The best star host campgrounds near Kernville, California

A peaceful town outside Bakersfield, Kernville provides a rich Sierra Nevada experience (think granite peaks, sequoia trees, and swimming holes) without the crowds of Sierra hot spots like Lake Tahoe and Yosemite further north. The town is set on the banks of the Kern River, right before it feeds into Lake Isabella, where rafting, boating, fishing, and swimming are all popular, especially during the hot summer months. Visitors won’t have to stray far for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, peak bagging, hot springs, and skiing, either. Kernville is also just a few hours from Sequoia National Park and Whitney Portal.

99% (972)

Top-rated campgrounds near Kernville

A peaceful town outside Bakersfield, Kernville provides a rich Sierra Nevada experience (think granite peaks, sequoia trees, and swimming holes) without the crowds of Sierra hot spots like Lake Tahoe and Yosemite further north. The town is set on the banks of the Kern River, right before it feeds into Lake Isabella, where rafting, boating, fishing, and swimming are all popular, especially during the hot summer months. Visitors won’t have to stray far for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, peak bagging, hot springs, and skiing, either. Kernville is also just a few hours from Sequoia National Park and Whitney Portal.

99% (972)

Top-rated campgrounds near Kernville

1. Double Triangle Ranch

98%

(58)

9.8mi from Kernville · 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.

2. Silver Spur Ranch

100%

(5)

17mi from Kernville · 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 ..

3. Off My Rocker Retreat

100%

(18)

11mi from Kernville · 2 sites · RVs

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.

4. "paradise is within you"

100%

(16)

46mi from Kernville · 3 sites · Lodging

Sequoia forest secret, Paradise Ranch inn is Glamping Bell tents on wooden decks just 100 feet from river with spectacular mountain views all tents include queen beds and sheets bathhouse with showers and toilets. full bar outdoor kitchen with burners water and utensils. all you need to bring is your bag of ICE. This romantic and secluded property has trail and a plenty of private swim holes. Soft opening for summer 2022. with the Sequoia national forest in the backyard and 5min drive down the road to ladybug trail and other park trails .

5. Antelope Canyon Ranch

98%

(61)

48mi from Kernville · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

The Ranch has many varied sites to explore from oak woodlands to pine covered woods. The ownership of the land has been held since 1883 by the Summit Lime Company and was until the 1930's the site of several lime quarries one of which was used to supply material for the Owens valley to Los Angeles aquaduct. Current utilization is for recreation, private hunting club, timber production, and cattle grazing. The campground was built in 1967 to provide a location for church, non-profit, and youth groups to enjoy a private, and safe location for outdoor recreation activities. Camping is restricted to family and group activities. The campground has 17 sites a comfort station, water hook-ups, fire ring, and 4X8 foot stone BAR-B-Que. In order to provide a private experience no two groups are scheduled at the same time. An ideal group size is 15 to 150 persons.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

3 nights at "paradise is within you"

This place is special! It is glamping at its finest. The setting by the river is beautiful, the outdoor kitchen makes cooking fun and easy and the yurts v comfortable. There is so much to do on this property from exploring the river and swimming holes to reading and napping in one of the many nooks by the river. Just spectacular. Kenneth has really made this a retreat.

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.

Pinjamari

August 2025

Weekend Trip to "paradise is within you"

We spent two nights at this retreat, and it truly felt like discovering a hidden paradise. At first, we weren’t even sure we’d find it, as it’s tucked away in a quiet mountain pass – but once we arrived, that sense of seclusion became one of the best things about the stay. Our tent was spacious and comfortable, and the whole area radiated peace and calm. After a long day of hiking, nothing compared to stepping into the warm sauna and then plunging into the crisp, refreshing mountain river. In the evenings, we sat under the dazzling night sky, listening to the gentle murmur of the water as it carried us into sleep. The place had everything we could have asked for: clean toilets and showers, a small outdoor gym, and a well-equipped kitchen. Mornings came with a few curious wasps buzzing around our breakfast, but they never stung – just a small reminder that in nature, we share the space with its little inhabitants. The mattress in our tent was also a little sunken in the middle, creating a slight dip, but despite that we still slept deeply and comfortably. What really tied it all together was Kenneth, our kind host, who made sure every detail was taken care of and that everyone felt welcome. Thanks to him, and to the setting itself, this retreat felt less like a stay and more like a little escape into another world.

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!

D

Daniel

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Antelope Canyon Ranch

We loved camping at this site. Steve was a gracious and communicative site manager. We'd love to come every year!

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.

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.

S

Shayna

June 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Antelope Canyon Ranch

We had our wedding here over the weekend and I can only say good things about this place. Clean, nice bathroom and showers, huge fire pit, plenty of picnic benches, and large spots to camp at. It is a beautiful property and glad we were able to have our family and friends here. Steve, who showed us the property and campground was extremely helpful and generous. Glad we were able to meet with him a few times and during our stay. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

A

Allen

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Antelope Canyon Ranch

Great place to have to ourselves. Steve the caretaker was very responsive. Expensive so better for a big group.

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!

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.

N

Nina

March 2025

28 ft Class C

Group trip

1 night at Off My Rocker Retreat

Great place! Very nice people. Views were spectacular, very peaceful with a full sky of stars. Little bumpy of a road going back to the property but would highly recommend it. The chicken dad even gave us multiple eggs!!

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

Wendy

December 2024

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Off My Rocker Retreat

Bree was so great at communication. We went to Remington Hot Springs for the day, just 20 minutes away. Which was amazing. She made sure we knew all the details to get there. She also offered an adapter for our 30amp if we wanted to plug in. The site is level and full of wood chips. Her sweet son also gave us some eggs for breakfast! There’s not a ton of camping options around. Getting to meet Bree and her son was definitely a highlight. We were safe and sound, in basically their front yard.

