The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near California City, California

Looking to go camping near California City, California with a preference for a river? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 350 options specifically tailored to your preferences, you're sure to find the perfect campsite. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or engage in water activities like swimming, Hipcamp has you covered. Some top campsites in the area include River Ridge Ranch (348 reviews), Spirit Walk - Private Retreat (202 reviews), and Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews). With amenities like showers, trash facilities, and campfires, your camping experience will be comfortable and enjoyable. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in nature!

93% (151)

Top-rated campgrounds near California City

Looking to go camping near California City, California with a preference for a river? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 350 options specifically tailored to your preferences, you're sure to find the perfect campsite. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or engage in water activities like swimming, Hipcamp has you covered. Some top campsites in the area include River Ridge Ranch (348 reviews), Spirit Walk - Private Retreat (202 reviews), and Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews). With amenities like showers, trash facilities, and campfires, your camping experience will be comfortable and enjoyable. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in nature!

93% (151)

Top-rated campgrounds near California City

1. Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%

(26)

42mi from California City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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!

2. Bare All Retreat

88%

(43)

35mi from California City · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

3. Double Triangle Ranch

98%

(58)

43mi from California City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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 with language studies and cultural events.

4. Sequoia National Forest

98%

(270)

905 sites · Ponderosa, California

Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger

47mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging

Ever wanted to live in an RV? Here’s your chance to stay in one—without the expense of owning it! Our RV features a comfortable king-size bed that easily sleeps one, two, or even two and a half—perfect for mommy, daddy, and baby. There’s also a second, individual daybed for extra sleeping space. The kitchen comes equipped with an electric stove, coffee maker, toaster, refrigerator, and microwave. The bathroom, though small, has everything you need. The dining table seats four, and the views out the back are quite lovely.

6. Wandering Star Ranch

99%

(43)

44mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)

7. Silver Spur Ranch

100%

(5)

36mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV

Creek side "Oasis" located close by to the Kern River Valley and Lake Isabella Located in a valley that meets the junction of the High Sierras and Mojave region Here at the ranch are 110 acres of open space with a wooded creek side ! There is a large yard and lawn area by the site RV sites with hookups are available at $65 nightly T Mobil cell service available at the ranch (No Att or Verizon) Wifi available "silver spur ranch" ask for passcode Sequoia Nat Forest is nearby and also a network of OHV trails close by ! Also a 2 bedroom cabin is available to rent here at the ranch ..

8. Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%

(2)

41mi from California City · 1 site · Tent

Escape to a living oasis on our family land lab in the middle of the Great Mojave Desert! Located right off Historic Route 66, Wild Wash Ranch is situated at the top of a hill boasting 360 degree views of the Mojave River to the West, The San Bernardino Mountains to the South, Silver Lakes to the North, and the vast open desert to the East. THIS IS A WORKING REGENERATIVE FARM. We harvest rainwater from our farm structures, produce our own energy, grow and raise fruit trees, fodder trees, native plants, chickens, rabbits, and dogs. Our farm is carefully managed every day in order to ensure a regenerative future of local ecological resilience. We welcome anyone interested in learning about and participating in protecting our desert and working with nature to produce abundance for all! Less than 5 miles away from the farm is the community of Silver Lakes, with grocery stores, restaurants, beaches, and parks. Very close by you’ll find famous Route 66 attractions such as Elmers Bottle Ranch, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, and Antique Station. Locals in this area also frequent nearby attractions such as Palisades Ranch, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Silverwood Lake. Immerse yourself in the future of farming at our evolving, experimental ranch, where dryland innovation meets off-grid charm. Unplug, unwind, and witness the beauty of dynamic desert resilience as you explore our rolling landscape. Watch the sunset over the Mojave River, camp under the stars and join us on a journey to redefine sustainable living – a unique adventure awaits on this eco-friendly retreat! Wild Wash Ranch is a working regenerative farm serving as the flagship demonstration site for Seeds Of Succession, a permaculture nonprofit working to empower local communities through land stewardship practices aimed toward reversing desertification, and promoting food sovereignty. Fire pit, firewood, and outdoor seating provided, as well as a rocket stove for quick, fuel efficient outdoor cooking so you won’t have to miss the sunset to prepare dinner!

