Discover the best lakeside campgrounds near Tehachapi, California with campfires

United States
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California
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Tehachapi

98% (478 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Tehachapi

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

93%

(188)

Havilah Pines homestead

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Havilah, CA

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

Tam's Wilderness Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Tehachapi, CA

Hiking trails, wineries nearby, Two Lakes nearby 1mile - 1.5 miles away (boating, fishing) rare herbs on the land, game boards, ping pong tables, biking trails, hunting near by, Animal farms near by, Antique shops Old Town to Shopping, visit one of the oldest train railways depot stations, star gazing at night with the clear skies over Tehachapi. Outdoor game's available at check-in. Contact host. Cornhole, dart games, volleyball, board games, etc. with a held Driver License until returned.

100%

(4)

The River Haven House

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Bakersfield, CA

The River Haven House, nestled on a unique 2.5-acre property on Kern River with private river access, perfect for couples or small families. A beautifully updated Spanish-style home welcomes you with a fully stocked kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, and a cozy yet spacious patio area for barbecue & entertaining. Perfect for nature lovers! A true oasis awaits! Surrounded by mature trees, green lawns, fruit & nut trees within a privately gated space, this property is all about the outdoors! You are sure to realize that once you arrive. Upon entering through the private gate, you are greeted by a large, welcoming driveway with the main home and garage to your right. Slow down time as you walk around the property and take it all in. Enjoy the well-maintained landscaping, lush gardens and the private river access. The beautiful Spanish-style home includes a full kitchen, living room, dining room and main bedroom. The bedroom is furnished with a King size bed and includes a walk-in closet & full bathroom. Just outside the main home is the attached, extra-large garage where you will find the second bedroom. This bedroom also houses a King size bed, but also includes a comfortably sized bunk bed with two full mattresses and a single trundle pullout. This space also has a full bathroom and laundry room. The large garage makes for a great hang out area where you will find comfy sofas, a wood-burning fireplace, kids play area, TV and games. The main home exits to the patio area where you will find multiple cooking options: a propane Weber grill, a Big Green Egg grill & smoker, a pizza oven, a and charcoal grill and to toast your hands & feet, a built-in outdoor fireplace. Enjoy the night sky as you sit out under the stars with romantic string lights draped overhead and enjoy the fresh air while the fireplace or fire pit keep you warm. The property has direct and exclusive access to the Kern River where you can swim, tube, sunbathe and fish. You are welcome to pitch a tent by the river; however, we ask that you please notify us as the lawn irrigation is fully sprinkler operated. Just on the other side of the river you will find the California Living Museum (local zoo), Lake Ming, Kern River Golf Course, multiple riverfront picnic spots, Miracle Hot Springs up the mountain, hiking trails, nature walks. and more! Less than an hour up the road are wilderness camp sites and Lake Isabella. Continuing onward is the Sequoia National Forest where you can visit for the day knowing a comfortable & safe home will be welcoming your return. *No parties or events allowed (Please, no music or loud noises allowed outside of the home). This is a extremely quiet neighbrohood and noise travels fast & easily. Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. The property is equiped with noise monitoring devices and occupancy count devices, we will be notified if noise levels exceed a certain level. Additionally we will be notified if occupancy count exceeds the number of guests booked on site. *Smoking allowed outdoors only. *Shoes off inside the house. *Children MUST be supervised and monitored at all times. *No surprise guests, only those accounted for and registered can enter the property. *No firearms *Please do not put grease or solid food down the kitchen sink. Septik tank is sensitive *Please do no flush wipes, paper or feminine products down the toilet as the septik tank is sensitive. *This is a rural property and as such, there is wildlife which includes: rabbits, squirrels, rats, mice, coyotes, snakes, lizards, birds, bugs, and spiders, to name a few. *Please keep the doors closed to prevent the above wildlife from joining you in the home during your stay. *There are five secuirty cameras on the property for safety reasons. One at the main gate, one at the main home, one at the corner of the garage, one at the carport and one by the river. NONE in the house. *The canvas bell tent can also be booked for camping by the river, which could sleep 3-6 people, inquire within. *Pets are allowed on the property (fee's apply), however must be monitored at all times and not left alone. Pets must be kept close to owners at all times to avoid issues with wildlife, no pets on the furniture and beds. A fine will be applied if pets have been lounging on bedding and furniture.

