Camp Three Campground offers primitive sites along the Kern River in Sequoia National Forest, approximately 40 minutes north of Lake Isabella. The campground typically operates from late May through mid-September when temperatures range from 50°F nights to 90°F days. River-adjacent sites provide natural cooling during summer months when the region experiences minimal rainfall and consistently clear skies.
What to do
River activities at Camp Three: Camp Three provides immediate river access for swimming and wading. "The River next to the campground is also easily accessed and great for all levels of play," notes one visitor. Sites near the water allow campers to take advantage of natural swimming areas with minimal hiking required.
Fishing spots: The Kern River offers productive trout fishing directly accessible from KRS RV Resort@Camp James. One camper notes, "There is great trout fishing right off the property, and the bathrooms have always been well kept and clean." Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased in Kernville at several locations.
Hiking nearby: Multiple trails access the surrounding Sequoia National Forest. From Headquarters Campground, campers can easily reach forest trails. "A nice secluded campground up the river from kern's more populated sites, in the heart of the Sequoia National Forest," reports one visitor who enjoyed the area's hiking options.
What campers like
Riverside sites: At Camp Three Campground, the riverside location creates natural sound barriers between sites. "Best sites are right next to the river. Spacious with a good amount of privacy depending on the site you get. Easy to float to if you go up river," notes a regular visitor.
Swimming areas: Natural swimming holes form along the Kern River during summer months. At Halfway Group Campground, visitors enjoy river access for cooling off. One camper shares, "The campground is right up against the river so you will definitely hear it roaring at night."
Shade coverage: Tree cover provides essential relief during hot summer days. At Springhill South Recreation Site, campers find ample shade. "Tons of trees water and quiet. Just the way everybody likes it. Not too far from a general store and has tons of places you can hike," reports one visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most riverside sites require advance booking, especially for weekend stays during summer months. At Halfway Group Campground, group sites have specific size limitations. "There are a few different group sites available, with varying group size limitations," notes a visitor.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. "Keep in mind there is no running water at all here. Either bring your own or filter/boil the river water," advises a camper about Halfway Group Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other wildlife frequent the area, requiring proper food storage. Some campgrounds like Hospital Flat have resident bears. "We were warned of a resident bear that lives across the street but we did not encounter him or any other wildlife," reports one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swim areas: Some sections of the Kern River create natural wading pools appropriate for children. At Kern's River Edge Campground, family amenities receive priority. "Well run site, with easy late check in process. Friendly on site camp hosts who sell ice and firewood... If you're a family with kids I think it'd be great," notes a recent visitor.
Campground activities: Several Lake Isabella glamping locations organize regular activities for children. At Camp James, structured recreation includes "movie night, bingo, even rock painting," according to visitors who appreciated the family programming.
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Some have flush toilets while others use vault toilets or portable facilities. "The bathrooms are sanitary and showers are hot," notes a visitor to Kern's River Edge Campground, making it suitable for families requiring more amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many campgrounds have narrow roads with tight turns. At Hospital Flat, RV access requires careful navigation. "The website says several spots are good for a 30-foot RV. I do not recommend anything bigger than 24 feet or so. The road through the campground is very narrow, and lined with large boulders," warns a visitor.
Full hookups availability: When glamping in Lake Isabella, California with an RV, knowing which campgrounds offer utilities matters. Orange Grove RV Park provides complete services. "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," shares one RVer.
Seasonal limitations: RV sites near Lake Isabella often implement restrictions during fire season. "There are also no fires allowed at this campground (at least not during the time we went)," notes a visitor to Hospital Flat, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal regulations before arrival.
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