The best desert camping near Springville

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Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate destination for camping enthusiasts! With over 790 options near Springville, California, with a desert terrain, we've got the perfect camping experience for you. Whether you're looking for a tranquil desert getaway or an adventurous outdoor excursion, you'll find it here. Check out top-rated campsites like Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews), and Blue Sky Center (343 reviews) for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy popular amenities such as potable water, campfires, and showers, while engaging in exciting activities like snow sports, surfing, and off-roading (OHV). So pack your gear and get ready for a one-of-a-kind camping adventure!

94% (397) 103 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Springville

Kernville Ranch

1. Kernville Ranch

100%
(20)
35mi from Springville · 5 sites
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,
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$72
 / night
Thistledew Ranch

2. Thistledew Ranch

93%
(60)
42mi from Springville · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$53
 / night
Wandering Star Ranch

3. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(45)
43mi from Springville · 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)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Sequoia National Forest

4. Sequoia National Forest

98%
(271)
National forest 19mi from Springville · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Inyo National Forest

5. Inyo National Forest

96%
(453)
National forest 44mi from Springville · 2001 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Double Triangle Ranch

6. Double Triangle Ranch

98%
(58)
43mi from Springville · 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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$41
 / night
Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

7. Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

97%
(30)
47mi from Springville · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

8. Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

95%
(236)
48mi from Springville · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
The 1963 Silver Streak – Retro Glam

9. The 1963 Silver Streak – Retro Glam

35mi from Springville · 1 site
The 1963 Silver Streak – Desert Glam Retreat 📍 Wofford Heights, California Step into a vintage 1963 Silver Streak and experience a one-of-a-kind desert escape tucked away on a quiet dead-end road against a stunning mountain backdrop. This retro two-door beauty blends nostalgic charm with modern comforts — perfect for a romantic getaway, solo reset, content creation, or a cozy stay for a couple with a small child. If you walk just 5 minutes up the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking lake view — especially magical at sunrise and sunset. ⸻ 🌄 The Location • Tucked off Wofford Heights Blvd up a scenic winding mountain road • 8 minutes to Kernville • 15 minutes to Lake Isabella • ~3 hours from Los Angeles • ~1 hour to the Trail of 100 Giants • ~10 minutes to Sequoia National Forest • ~4.5 hours to Yosemite National Park Adventure is right outside your door: ✔ Mountain biking ✔ White water rafting on the Kern River ✔ Lake activities (kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing) ✔ Hiking & scenic drives ⸻ 🛏 The Space • Sleeps up to 3 guests • 2 beds | 1 bath • Small indoor shower with hot & cold water • Outdoor soaking bathtub (currently cold water only — refreshing in summer!) • Outdoor daybed for lounging under the sky • Starlink WiFi (great for remote work or uploading content) • AC for warm desert days • Microwave • Oven • Mini fridge This quiet vintage trailer is intimate, cozy, and thoughtfully styled — perfect for dreamy photoshoots, retro content, or simply unplugging and slowing down. ⸻ 🌵 Why You’ll Love It • Vintage, one-of-a-kind stay • Mountain views right outside your door • Peaceful dead-end road (very private & quiet) • Ideal for romantic getaways • Great for creatives & content creators • Desert charm with modern essentials ⸻ Whether you’re sipping coffee outside as the sun hits the mountains, soaking in the outdoor tub under the stars, or exploring the nearby forest and river — this Silver Streak retreat is all about slowing down and soaking in the magic. Come experience retro glam in the California high desert ✨
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$110
 / night
Haiwee Flats

10. Haiwee Flats

83%
(3)
48mi from Springville · 1 site
Come and enjoy a beautiful relaxing weekend at Haiwee flats, 360 views of mountains, pull in site with easy access to the highway. Also a few miles nearby is the Haiwee Reservoir, ..please respect signs. Lots of exploring and hiking nearby. Sageflats is a nearby road that can bring you closer to the mountains. Get lost enjoy yourself.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Frandy Park Campground

11. Frandy Park Campground

100%
(1)
34mi from Springville · 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!
Olancha Resort

12. Olancha Resort

48mi from Springville · 131 sites
Nestled on 65 acres of stunning landscape, Olancha Resort stands out as a unique destination with unparalleled views of majestic mountain ranges and enchanting starry skies. To the east, you'll find the renowned Death Valley and the Whites Mountain Range, while the High Sierras, featuring the impressive Olancha Peak at 12,132 feet, rise majestically to the west. Recognized as the Gateway to Death Valley and just minutes away from Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,494 feet, our resort offers an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. On-site, guests can indulge in delicious meals at Olancha Café, which serves grass-fed beef and bison, or explore our general store stocked with exotic beers, ice cream, and unique gifts. For relaxation, enjoy our well-water swimming pool, along with convenient public restrooms, showers, and a laundromat. We also provide RV spots with 30/50 amp full hookups, as well as comfortable motel rooms, including suites and family accommodations, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. Experience the beauty and adventure that Olancha Resort has to offer!