9. Pink Palace at Storybook Farms

67%

(3)

44mi from California City · 4 sites · RVs

Learn more about this land:Dry creek bed a little hike down the hill. Surrounded by animals and hillsides we are afforded a beautiful sunrise and sunset daily. See the stars and hear nature just 10 miles away from overcrowded civilization and light pollution.

Camper favorites near California City

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger

47mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging

Ever wanted to live in an RV? Here’s your chance to stay in one—without the expense of owning it! Our RV features a comfortable king-size bed that easily sleeps one, two, or even two and a half—perfect for mommy, daddy, and baby. There’s also a second, individual daybed for extra sleeping space. The kitchen comes equipped with an electric stove, coffee maker, toaster, refrigerator, and microwave. The bathroom, though small, has everything you need. The dining table seats four, and the views out the back are quite lovely.

Wandering Star Ranch

99%

(43)

44mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)

Silver Spur Ranch

100%

(5)

36mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV

Creek side "Oasis" located close by to the Kern River Valley and Lake Isabella Located in a valley that meets the junction of the High Sierras and Mojave region Here at the ranch are 110 acres of open space with a wooded creek side ! There is a large yard and lawn area by the site RV sites with hookups are available at $65 nightly T Mobil cell service available at the ranch (No Att or Verizon) Wifi available "silver spur ranch" ask for passcode Sequoia Nat Forest is nearby and also a network of OHV trails close by ! Also a 2 bedroom cabin is available to rent here at the ranch ..

Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%

(2)

41mi from California City · 1 site · Tent

Escape to a living oasis on our family land lab in the middle of the Great Mojave Desert! Located right off Historic Route 66, Wild Wash Ranch is situated at the top of a hill boasting 360 degree views of the Mojave River to the West, The San Bernardino Mountains to the South, Silver Lakes to the North, and the vast open desert to the East. THIS IS A WORKING REGENERATIVE FARM. We harvest rainwater from our farm structures, produce our own energy, grow and raise fruit trees, fodder trees, native plants, chickens, rabbits, and dogs. Our farm is carefully managed every day in order to ensure a regenerative future of local ecological resilience. We welcome anyone interested in learning about and participating in protecting our desert and working with nature to produce abundance for all! Less than 5 miles away from the farm is the community of Silver Lakes, with grocery stores, restaurants, beaches, and parks. Very close by you’ll find famous Route 66 attractions such as Elmers Bottle Ranch, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, and Antique Station. Locals in this area also frequent nearby attractions such as Palisades Ranch, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Silverwood Lake. Immerse yourself in the future of farming at our evolving, experimental ranch, where dryland innovation meets off-grid charm. Unplug, unwind, and witness the beauty of dynamic desert resilience as you explore our rolling landscape. Watch the sunset over the Mojave River, camp under the stars and join us on a journey to redefine sustainable living – a unique adventure awaits on this eco-friendly retreat! Wild Wash Ranch is a working regenerative farm serving as the flagship demonstration site for Seeds Of Succession, a permaculture nonprofit working to empower local communities through land stewardship practices aimed toward reversing desertification, and promoting food sovereignty. Fire pit, firewood, and outdoor seating provided, as well as a rocket stove for quick, fuel efficient outdoor cooking so you won’t have to miss the sunset to prepare dinner!

Pink Palace at Storybook Farms

67%

(3)

44mi from California City · 4 sites · RVs

Learn more about this land:Dry creek bed a little hike down the hill. Surrounded by animals and hillsides we are afforded a beautiful sunrise and sunset daily. See the stars and hear nature just 10 miles away from overcrowded civilization and light pollution.

Public campgrounds near California City

100%

(5)

Breckenridge Campground

46mi from California City · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

90%

(5)

Paradise Cove Campground

47mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(8)

Hobo Campground

47mi from California City · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Sandy Flat Campground is located right along the Kern River. There is a beach with a great swimming area (you can see it on the lower left of the photo).

