Stine Cove Recreation Site, near Kernville, California, is a laid-back spot that offers a unique camping experience right by the water. With its wide-open spaces and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it’s a great place to kick back and soak in the natural beauty.

This location is free to camp at, which is a big draw for many visitors. While there are no electric hookups or drinking water available, campers appreciate the simplicity of the area, where you can enjoy campfires and the sounds of nature. As one camper noted, “The night sky has no light pollution, and is beautiful enough to knock you off your feet because of all the stars.”

For those who love fishing, the nearby lake has been a favorite for years, with many campers reminiscing about their catches. Just keep in mind that the water levels can fluctuate, so it’s worth checking before you plan your fishing trip. The area is also home to some wildlife, with eagles and pelicans often spotted, adding to the charm of your stay.

While some campers mentioned that the area can get a bit windy and lacks privacy, the open feel and the chance to connect with nature make it a worthwhile stop. If you’re looking for a spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors, Stine Cove is definitely worth considering.

POTENTIAL FIRE BANS - CHECK BEFORE CAMPING Last report - bans in effect til 11/2020 (reported 10/2020) Located on the east side of Lake Isabella off Sierra Way. Open camping; Free use area; Chemical toilets. No limit on trailer length. Open year round. Supplies at Kernville

Stine Cove Recreation Site

Are you in need of a campground near Weldon, CA? Weldon is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Weldon, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

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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 and it was nice to have our dog out and swimming for a little bit.

There is only one pit toilet bathroom so that was rough waiting for the line to go down. Kernville isn't far away so you can go to town easily to get supplies and food.

Busy but Beautiful

Stayed here 11/03/19, right in the lake. Only 2 other campers. A little windy, fire danger high. Still enjoyed camp fires 

Nice camping

The beach area is wide open and has some great views of the lake and surrounding mountains. There were only a few other campers the night I was there. 

The major downside is the recreation area isn’t clean at all. There was garbage all over the place. It’s also pretty close to town and exposed to the roadway so it was a little bit noisy overnight. 

Cool Views, But Unkempt 

Wide open space and only one other camper so far. Didn’t see trash in the area but it’s pretty windy so maybe it all blew away. Nice view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Some road noise but not too bad.

Nice spot

March 3, 2021

We headed here to both see the area and camp for a few days and to be scouts for a future trip to celebrate a family member's birthday who wanted to do some fishing on his b-day.  

The first thing we noticed was how low the water level was…bummer! Because of that, any fishing would have been casting into or over trees that are now exposed. 

The area is exactly like the pics; a wide open beach so there's space to spread out but not too much to do for active kids due to the aforementioned water level. Verizon cell service was non-existent and lots of cow poop, which we were aware of in the area. Also it's right on the road which was, if you're looking for silence, there's decent traffic on the roadway.

It's free which is awesome and if the water level goes up a bit, I would love to try it again. Disbursed to please pack in and pack out. Happy Camping!

Has potential but water's low

Say hello to the cows for me! They gave me a warming welcome which set the tone for this ideal overnight spot. I visited in February which was most likely the reason why I had the area to myself. I appreciated the rough feel of the lake and how close the road was. There is a restroom and a dump bin at the entrance which locked this spot in for convenience. I didn't have any trouble coming in and out and I loved waking up with open space and the sounds of the lake shore. One big word of caution! Winter winds here almost blew the tent over with my pup and myself inside. Although occasional gusts may seem obvious for location and time of year I would have lost that tent had I not been inside. Coming back soon to launch into Kernville from here. 

Convenient & mystic 

Water is low due to them repairing the dam, where I'm camped at should be underwater and it is gorgeous. The night sky has no light pollution, and is beautiful enough to knock you off your feet because of all the stars. Good location. I would definitely do this again. I'm planning to stay for the full 14 days. 

Tip - Evening winds come from a westerly direction. When rebuilding your site's fire ring, make sure to leave some gaps near the bottom and ensure clear avenues for airflow, yor fire will have a much more complete burn and less smoke.

Should be underwater

There are several very dispersed spots, but its all open so dont expect too much privacy or shelter from the wind. Gorgeous sunset to sunrise. Watch eagles prey on ducks, pelicans gather, hear the frogs croak. Gnats get a little crazy before the bats show up. Nightime lights permeate the  sky across the lake, but star viewing is still possible. 

Beauty between mountains

Took a bit to find as the marker on this map isn’t where the entry is. Go past it and take a left on Sierra way, follow to Stine Cove. Toilets and trash at entrance. The dam is being rebuilt so the water is real low. Easy to drive along the beach until nobody else is around. Great views, sunsets, sunrise, stars, cows… truly wonderful. Early January (2022) is great temps for me around 65. Nights are windy so prepare accordingly. 

Great spot.

We pulled in to spend the night on our way to Death Valley. We ended up leaving and camping down the road at Hanning Flat. Was a big open dirt area with not much more than some scrub grass. Didn’t seem like a lot of privacy or character. 

Not our favorite!

I’ve been camping at This lake since I was 11. My favorite place caught 100’s of fish out of there. I’ve camped in all the camps over the years but I like steins cove when we had a boat. Camp right on the water and the price is right FREE. I live in Az now but when we go back we always hit the lake.  Love it great memories with my mom and dad and our kids and grandkids. Enjoy❤️

Camping at lake since 1957

we looked around the indicated GPS point but at this location, but house or ranch, nothing that looks like the photos posted previously. too bad the spot looked magnificent but with night falling and fatigue from the road we finally slept facing the road in the post office parking lot.

the spot looked perfect, but the location didn't match

We love lake Isabella and just discovered this free camp spot right on the beach…

Photos of Stine Cove Recreation Site

Real photos from real campers