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Camping near Lake Isabella

Enjoy fishing, boating, and lakefront camping at this massive Sierra Nevada reservoir.

90% (1262 reviews)
90% (1262 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Lake Isabella

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

12 top campgrounds near Lake Isabella

92%
(184)

Havilah Pines homestead

1 site ¡ RV, Tent2 acres ¡ Havilah, CA
Located in the national sequoia forest, Havilah pines homestead is a unique place, we are in the middle of a canyon, rural and remote but not too remote, do note that there is no cell service here but we do offer wifi service for a fee. the closest town and Lake is about 20 minutes away. we have the cleanest air in Kern, blue skies most days and stars during the night like you have never seen them in the city! it can get toasty during the day, but once that sun goes behind the mountain it cools off that some times you want to put something on! We are a micro farm growing organic food and practicing non GMO sustainable organic farming methods even our animals eat only organic non GMO feed, among our livestock are chickens, turkeys and guinea fowl, they happily free range on the homestead and produce delicious eggs, if you haven't eaten eggs like free range ones then you must try them! the taste is light years different than the store bought ones... It is a quite and peaceful place(except the roosters and guineas), at night you hear crickets and frogs and early in the morning wake up to a pleasant tune of wild bird's symphony.
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$38
 / night
99%
(472)

Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

14 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres ¡ Wofford Heights, CA
Private ADULT ONLY camping. With a central outdoor kitchen and dining area, group fire pit, & a bathroom with a composting toilet, sink, & shower. Seasonal creek. Quiet and private. We have a small cabin (The Playhouse) and 15 campsites. No Pets, No Smoking ADULTS ONLY. Spirit Walk is a quiet meditative place. It is not a conducive environment for young children. Thank you for understanding. Lake Isabella, the Kern River and historic Kernville are just 5 minutes down the road. All Hipcamp proceeds go directly back into the land in the way of forest maintenance, a tree planting program and improvements to the facilities.
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$53
 / night
100%
(6)

Kernville Ranch, ski, snow & hottub

5 sites ¡ Lodging15 acres ¡ Kernville, CA
Nestled in the meadows and originally a dairy, Kernville Ranch is just a 10 minute walk from the center of Kernville. Plenty of fishing and white water rafting, hiking and hot springs and snow play depending on the season. Explore the lake for water-sports, the high country for pristine wilderness and a little snow. The town is full of restaurants, antiques stores, and a wonderful museum of the rich heritage of this Wild West town,
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$89
 / night
100%
(4)

Underworld Farms

15 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs6 acres ¡ Kernville, CA
Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins or trailers. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS
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from 
$40
 / night
Booked 1 time

Bare All Retreat

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents138 acres ¡ Caliente, CA
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
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$8
 / night
100%
(12)

Off My Rocker Retreat

2 sites ¡ RVs2 acres ¡ Lake Isabella, CA
We are located on 2.4 acres in the beautiful Kern River Valley. This isolated community offers a wide range of fantastic activities. Rafting, biking, hiking, and seasonal skiing.Kernville is the favorite spot for visitors and locals. Full of great places to eat along the Kern River.The Trail of 100 Giants is just North of there. We highly recommend taking the opportunity to go and be in awe of their ancient beauty.We would love to have you stay at our little ranch.
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$40
 / night
99%
(50)

The Squattage in the Sequoia National Forest!

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ California Hot Springs, CA
It’s a newly constructed little cottage that a Sasquatch would call home, that’s why we call it the Squattage! Our guests love the history of our Village and surrounding areas, the wildlife, serenity, and friendly folks, we hope you do too! Learn more about this land: Beautiful new A-frame, high-end fit and finish! Features include a sleeping loft! The downstairs has a daybed with a trundle, a sitting area, an indoor potty and a nice breakfast bar! It’s so relaxing, romantic, and just as fabulous as can be! The hot outdoor shower has a beautiful view of the trees and sky! The large front porch is perfect for relaxing or planning the day's adventure! All solar powered. There’s a propane fire pit to cook on or enjoy, propane is available for $35 or you can bring your own. Peaceful Village, beautiful views, park-like setting! Lots of wildlife to see! Beds have high-end bedding, nicer than the hotels! Towels and washcloths are provided for the shower. We even have a few games for you to play to add to your stay at the Squattage! HEY FOLKS! The weather is beautiful, come on up! Spoil yourself and spend some time in our neck of the woods, you deserve it! BOOK NOW BEFORE SOMEONE BEATS YOU TO IT!! Hope to see you soon! PS, we now have Star Link Wi-Fi!! Come on up and be a part of our community! Our Village has begun having craft shows on the first Saturday of every month, lots of great things for purchase! We attend and sell many beautiful items including exotic custom rings, don’t miss out! Items will be available for you to purchase after you check in👍
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$150
 / night
100%
(3)

Descanso Cabanita

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ California Hot Springs, CA
This is a newly renovated, tiny cabin that is quaint and cozy with its own small front porch. There is an outhouse with a dry flush toilet outside of the cabanita. It is set on a property with a larger host cabin and looks out over the beautiful hills of the Sequoia National Monument. It is ideal for one person, or two who don't mind sharing a small space. It is half a mile from the town/resort of California Hot Springs; currently under renovation (due to re-open in the fall of 2023) by the new owners: Artistree. There are numerous hiking trails and creeks for hiking and fishing nearby and it is a 45-minute drive to the Trail of 100 Giants Sequoia grove. The cabanita is also 3 miles from the town of Pine Flat which hosts seven oaks market and grill. Note* This is a drug-free, no smoking property
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$75
 / night
100%
(42)

