The best desert campgrounds near Porterville, California

Looking to camp in the desert near Porterville, California? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for finding the perfect campsite. With over 720 options available, you're sure to find the ideal spot for your desert adventure. Whether you're looking for a secluded oasis or a campsite with all the amenities, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews), and Blue Sky Center (343 reviews). With popular amenities like showers, potable water, and trash facilities, as well as activities such as hiking, snow sports, and whitewater paddling, your desert camping experience will be nothing short of amazing. And with an average price per night of $36 and options as low as $5, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

95% (210)

Top-rated campgrounds near Porterville

Looking to camp in the desert near Porterville, California? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for finding the perfect campsite. With over 720 options available, you're sure to find the ideal spot for your desert adventure. Whether you're looking for a secluded oasis or a campsite with all the amenities, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews), and Blue Sky Center (343 reviews). With popular amenities like showers, potable water, and trash facilities, as well as activities such as hiking, snow sports, and whitewater paddling, your desert camping experience will be nothing short of amazing. And with an average price per night of $36 and options as low as $5, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

95% (210)

Top-rated campgrounds near Porterville

1. Underworld Farms

86%

(43)

41mi from Porterville · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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 our son's 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 drive your vehicle and pitch a tent on one of our tent friendly sports. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. The campground is VERY barebones and rural. Critters, bugs, and sometimes fellow Hipcampers can be sparce or prevalent pretty randomly. Because Underworld Farms is a working ranch, you will probably hear livestock noises like horses neighing, sheep and goats calling, and our protector dogs barking from time to time. We encourage you to walk over to the horses and goats and meet them. They especially like when you bring them carrots or apple pieces. The ranch has a double outhouse with a hand washing station sandwiched in between, it is rustic and bare bones. We check it to see if it has paper products, soap, water, and plenty of room in the trash bins. During the hotter months, the "daddy longleg" spiders enjoy infiltrating the outhouses and seem to spin new webs overnight. But they and their webs are harmless and easy to brush off. We ask for your assistance if there is something missing, or the trash needs taking out, or if the spiders have taken over again by getting ahold of us through the Hipcamp App and letting us know. With all that being said, there is an ambient beauty here that is unbelievable and memorable. This beauty and draw is so powerful that it causes the many people who come visit to make arrangements to live in our little valley. There is much to do in and around our valley that you couldn't do it all in a lifetime. We hope that you come and stay at the ranch while enjoying our valley. May you have a great time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS

2. Kernville Ranch

100%

(20)

41mi from Porterville · 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,

3. Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

96%

(28)

44mi from Porterville · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging

Okihi is a unique sanctuary where habitat restoration meets outdoor adventure. Nestled in a diverse landscape, we focus on healing the land through hands-on conservation while offering a space to connect with nature, camp, and learn. This is not your average campground, so i make sure to look over the rules. They will be enforced to keep a tranquil vibe. Restore and Explore We’re committed to revitalizing native habitats—our land is a living example of ecological renewal. Wander scenic trails, enjoy wildlife, and witness the power of restoration in action. Sustainable Farming and Livestock Our animals play a key role in regeneration. Horses, sheep, goats, turkeys, and chickens help manage invasive weeds and maintain healthy ecosystems. We compost all their manure, turning waste into valuable resources for soil health. Camping and Community Camp under the stars, explore nature, and join us for seasonal events and workshops focused on sustainability, conservation, and community. Whether you're here to camp, hike, or volunteer, Okihi is a place where nature and people come together for a common cause. Okihi is more than a destination—it's a living example of land restoration, sustainable living, and the power of community. Come explore, learn, and make a difference! Okihi is approximately 15 minutes east of Downtown Bakersfield. 20 minutes away from the 99 hwy or 178 hwy. Whichever way you are traveling, we are a great stopover point. Sites are spread around on the east side of the property facing the river for beautiful river views while you sip coffee from your site. There are a multitude of recreation opportunities to enjoy. On site there is hiking, places to practice yoga or meditate, kayaking, paddle boarding. We also have a hammock veranda that is fully shaded and a great place to relax along the river. Miles of biking paths run on the road right by where we are situated and there is a nearby river rafting company if you want the white water experience. Most of our campers are road tripping, getting away from LA, or are looking for a stopover on their way to/from Yosemite, Sequoia, Joshua Tree, etc. We are in a desert climate – cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Portable heaters or fans with misting options are available for rent.

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. Thistledew Ranch

94%

(55)

44mi from Porterville · 1 site · Tent, RV

Secluded, private, semi-dry camping at 4000 ft. with an RV accessible pull thru. Located 15 minutes from Sequoia National Park entrance. The view to the east is the western edge of the Sequoia National Forest. This campsite is the only one on the property. Typical weather is sunny with low humidity and moderate temperatures.

