Within Sequoia National Forest, South Fork Recreation Site provides year-round camping with direct lake access along the shores of Lake Isabella. The US Forest Service facility accommodates multiple access methods including drive-in, walk-in, and boat-in camping, though pets are not permitted on site.
Campers find basic amenities including drinking water, restrooms, and a dump station, with sites scattered throughout the area and water spigots available. The location sits adjacent to a busy road, creating some traffic noise throughout the day and night. Camp hosts actively greet visitors and assist with information, while a card-operated payment system handles the $12 nightly fee. For additional options, see places to camp around Lake Isabella. Fire permits are required for campfires or stoves and can be obtained online before arrival.
Description
Located off Highway 178 on the southern side of Lake Isabella, this facility offers flush toilets, trash service, drinking water, a visitor information station, and campsites with stoves and picnic tables above the high-water mark. Below the high-water mark, visitors can drive their vehicles to the shoreline and camp at the waters edge. Below the high-water mark portable toilets and trash receptacles are provided for visitor convenience during the summer. The site also offers a__public boat launch and courtesy dock.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSouth Fork Recreation Site is located in California
Coordinates
35.65856702 N
118.4368909 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/26/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/26/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/26/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/26/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 52 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 1 hr 50 min from Visalia, CA
- 1 hr 58 min from Hanford, CA
- 2 hrs 20 min from Fresno, CA