100%

(3)

Sandy Flat Campground

48mi from California City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

South Fork Recreation Campground

48mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Sequoia National Forest

Auxiliary Dam Campground

48mi from California City · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(1)

Old Isabella

48mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Sequoia National Forest

Camp 9 Campground

49mi from California City · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Pioneer Point Campground

49mi from California City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Boulder Gulch Campground

50mi from California City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Insane amount of fun here! Went up with some friends and had a fantastic time.

Hungry Gulch Campground

50mi from California City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Mauricio

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bare All Retreat

What stood out is not only the beautiful views but the water stream that goes through the property. Very peaceful & Cory & his wife are very welcoming and helpful!

E

Evan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Wandering Star Ranch

Loved camping at this site with my friends. There was a ton of space and we were so close to everything we wanted to do. The property backs up to BLM land so if you step out the back gate you’re able to hike beautiful peaks. There’s a pontoon feature that provides great shade, a perfect place to hang a hammock, and stunning views. There’s property is just five minutes from the lake and nature preserve where we fished all week. Mark was a great host and answered all questions leading up to the trip. This was a trip for my best friends bachelor party and was the perfect spot for our group. Couldn’t have been happier. Will definitely be back with my wife soon. Thanks Mark!

Juniper shade with cooking pit: allows 3 two-man tents

B

Ben

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Double Triangle Ranch

We had a great stay at Juniper for 2 nights. The site host, Brian, was friendly and very helpful. Wonderful stargazing at night and good privacy, and we enjoyed having access to an outdoor shower right at our site. Would stay again!

Gina

September 2025

37 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Silver Spur Ranch

We went back to Silver Spur Ranch for another rafting trip with Momentum Expeditions. The site is exactly the way it was with full hookups and well maintained. I was talking to John and learned that there are a couple of ther sites that looked maintained as well. I told John I’d name the sites for him. It seemed like he didn’t mind. The RV sites are situated next to large trees that provide shade. We booked the same site that we stayed at in June 2025, which I named Cottonwood tree. The other RV site has an Elm tree. There’s a Yellow house that is used for lodging. Overall, as I mentioned in my first review, Silver Spur Ranch is peaceful and quiet. There’s a creek that has clear water flowing through it that you can stare at and be mesmerized. We saw a mini rapid.

M

Maya

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Wandering Star Ranch

My group loved tent camping here at wandering star ranch! The property is huge and BLM land is incredibly close! This spot is absolutely amazing if you like off roading and shooting! We brought our dirt bike and had a BLAST!! There is a little shooting range up the hill too! The lake is close enough to go fishing too and if you run out of any supplies there is a market and gas station close by as well! The restroom was clean but there were a few black widows in there so make sure you bring something along to remove them! Mark was a great host! He was quick with responses and very helpful! We added firewood and the soak tub to our trip and mark set it all up very quickly! We will most definitely be back to camp here again!!

l

louise

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Double Triangle Ranch

We loved the camping spot and the hospitality of the host. We were welcomed and shown around the gardens, which made a great start of the stay. The view is absolutely stunning! We would come back and will recommend this to anyone visiting the area :)

B

Ben

August 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Silver Spur Ranch

John is a fantastic host. Our time on his ranch was amazing, truly a beautiful property! He accommodated an extra days stay at another space on the property which allowed us to fully enjoy our time at the river, even though it was a last minute request. The dogs were able to roam around unleashed and the kids rode their bikes and quad around until the batteries ran out. We had a great time in the Kern River Valley, thanks to John and his laid back, but welcoming and flexible style. I'd recommend a stay here anytime, and we'd definitely come back when we can!

J

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Bare All Retreat

Cory and his family are amazing! The spot is as described. Get ready for wild animals and no reception! Family had a blast playing in the river and enjoying what farm life has to offer.

Cesar

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Silver Spur Ranch

Silver Spur Ranch is a true oasis. John was extremely accommodating and friendly as he welcomed us in at the gate. The property is amazing and the bathroom was conveniently located near the tent site. We went there to escape the firework noise in the city for our pup, and it did not disappoint. We love how close the creek is to the campsite and appreciate how many picnic table are there for our use. We ended up having lunch down at the creek. Also! There's tons of tree to offer shade on property. We are excited to go back and hopefully check out the Airstream or cabin.

