Lake Isabella offers both riverfront and lakeside camping between elevations of 2,500-2,600 feet in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains. During summer months, temperatures frequently reach above 100°F, with strong winds common at exposed lakeside sites. The area's camping options extend beyond the immediate lake perimeter, with additional sites along the Kern River where water levels fluctuate seasonally.
What to do
Fishing access options: The fishing at Rivernook Campground provides multiple access points. "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. This campground delivers both river fishing and swimming opportunities in one location.
Float down the Kern River: Summer river tubing ranks among the most popular 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," explains Mike N. from Rivernook Campground. Bring personal flotation devices for safety.
Wildlife watching: The areas around Hanning Flat Dispersed Area offer unexpected wildlife encounters. "The area is also used by lots of cows for grazing so beware of the patties and lots of mooing. They didn't bother us, we actually quite enjoyed watching them," shares Aliza N. Bird watching opportunities also exist, particularly at lakeside locations during morning hours.
What campers like
Riverside camping with amenities: Camp James offers direct river access with conveniences nearby. "The prime reason is they have campsites directly on the Kern River. Also while camping there you will maintain cell reception, there is WiFi, restrooms available 24/7, and FREE hot showers between 7am to 8pm," explains Mike N. The campground's proximity to town provides additional conveniences.
Winter stargazing: Clear winter nights deliver exceptional night sky views at lakeside locations. A camper at Stine Cove Recreation Site shares: "The night sky has no light pollution, and is beautiful enough to knock you off your feet because of all the stars." Winter offers the advantage of fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Privacy among boulders: Sandy Flat Campground offers unique camping spots with natural features. "Our campground space (#32) had an extremely private feel hidden away between some large boulders," reports Javier L. The rock formations throughout some campgrounds provide natural site separation not found at open lakeside locations.
What you should know
Wind challenges: Exposed lakeside sites experience significant wind, particularly at Auxiliary Dam Recreation Site. One visitor warns: "Winter winds here almost blew the tent over with my pup and myself inside... I would have lost that tent had I not been inside." Bring extra stakes and secure all gear, particularly at lakeside sites.
Road conditions vary: Many dispersed camping areas have challenging access roads. At Keyesville Recreation Area, a camper advises: "Walk the roads first to avoid deeply rutted or too steep areas for your vehicle. I stopped my motorcycle to camp before the bad ruts and I'm glad I did." Four-wheel drive vehicles navigate these roads more successfully.
Seasonal differences: Campgrounds around Lake Isabella transform between seasons. "We stopped here on the way into Sequoia National Forest knowing the Kern River sites would be full. There were lots of families playing by the water here," reports Hayley K. about spring conditions. Summer brings crowds while winter offers solitude with limited services.
Tips for camping with families
River safety precautions: Keep children supervised near water. A long-time visitor to Rivernook Campground advises: "I've been coming here for the last 33 years... Please respect the Kern River, keep safe and you'll have a great time!" The Kern River has strong currents that may appear deceptively calm in some areas.
Campgrounds with kid-friendly facilities: The Lake Isabella-Kern River KOA offers family-oriented amenities. "They have a wonderful pool and splash pad for the kids... They do movie nights and pancakes on certain days," shares Nick B. These structured activities provide entertainment options during hot afternoons.
Bug preparation: Spring and summer camping requires insect preparation. One camper notes: "Gnats get a little crazy before the bats show up" at Stine Cove. Pack repellent and consider head nets during peak insect seasons, particularly at water's edge campsites.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection strategy: For optimal riverside RV camping, plan ahead. "We booked last minute so we were unable to get a riverfront spot however our campsite was still nice and have a river view. Would definitely recommend booking early and getting on the river," advises Travis P. about Rivernook Campground.
Seasonal RV access considerations: Winter and early spring conditions can limit RV maneuverability. "The roads are sand and dirt in varying degrees of depth with some of the roads having deep ruts from runoff," explains a visitor. RVers should research current road conditions before attempting access to dispersed sites.
Water and dump station locations: For boondocking RVers, know your service options. "There's a $12 dump station with potable water at Camp 9 and one at Old Isabella Recreation Site," advises a camper from Hanning Flat. These facilities allow extended stays at no-service dispersed camping areas around the lake.