92%

(6)

Underworld Farms

15 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Kernville, CA

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

100%

(26)

Wandering Star Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent15 acres · Weldon, CA

Learn more about this land:A large private dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental. 7 night maximum. Longer possible with discussion. 15 acres yours to enjoy. Pass through our gates straight into BrightStar Wilderness BLM. Ride your dirt bikes, ATV's, horses. Play your music, let your dogs run free... Great star gazing. Primitive firing range two minute walk away, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking. Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake .The Brightstar wilderness extends to Jawbone canyon.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.Verizon has good service Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away.(Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)

10 top lakeside campgrounds near Tehachapi with campfires

93%

(188)

Havilah Pines homestead

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Havilah, CA

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

99%

(480)

Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Wofford Heights, CA

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

Tam's Wilderness Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Tehachapi, CA

Hiking trails, wineries nearby, Two Lakes nearby 1mile - 1.5 miles away (boating, fishing) rare herbs on the land, game boards, ping pong tables, biking trails, hunting near by, Animal farms near by, Antique shops Old Town to Shopping, visit one of the oldest train railways depot stations, star gazing at night with the clear skies over Tehachapi. Outdoor game's available at check-in. Contact host. Cornhole, dart games, volleyball, board games, etc. with a held Driver License until returned.

Underworld Farms

15 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Kernville, CA

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

Double Triangle Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Weldon, CA

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

The River Haven House

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Bakersfield, CA

The River Haven House, nestled on a unique 2.5-acre property on Kern River with private river access, perfect for couples or small families. A beautifully updated Spanish-style home welcomes you with a fully stocked kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, and a cozy yet spacious patio area for barbecue & entertaining. Perfect for nature lovers! A true oasis awaits! Surrounded by mature trees, green lawns, fruit & nut trees within a privately gated space, this property is all about the outdoors! You are sure to realize that once you arrive. Upon entering through the private gate, you are greeted by a large, welcoming driveway with the main home and garage to your right. Slow down time as you walk around the property and take it all in. Enjoy the well-maintained landscaping, lush gardens and the private river access. The beautiful Spanish-style home includes a full kitchen, living room, dining room and main bedroom. The bedroom is furnished with a King size bed and includes a walk-in closet & full bathroom. Just outside the main home is the attached, extra-large garage where you will find the second bedroom. This bedroom also houses a King size bed, but also includes a comfortably sized bunk bed with two full mattresses and a single trundle pullout. This space also has a full bathroom and laundry room. The large garage makes for a great hang out area where you will find comfy sofas, a wood-burning fireplace, kids play area, TV and games. The main home exits to the patio area where you will find multiple cooking options: a propane Weber grill, a Big Green Egg grill & smoker, a pizza oven, a and charcoal grill and to toast your hands & feet, a built-in outdoor fireplace. Enjoy the night sky as you sit out under the stars with romantic string lights draped overhead and enjoy the fresh air while the fireplace or fire pit keep you warm. The property has direct and exclusive access to the Kern River where you can swim, tube, sunbathe and fish. You are welcome to pitch a tent by the river; however, we ask that you please notify us as the lawn irrigation is fully sprinkler operated. Just on the other side of the river you will find the California Living Museum (local zoo), Lake Ming, Kern River Golf Course, multiple riverfront picnic spots, Miracle Hot Springs up the mountain, hiking trails, nature walks. and more! Less than an hour up the road are wilderness camp sites and Lake Isabella. Continuing onward is the Sequoia National Forest where you can visit for the day knowing a comfortable & safe home will be welcoming your return. *No parties or events allowed (Please, no music or loud noises allowed outside of the home). This is a extremely quiet neighbrohood and noise travels fast & easily. Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. The property is equiped with noise monitoring devices and occupancy count devices, we will be notified if noise levels exceed a certain level. Additionally we will be notified if occupancy count exceeds the number of guests booked on site. *Smoking allowed outdoors only. *Shoes off inside the house. *Children MUST be supervised and monitored at all times. *No surprise guests, only those accounted for and registered can enter the property. *No firearms *Please do not put grease or solid food down the kitchen sink. Septik tank is sensitive *Please do no flush wipes, paper or feminine products down the toilet as the septik tank is sensitive. *This is a rural property and as such, there is wildlife which includes: rabbits, squirrels, rats, mice, coyotes, snakes, lizards, birds, bugs, and spiders, to name a few. *Please keep the doors closed to prevent the above wildlife from joining you in the home during your stay. *There are five secuirty cameras on the property for safety reasons. One at the main gate, one at the main home, one at the corner of the garage, one at the carport and one by the river. NONE in the house. *The canvas bell tent can also be booked for camping by the river, which could sleep 3-6 people, inquire within. *Pets are allowed on the property (fee's apply), however must be monitored at all times and not left alone. Pets must be kept close to owners at all times to avoid issues with wildlife, no pets on the furniture and beds. A fine will be applied if pets have been lounging on bedding and furniture.