The best campsites available this weekend near Kernville

Wandering Star Ranch

99%

(43)

9.3mi from Kernville · 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)

Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%

(26)

10mi from Kernville · 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!

The Squattage in the Sequoia National Forest!

97%

(76)

15mi from Kernville · 1 site · Lodging

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👍

Kernville Ranch

100%

(20)

1mi from Kernville · 5 sites · Lodging

Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 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,

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

95%

(224)

44mi from Kernville · 24 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our new resort with breathtaking views our 100 acre RV retreat and our nearly 1 mile shoreline of beautiful Olancha Lake with the majestic snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and Death Valley to the east make for an incredible retreat. We are located near Lone Pine in the township of Olancha in the Owens Valley of California.

Star Host camping experiences near Kernville

Antelope Canyon Ranch

98%

(61)

48mi from Kernville · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

The Ranch has many varied sites to explore from oak woodlands to pine covered woods. The ownership of the land has been held since 1883 by the Summit Lime Company and was until the 1930's the site of several lime quarries one of which was used to supply material for the Owens valley to Los Angeles aquaduct. Current utilization is for recreation, private hunting club, timber production, and cattle grazing. The campground was built in 1967 to provide a location for church, non-profit, and youth groups to enjoy a private, and safe location for outdoor recreation activities. Camping is restricted to family and group activities. The campground has 17 sites a comfort station, water hook-ups, fire ring, and 4X8 foot stone BAR-B-Que. In order to provide a private experience no two groups are scheduled at the same time. An ideal group size is 15 to 150 persons.

Double Triangle Ranch

98%

(58)

9.8mi from Kernville · 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.

Off My Rocker Retreat

100%

(18)

11mi from Kernville · 2 sites · RVs

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.

Silver Spur Ranch

100%

(5)

17mi from Kernville · 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 ..

"paradise is within you"

100%

(16)

46mi from Kernville · 3 sites · Lodging

Sequoia forest secret, Paradise Ranch inn is Glamping Bell tents on wooden decks just 100 feet from river with spectacular mountain views all tents include queen beds and sheets bathhouse with showers and toilets. full bar outdoor kitchen with burners water and utensils. all you need to bring is your bag of ICE. This romantic and secluded property has trail and a plenty of private swim holes. Soft opening for summer 2022. with the Sequoia national forest in the backyard and 5min drive down the road to ladybug trail and other park trails .

The best dog-friendly campsites near Kernville

Kernville Ranch

100%

(20)

1mi from Kernville · 5 sites · Lodging

Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 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,

A Unique Mountain Retreat

99%

(289)

47mi from Kernville · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat that will give you the peace, quiet and tranquility you are looking for. An energy efficient Uniquely designed home that is off the grid and has a very green footprint with solar and windmill to charge batteries. Oak and pine tree covered acres with fitness and nature trails around the property. Each level campsite with picnic table is designed for privacy with plenty of distance between sites and mountain views in every direction, along with an optional gas log fire pit and BBQ. There is plenty of clean, non potable drinking water, custom built toilets and optional hot showers, limited electrical use, cell phone charging and low power use devices as I am off grid. There is a fitness and nature trail on the property and Pacific Crest trail is approx 20 to 30 min drive, Mountain park which has many miles of hiking trails and an Indian reservation with hikes to many petroglphs. Things to see are the World famous Tehachapi railway loop, historic downtown, vineyards, mountain spirit center a Buddhist temple, glider rides, bicycle riding and fishing. There is cell service around the property but intermittent at the campsites.

Wandering Star Ranch

99%

(43)

9.3mi from Kernville · 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)

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

95%

(224)

44mi from Kernville · 24 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our new resort with breathtaking views our 100 acre RV retreat and our nearly 1 mile shoreline of beautiful Olancha Lake with the majestic snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and Death Valley to the east make for an incredible retreat. We are located near Lone Pine in the township of Olancha in the Owens Valley of California.

Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%

(26)

10mi from Kernville · 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!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping near Kernville guide

Where to go

Kern River and Lake Isabella

The Kern River and Lake Isabell are two destination-worthy attractions right at Kernville’s doorstep. The river is popular with tubers, rafters, and fly fishers. There are natural hot springs (Miracle and Remington) on the Kern River just 17 miles from Kernville. Lake Isabella has boulder-strewn beaches, boat launches, and watercraft rental facilities.

Local Mountains

Kernville is nestled below a variety of Southern Sierra parks and peaks with mountain biking and hiking trails. At 6,000 feet, Greenhorn Mountain Park is a great local spot to fill the lungs with mountain air. Come winter, the Alta Sierra Ski Resort has downhill runs just 30 minutes from Kernville.

Sequoia National Forest

Kernville is situated on the southern boundary of the Sequoia National Forest, a 1.2-million-acre swath of the Sierra Nevada range. Highlights here include the granite towers of the Needles rock climbing crag and Long Meadow Grove, an old-growth sequoia forest with ancient, colossal trees. This area can serve as a great alternative to Grant’s Grove of the Sequoia National Park further north.

Mojave Desert and the Eastern Sierra

For a major change of scenery, drive east from Kernville and watch the landscape and flora transform as you descend into the Mojave Desert. From here, Route 395 will take you north into Owen’s Valley, where Lone Pine and the Whitney Portal offer spectacular views of the Eastern Sierra.

When to go

Due to its southern location and relatively low elevation of 2,667 feet, Kernville is a great year-round destination. Winter visitors should prepare for snow and below freezing temperatures. Spring and fall tend to be mild and dependable times to visit Kernville. Summer travelers may want to track the weather and avoid heat waves. Late summer and fall visitors should also monitor air quality if there are wildfires in the region.