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Best Campgrounds near Bakersfield, CA

505 Reviews

Bakersfield and the southern Central Valley has several camping options worth checking out. Red Rock Canyon State Park draws many campers who want to see its strange rock formations and colorful desert scenery. KCL Campground keeps things simple with just the basics for a more primitive camping experience. Rivernook Campground sits by the Kern River where you can fish or hike nearby trails. Most campgrounds are easy to reach on decent roads, though you might need a higher clearance vehicle in some spots, especially after it rains. You'll likely see deer, coyotes and lots of birds in this area, so keep your food locked up. The Tehachapi Loop railroad and the small town of Kernville make good side trips while camping here. Some activities require permits, so it's smart to check beforehand. They often ban fires during the dry summer, and weather can change quickly, so come prepared. Book ahead for the busy season since popular spots fill up fast. The different landscapes around Bakersfield give you plenty of options for outdoor activities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Bakersfield, California (152)

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Recent Reviews near Bakersfield, CA

505 Reviews of 152 Bakersfield Campgrounds

Guide to Bakersfield

Camping near Bakersfield, CA, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are great trails nearby. At Ricardo Campground — Red Rock Canyon State Park, one camper mentioned, "The nature trail is accessible directly from the campground and the views are jaw-dropping."
  • Fishing: The Kern River Campground is perfect for fishing. A visitor shared, "Fishing is always good sightseeing is good just all around good place."
  • Wildlife Watching: At KCL Campground, you might spot owls and other wildlife. One reviewer noted, "The campground was so nice and quiet... amazing wildflower blooms in spring."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A review for Reyes Creek Campground said, "We hiked the creek and loved the tree coverage."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. At Wheeler Gorge Campground, a camper remarked, "The restrooms and showers were very well kept."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. One visitor at Dennison Park said, "The camp host, Dane, was friendly, helpful, and a joy to chat with."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Rivernook Campground, have basic facilities. A camper noted, "The bathrooms were always clean, but the sites are so close together that you can literally hear everyone’s conversations."
  • No Reservations: Many sites, such as KCL Campground, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. One reviewer mentioned, "It’s first come first serve, no reservations and it’s free."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. At Wheeler Gorge Campground, a camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. Kern River Campground is great for families. One parent said, "We were right on the water, super beautiful and relaxing."
  • Bring Games and Activities: Keep the kids entertained. A visitor at Orange Grove RV Park mentioned, "The kids loved it :-)."
  • Plan for Safety: Make sure to keep an eye on little ones, especially near water. A camper at Camp James noted, "A friendly family of bears made their presence at night."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A review for Bakersfield River Run RV Park said, "The spaces are a little tight but ok."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need amenities, check for campgrounds with full hookups. At Rivernook Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Full hookups worked fine."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near highways. A camper at Orange Grove RV Park noted, "At times you can hear the freeway and trains passing by."

Camping near Bakersfield, CA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Bakersfield, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Bakersfield, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 152 campgrounds and RV parks near Bakersfield, CA and 18 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Bakersfield, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bakersfield, CA is Bakersfield River Run RV Park with a 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bakersfield, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 free dispersed camping spots near Bakersfield, CA.

  • What parks are near Bakersfield, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Bakersfield, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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