A

Arada

July 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bare All Retreat

Corey’s farm is the ultimate farm camping experience. It has everything you’d need. We had a blast. Their instructions were really easy to follow. Road to get there is beautiful and their land is clean. The campsite had all the amenities I’d like to have. (Electricity, water and sewage hookups). They were available if we needed anything. Also they have large dogs that are the friendliest farm dogs that you’d ever encounter. I highly recommend everyone to stay here and experience this gem of a campground.

Gina

June 2025

19 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Silver Spur Ranch

John’s place is perfect for base camp. We went river rafting on the Forks of the Kern for 3 days with Momentum Expeditions located in Wofford Heights. The RV site is exactly as described…full hookups and shade. John met us when we arrived and helped my husband back in to the site. Overall, Silver Spur Ranch is peaceful and quiet. We felt comfortable leaving our trailer unattended. We’d definitely stay here again when we’re back in the area to go river rafting.

H

Hlenhart

June 2025

25 ft travel trailer

14 nights at Bare All Retreat

June 2025 25ft Travel Trailer We had an amazing time camping at Bear all Retreat. Corey’s place is 130 plus acres of pure-outdoor bliss. Creek with clear streaming water, amazing views, starry nights and campfires right outside our door. Free range cows, horses, goats, pigs, and chickens, greeted us daily and provided us with entertainment. The family dogs came to visit often hanging out with us keeping us safe and our dog enjoyed making new friends. We hiked and walked on trails collecting pinecones, pine nuts, watercress and fell asleep to the chorus of the frogs in the creek. Corey’s wife Alicia and kids were so kind and gracious sharing with us fresh farm eggs, goats milk, points of interest around the area and pleasant conversation. Camping the way it is ment to be, cant speak highly enough of this hidden gem. We will surely be returning to Bear all Retreat to clear our mind and soul while camping and hiking in the great our doors.

Z

Zoe

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

Roy did a great job of creating a super private little camp site. The views were spectacular and it was close to a lot of cool activities! I would definitely recommend!!

D

DeNiesha

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Double Triangle Ranch

The stay was amazing and much needed. A true camping experience and unbothered. We did the tour and it was nice to see all the plants and animals… the definition of truly camping under the stars. We will be back!

D

Dylan

April 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wandering Star Ranch

I loved camping at wandering star ranch! Beautiful campground, plenty of space to explore. The views of lake Isabella were amazing! The concrete pad and pontoon boat made excellent locations to cook dinner and relax. Booking, checking in, checking out were all straight forward and easy. Toilet was clean. Will for sure be returning in the future!

Katie

April 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

The property has a sweet, private enclosure to pitch your tent with a firepit, table and chairs, and water. And some pretty sweet dogs to greet you. :) It was also cool to see the early stages of a desert permaculture farm.

Jack

March 2025

Tent

1 night at Double Triangle Ranch

Beautiful space! Great hosts. The solar powered water device is really impressive

A

Anthony

March 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Double Triangle Ranch

If you live in the LA area or anywhere around the area of Kern this place is special. The spaces they have for RVs, campers, camper vans or rooftop tents this is an amazing place. You are completely out of the way so personally I felt safe here. The owners are really nice and super helpful. Weather your fishing, hiking, or just exploring the owner has 15 archers you can explore right off the back. If you hike the whole thing it’s amazing. Over all would highly recommend.

Razz

February 2025

21 ft campervan

1 night at Double Triangle Ranch

What a truly magical spot there on the side of beautiful mountains overlooking the Kern River Valley. Super peaceful.. great spot to reconnect with the oneness that we all are! I’ll most certainly will return for future visits!! #yeehaw🤠🎸💪🏼🌞 Razz The Roaming Hillbilly

T

Teresa

February 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wandering Star Ranch

My friends and I tent camped here for the long weekend and had the best time! Super easy to spread out yet still be together. Excessible to a lot near by and the perfect little get away to go on a hike or fish.