Camping with Mountain Views

1 site ¡ RV, Tent2 acres ¡ Posey, CA
Learn more about this land: 1.1 miles from U.S National Forest.  Camp site is huge.  The total land is 2.36 acres and the land below the parking area is part of the property and can be used to relax, walk around, or let dogs run.  Views for miles and a peaceful place to relax in the Sequoias.  Night view of city lights below in San Joaquin Valley.  Pull in and have the place to yourself.  There's no onsite manager but there is someone within a mile of the property if there are needs or issues.  Let me know if you want to buy wood as the caretaker sells wood for $10 a night or less if you stay more than one night.  You can check yourself in and out with directions that are provided upon booking so you can arrive anytime you want.If you have a large camper 32 foot or under unless you are a miracle worker :).  If you don't think you can pull a trailer from the sharp left on the road you can go up the road about 1.5 miles and turn around so it's an easy right.
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$35
 / night
100%
(7)

Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

3 sites ¡ Lodging2 acres ¡ Weldon, CA
Diamond Acres is a quiet, secluded camp in the Kern River Valley just minutes from Lake Isabella, the mighty Kern River, and Southern Sierras! We offer glamping sites (tent or trailer) with hot showers and flushing toilets! Come enjoy the solitude and stars. Our camp overlooks miles of rolling hills with no houses in view! Skip the crowded campgrounds and glamp comfortably while only being 5 minutes from Lake Isabella! Take a short walk to the top of the property and enjoy some of the best sunsets you've ever seen! We are close to the Kern River, OHV trails, hot springs, hiking, kayaking, fishing, boating, paragliding, and so much more!
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from 
$60
 / night
Booked 1 time

🌲The Prophecy Sequoia Crest🌲

1 site ¡ RV, Tent20 acres ¡ Sequoia Crest, CA
🌲The Prophecy Sequoia Crest - Wilderness Retreat 🌲 Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Sequoia Crest, where nature's grandeur meets modern comfort. Our secluded camping spot offers a unique and rejuvenating experience nestled in the heart of the majestic Sequoia National Forest. Campsite Features: 🏕️ Private & Secluded: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature with our exclusive camping spot, providing privacy and solitude for the perfect getaway. 🌲 Surrounded by Giant Sequoias: Camp under the towering giants, as ancient as time itself, and wake up to the symphony of wind rustling through their massive branches. 🔥 Campfire Bliss: Enjoy cozy evenings around a crackling campfire, sharing stories and creating memories with your loved ones. Activities: 🌄 Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore the nearby trails that lead to panoramic vistas, revealing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 🚴 Mountain Biking Adventures: For the adventurous souls, embark on thrilling mountain biking trails amidst the stunning landscape. 📸 Photography Paradise: Capture the beauty of nature with incredible photo opportunities at every turn. Local Attractions: 🏞️ Sequoia National Park: A short drive away, immerse yourself in the wonders of Sequoia National Park, home to iconic attractions like General Sherman Tree and Moro Rock. 🛶 Kings Canyon: Discover the beauty of Kings Canyon with its majestic canyons, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. Booking Information: ⛺ Accommodation Type: Tent camping 🚗 Accessibility: Accessible by car, with designated parking areas 📅 Availability: Check our calendar for open dates and plan your unforgettable Sequoia Crest adventure! Experience the magic of Sequoia Crest Wilderness Retreat and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay now for a truly immersive nature escape!
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$23
 / night
100%
(42)

Double Triangle Ranch

3 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres ¡ Weldon, CA
Once settled by Tubatulabel and Shoshoni tribes, this area is rich with reminders of their habitation.  Grinding rocks near Tipi camp are one of those.  When gold was discovered in the Kern River Valley, most of the native tribes were displaced but their decendents here in the KRV keep the history alive at the Nuii Cuni Center at Wofford heights, a short drive around the lake from us.
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$45
 / night

Star Hosts in Lake Isabella

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Camping near Lake Isabella guide

Overview

Situated in the southern portion of California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, at the edge of the Sequoia National Forest, Lake Isabella is one of the largest reservoirs in the region. Popular activities include boating, jet-skiing, and fishing for trout, crappie, catfish, and bass. There are also plenty of things to do on land during the cooler months, including exploring the thousand-plus trails in the Sequoia National Forest. The lake is surrounded by a mix of National Forest Service-managed campgrounds, some of which are open year-round. Some are reservable; others are first-come, first-served.

When to go

Lake Isabella is at its busiest in the summer, and you should expect solid crowds if you visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day. If you've come to fish, springtime is a good option, when fish are biting but crowds have yet to descend on the lake. If warm waters are what you’re after, without the massive crowds, consider planning your visit for a September weekday, when you’re likely to get pleasant weather and fewer fellow visitors.

Where to go

The Malibu Coast

Stretching roughly 20 miles from end to end, the Malibu Coast offers all sorts of opportunities for outdoor fun, from surfing to rock climbing. There are also plenty of spots to camp in the region, including Malibu Creek State Park and Leo Carillo State Park.

The California Desert

Head east of the lake and you’ll quickly find yourself out in the expansive Mojave Desert. Both Death Valley National Park and the Mojave National Preserve offer ample opportunities for hiking and camping, especially during the (comparably) cooler winter months.

California's Sequoia Region

North of Lake Isabella, the Sequoia National Forest and the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer some of the best camping opportunities in the region—both of the developed and backcountry variety. You'll also find plenty of trails and lakes, and—unsurprisingly—groves of gargantuan Sequoia trees.

Nearby attractions

Embark on a unique camping adventure amidst the otherworldly landscape of Trona Pinnacles. Set up camp near the towering Tufa formations, explore the ancient fossil beds, and stargaze under clear night skies.

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