6. Wandering Star Ranch

99%

(43)

48mi from Porterville · 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. Double Triangle Ranch

98%

(58)

49mi from Porterville · 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.

8. Frandy Park Campground

100%

(1)

40mi from Porterville · 106 sites

Frandy Park Campground stands out as a premier destination for families and groups seeking an unforgettable camping experience in Kernville, California, thanks to its stunning location along the Kern River, surrounded by majestic oak woodlands and steep hillsides. This unique setting offers campers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Our campground features a variety of accommodations, including back-in and pull-thru sites with water and electric hookups, as well as ample space for tent camping. Guests can take advantage of our many amenities, such as complimentary WiFi, a convenient dump station, clean showers, and outdoor games to enhance their stay. At Frandy Park, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a wide range of activities. Enjoy volleyball, tennis, and horseshoes, or venture out for kayaking, swimming, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're here to paddle down the river, explore the breathtaking Sequoia National Forest, or simply unwind in nature, Frandy Park is the ideal campground in the Kern River Valley. We look forward to welcoming you for a night or two of relaxation and adventure!

Camper favorites near Porterville

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Thistledew Ranch

94%

(55)

44mi from Porterville · 1 site · Tent, RV

Secluded, private, semi-dry camping at 4000 ft. with an RV accessible pull thru. Located 15 minutes from Sequoia National Park entrance. The view to the east is the western edge of the Sequoia National Forest. This campsite is the only one on the property. Typical weather is sunny with low humidity and moderate temperatures.

Wandering Star Ranch

99%

(43)

48mi from Porterville · 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)

Double Triangle Ranch

98%

(58)

49mi from Porterville · 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.

Frandy Park Campground

100%

(1)

40mi from Porterville · 106 sites

Frandy Park Campground stands out as a premier destination for families and groups seeking an unforgettable camping experience in Kernville, California, thanks to its stunning location along the Kern River, surrounded by majestic oak woodlands and steep hillsides. This unique setting offers campers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Our campground features a variety of accommodations, including back-in and pull-thru sites with water and electric hookups, as well as ample space for tent camping. Guests can take advantage of our many amenities, such as complimentary WiFi, a convenient dump station, clean showers, and outdoor games to enhance their stay. At Frandy Park, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a wide range of activities. Enjoy volleyball, tennis, and horseshoes, or venture out for kayaking, swimming, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're here to paddle down the river, explore the breathtaking Sequoia National Forest, or simply unwind in nature, Frandy Park is the ideal campground in the Kern River Valley. We look forward to welcoming you for a night or two of relaxation and adventure!

Public campgrounds near Porterville

100%

(5)

Wishon Campground

22mi from Porterville · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(2)

Coy Flat Campground

24mi from Porterville · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(12)

Leavis Flat Campground

24mi from Porterville · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

We fit 4 tents and 2 easy ups and a large 3 burner camp stove

100%

(3)

Belknap Campground

25mi from Porterville · 13 sites · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(16)

Redwood Meadow Campground

25mi from Porterville · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(1)

White River Campground

27mi from Porterville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

88%

(5)

Quaking Aspen Campground

28mi from Porterville · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

It is closed during the heavy snow season.

100%

(29)

Upper Peppermint Campground

29mi from Porterville · 19 sites · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(11)

Frog Meadow Campground

29mi from Porterville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(24)

Lower Peppermint Campground

30mi from Porterville · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(8)

Fairview Campground

32mi from Porterville · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Beautiful morning at the headwaters of the Kern River, Brush Creek Campsite.

100%

(1)

Brush Creek Campground

32mi from Porterville · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Kimberly

1 day ago

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Thistledew Ranch

Beautiful, private spot. As a solo, female camper I felt very safe throughout my 4 day stay. My dog and I hiked everyday. Even in the rain, it was still beautiful and very peaceful. I will definitely be back!

