

    A lovely, quiet campground.

    My partner and I stayed here after a campground down the road overbooked us for a weekend, and it ended up being a lovely trip. The campsites were clean and spacious, the bathrooms were sanitary and showers were hot. Only downside happen to be the on-site general store was shut down the whole weekend.



Guide to Kernville

Camping near Kernville, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just soaking up the beauty of nature, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are great trails nearby, especially around Whitney Portal. One camper mentioned, "Nice hiking trails accessible from the campground," making it a perfect spot for those who love to explore.
  • Fishing: The Kern River is a popular spot for fishing. A visitor at Kern River Campground said, "Fishing is always good sightseeing is good just all around good place."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for excellent stargazing. A camper at Tuttle Creek Campground noted, "Great dark skies for stargazing and photography."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One review for Ricardo Campground said, "Beautiful area with nice shady rock overhangs to stay cool during the day."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Rivernook Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor mentioned, "Restrooms and showers were very well kept."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff. At Camp James, one reviewer said, "Helpful friendly staff, super clean, and amazing camp sites!"

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Tuttle Creek Campground, lack certain amenities. A camper pointed out, "No showers or drinking water," so be prepared.
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get busy. A visitor at Potwisha Campground noted, "This campsite is really crowded," especially in summer.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Bears and other wildlife are common. One camper at Camp James shared, "A friendly family of bears made their presence at night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Rivernook Campground, which has good facilities. A family shared, "The best FIRST TIME CAMPING experience, I could have asked for."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Kern River Campground said, "We had a blast here," highlighting the fun they had tubing and fishing.
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially near water. One reviewer at Whitney Portal mentioned, "Saw fresh bear scat near our site, but never saw any bears," reminding everyone to stay alert.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Orange Grove RV Park noted, "The spaces are a little tight but ok."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Bakersfield River Run RV Park mentioned, "The freeway noise was pretty constant."
  • Use Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. One reviewer at Rivernook Campground appreciated the "full hookups worked fine."

Camping near Kernville, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With its beautiful scenery and variety of activities, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape into nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kernville, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kernville, CA is Limestone Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 10 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Kernville, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 27 tent camping locations near Kernville, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.