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate destination for camping enthusiasts! With over 790 options near Springville, California, with a desert terrain, we've got the perfect camping experience for you. Whether you're looking for a tranquil desert getaway or an adventurous outdoor excursion, you'll find it here. Check out top-rated campsites like Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews), and Blue Sky Center (343 reviews) for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy popular amenities such as potable water, campfires, and showers, while engaging in exciting activities like snow sports, surfing, and off-roading (OHV). So pack your gear and get ready for a one-of-a-kind camping adventure!

94% (397) 103 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Springville

Kernville Ranch

1. Kernville Ranch

100%
(20)
35mi from Springville · 5 sites
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,
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$72
 / night
Thistledew Ranch

2. Thistledew Ranch

93%
(60)
42mi from Springville · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$53
 / night
Wandering Star Ranch

3. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(45)
43mi from Springville · 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)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Sequoia National Forest

4. Sequoia National Forest

98%
(271)
National forest 19mi from Springville · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Inyo National Forest

5. Inyo National Forest

96%
(453)
National forest 44mi from Springville · 2001 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Double Triangle Ranch

6. Double Triangle Ranch

98%
(58)
43mi from Springville · 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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$41
 / night
Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

7. Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

97%
(30)
47mi from Springville · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

8. Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

95%
(236)
48mi from Springville · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
The 1963 Silver Streak – Retro Glam

9. The 1963 Silver Streak – Retro Glam

35mi from Springville · 1 site
The 1963 Silver Streak – Desert Glam Retreat 📍 Wofford Heights, California Step into a vintage 1963 Silver Streak and experience a one-of-a-kind desert escape tucked away on a quiet dead-end road against a stunning mountain backdrop. This retro two-door beauty blends nostalgic charm with modern comforts — perfect for a romantic getaway, solo reset, content creation, or a cozy stay for a couple with a small child. If you walk just 5 minutes up the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking lake view — especially magical at sunrise and sunset. ⸻ 🌄 The Location • Tucked off Wofford Heights Blvd up a scenic winding mountain road • 8 minutes to Kernville • 15 minutes to Lake Isabella • ~3 hours from Los Angeles • ~1 hour to the Trail of 100 Giants • ~10 minutes to Sequoia National Forest • ~4.5 hours to Yosemite National Park Adventure is right outside your door: ✔ Mountain biking ✔ White water rafting on the Kern River ✔ Lake activities (kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing) ✔ Hiking & scenic drives ⸻ 🛏 The Space • Sleeps up to 3 guests • 2 beds | 1 bath • Small indoor shower with hot & cold water • Outdoor soaking bathtub (currently cold water only — refreshing in summer!) • Outdoor daybed for lounging under the sky • Starlink WiFi (great for remote work or uploading content) • AC for warm desert days • Microwave • Oven • Mini fridge This quiet vintage trailer is intimate, cozy, and thoughtfully styled — perfect for dreamy photoshoots, retro content, or simply unplugging and slowing down. ⸻ 🌵 Why You’ll Love It • Vintage, one-of-a-kind stay • Mountain views right outside your door • Peaceful dead-end road (very private & quiet) • Ideal for romantic getaways • Great for creatives & content creators • Desert charm with modern essentials ⸻ Whether you’re sipping coffee outside as the sun hits the mountains, soaking in the outdoor tub under the stars, or exploring the nearby forest and river — this Silver Streak retreat is all about slowing down and soaking in the magic. Come experience retro glam in the California high desert ✨
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$110
 / night
Haiwee Flats

10. Haiwee Flats

83%
(3)
48mi from Springville · 1 site
Come and enjoy a beautiful relaxing weekend at Haiwee flats, 360 views of mountains, pull in site with easy access to the highway. Also a few miles nearby is the Haiwee Reservoir, ..please respect signs. Lots of exploring and hiking nearby. Sageflats is a nearby road that can bring you closer to the mountains. Get lost enjoy yourself.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Frandy Park Campground

11. Frandy Park Campground

100%
(1)
34mi from Springville · 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!
Olancha Resort

12. Olancha Resort

48mi from Springville · 131 sites
Nestled on 65 acres of stunning landscape, Olancha Resort stands out as a unique destination with unparalleled views of majestic mountain ranges and enchanting starry skies. To the east, you'll find the renowned Death Valley and the Whites Mountain Range, while the High Sierras, featuring the impressive Olancha Peak at 12,132 feet, rise majestically to the west. Recognized as the Gateway to Death Valley and just minutes away from Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,494 feet, our resort offers an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. On-site, guests can indulge in delicious meals at Olancha Café, which serves grass-fed beef and bison, or explore our general store stocked with exotic beers, ice cream, and unique gifts. For relaxation, enjoy our well-water swimming pool, along with convenient public restrooms, showers, and a laundromat. We also provide RV spots with 30/50 amp full hookups, as well as comfortable motel rooms, including suites and family accommodations, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. Experience the beauty and adventure that Olancha Resort has to offer!

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field