J

James

4 days ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Thistledew Ranch

Lovely little spot, easy for an RV or trailer. Electric and water better than most comparable spots. 20 minute drive to Kings Canyon. Friendly host. Good trees for hanging a camping hammock

Audrey

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Thistledew Ranch

This was our first time using Hipcamp and we couldn’t have asked for a better first time site than Thistledew. My husband and I, plus our two dogs, loved the site. Some highlights: - It was incredibly spacious, quiet, and accessible. - We felt comfortable letting our pups off leash due to how open and spacious the site was. - The water and electricity hookups were a total plus! - Michael was a great host and incredibly responsive to any and all questions. - Sequoia/Kings Canyon entrance was a short 20 min drive away, so it was a perfect site for an easy day trip. - The views were amazing. Some additional notes for future campers (that are not at all a negative about the site) - We were guided by our GPS to take Dry Creek Rd. This road is narrow and not suitable for wider cars. There is however a highway that also leads to the road that connects to the site. We recommend the highway for wider vehicles or those who are anxious about narrow roads. - Yes, there is a road that is next to the site. Cars are incredibly few and far in between. The road is also a good distance from the site so not at all a danger to off-leash pups. The site was secluded, and I wouldn’t let the road be a deterrent in booking. - Our 2WD vehicle made it just fine to the site. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our experience and look forward to coming back!

R

Ryan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

Katherine and Stephen have done an incredible job transforming this location into a peaceful getaway filled with places to explore and animals to meet. It's a community space where you'll see volunteers coming and going helping to complete projects and aiding in re-wilding the area. I look forward to returning and bringing more friends along.

K

Kabir

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Thistledew Ranch

Michael’s campsite was even better than advertised. Very private, expansive, and unbelievable views. My dog loved exploring the area. He was an extremely courteous host, very responsive to messages. It was a perfect location to take day hikes in the nearby parks. I will absolutely be returning

E

Emily

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

A number of awesome options from tent camping to trailers. Beautiful view and walking trails, very clean bathrooms, sweet animals, and a very friendly and accommodating host!! Highly recommend.

Edwin

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Thistledew Ranch

This campground is great! Awsome views, great location, quiet and private. There was power and water for use. Plenty of flat areas for your tent and personal camp toilet. About 15 mins from the kings canyon gate and 1hr from general sherman tree. Nearest gas station and coffee shop is about 20 minutes away.

J

Joey

October 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Thistledew Ranch

Fantastic stay on Michael’s land! Very remote and quiet. I had zero issues with mosquitos, wasps, bees, etc. The water and electrical hook up was a huge plus. If you’re looking for something off the grid that’s close to sequoia and kings canyon, this is your spot!

F

Felicia

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Kernville Ranch

Great location off the beaten path. Nice and quiet, with lots of critters to gawk at, domesticated and wild. Deer wandered by while we soaked in the hot tub watching horses, and at night we were serenaded by nearby coyotes. The property has lots of character itself and is near enough to Kernville proper to go out for a hot meal, browse its shops, or hunt-down Quartzburg ghost town (which I strongly recommend!).

j

julia

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Thistledew Ranch

It was a great spot! Beautiful & flat! Lots of trees & firewood around :) 10/10 would camp here again!!

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

Katherine was amazing. She answered all of our questions and responded to anything promptly. We'd love to stay there again if we were ever back this way.

A

Adina

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

Lovely camping site with lots of space and beautiful views of the river. Katherine, the host, was very accommodating and quick to respond!

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!

Mafe

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Kernville Ranch

Such a beautiful cabin with so much unique charm. The property itself is stunning, with horses nearby and a stream running right by the hot tub. It made for such a peaceful and memorable stay—I’d highly recommend it.

A

Adrian

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

Beautiful land. Well equipped comfy RV. Relaxing stay

A

September 2025

With pets

3 nights at Kernville Ranch

Wonderful property right off the roadway for easy access to the cabin. Host was very friendly, considerate, and communicative. I’ll rebook any time I’m in the area for work or play :)!

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!

M

Mia

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Thistledew Ranch

Great place to stay! It was our first time camping & with our 18 month old. My husband and baby loved it! The campsite was clean when arriving. They provided complementary water, fire wood & power! SUPER SAFE FOR KIDS. My baby absolutely loved it & wouldn’t stop running! :) really pretty at night too! Have in mind on visiting sequoia & kings canyon National park this is the spot to stay!

D

Darin

August 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Thistledew Ranch

The campsite was large and super-quiet - not a sound all night except the crickets. This is Michael's only site, so there was nobody around at all. We couldn't see any houses or hear any neighbors. The road is not too far off, but is very rarely traveled - we saw maybe a dozen cars in 6 hours, none came by at night. The road to the site is hard-packed soil, a little bumpy but not bad. We stayed in Michael's campsite in a 17' Casita, and the land was flat enough that we only needed a single "Lego" block to level side to side and we didn't have to unhitch to level front to back. Although we didn't use them, the campsite had water and 20 amp power to recharge the RV batteries or use the microwave. Firewood is available if you don't mind chopping - hatchet and shovels for the fire ring were provided. As another reviewer mentioned, there is a small pond that attracts insects, so that may be an issue if you cook outside. We would definitely stay here again.

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!!