Wandering Star Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent15 acres · Weldon, CA

Learn more about this land:A large private dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental. 7 night maximum. Longer possible with discussion. 15 acres yours to enjoy. Pass through our gates straight into BrightStar Wilderness BLM. Ride your dirt bikes, ATV's, horses. Play your music, let your dogs run free... Great star gazing. Primitive firing range two minute walk away, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking. Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake .The Brightstar wilderness extends to Jawbone canyon.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.Verizon has good service Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away.(Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)

100%

(7)

Kernville Ranch

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Kernville, CA

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,

88%

(16)

Shirley Creek Retreat

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Wofford Heights, CA

Beautiful mountain retreat surrounded by wilderness. Great place to just relax, breath and enjoy or have outdoor adventures via hiking trails, water play on the lake or Kern River, visit the trail of 100 Giants, white water rafting, fishing and snow skiing in Alta Vista! Cute retro movie theater in town or dining and entertainment in Kernville, home of the world famous Kernville Brewery. Cute additional cabin that sleeps two as an additional space for the kids or adventurous adults.Learn more about this land:Great location for outdoor & indoor adventure for you & your whole family! Beautiful view from mega deck, retro cabin that sleeps 6, fire pit, steps to seasonal creek full of swimming holes, beautiful mountain trails just outside your door. Lake Isabella, Kern River, Alta Vista Ski Resort & Remington Mineral Baths all within 15 minutes yet relax in solitude on 1/2 acre property surrounded by government land. Wood burning stove, traditional heat & air; everything to make your stay comfy & fun! Pet friendly. Place for tents as well as comfy cabin.

Saved 17 times

The Stone Home

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Bodfish, CA

Learn more about this land: My space is a 2800 sq ft home ideal for larger groups. It has everything you need for a comfortable stay, whether you’re staying one night or seven nights.

Star Hosts in Tehachapi

100%

(26)

Wandering Star Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent15 acres · Weldon, CA

Learn more about this land:A large private dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental. 7 night maximum. Longer possible with discussion. 15 acres yours to enjoy. Pass through our gates straight into BrightStar Wilderness BLM. Ride your dirt bikes, ATV's, horses. Play your music, let your dogs run free... Great star gazing. Primitive firing range two minute walk away, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking. Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake .The Brightstar wilderness extends to Jawbone canyon.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.Verizon has good service Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away.(Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)

Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Wofford Heights, CA

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

Kernville Ranch

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Kernville, CA

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,

Double Triangle Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Weldon, CA

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

Tam's Wilderness Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Tehachapi, CA

Hiking trails, wineries nearby, Two Lakes nearby 1mile - 1.5 miles away (boating, fishing) rare herbs on the land, game boards, ping pong tables, biking trails, hunting near by, Animal farms near by, Antique shops Old Town to Shopping, visit one of the oldest train railways depot stations, star gazing at night with the clear skies over Tehachapi. Outdoor game's available at check-in. Contact host. Cornhole, dart games, volleyball, board games, etc. with a held Driver License until returned.

Available this weekend

92%

(6)

Underworld Farms

15 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Kernville, CA

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

Double Triangle Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Weldon, CA

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

Wandering Star Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent15 acres · Weldon, CA

Learn more about this land:A large private dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental. 7 night maximum. Longer possible with discussion. 15 acres yours to enjoy. Pass through our gates straight into BrightStar Wilderness BLM. Ride your dirt bikes, ATV's, horses. Play your music, let your dogs run free... Great star gazing. Primitive firing range two minute walk away, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking. Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake .The Brightstar wilderness extends to Jawbone canyon.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.Verizon has good service Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away.(Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)

Kernville Ranch

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Kernville, CA

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,

Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Wofford Heights, CA

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

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Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

Castaic, California

Lakeside camping near Tehachapi with campfires guide

Overview

Tehachapi includes unique ecological regions from the Mojave Desert to the Central Valley and Sierra Nevadas. Hiking, camping, glamping, boating, fishing, and the chance to step into California’s past are some of the area’s best activities. For a more unique experience, try gliding, where the same mountain winds providing power to residents hold adventurers aloft above sprawling landscapes. Trek along the Pacific Coast Trail, or visit the spiral helix railway of the Tehachapi Loop. From beach camping to glampsites and cabin rentals, Tehachapi, California has accommodations for everyone.

Where to go

Brite Valley Aquatic Recreation Area

Set amongst lush greenery with a mountain backdrop, Brite Valley Aquatic Recreation Area and Brite Lake’s landscape provide hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, and camping amenities, from tent to car to RV (with hookups and dump stations). The aquatic area provides drinking and home-use water for residents of the area, so swimming or wading is prohibited. But boating and fishing (with proper permits) let campers enjoy a fish dinner at one of the fish-cleaning sites, campsite fire pits and grills, or picnic pavilions. Plan to visit during special events, like the parks department’s fishing derby or Astronomy Club star parties. Campers can pay a daily fee at the entrance or snag a yearly pass from the Tehachapi Valley Recreation & Park District.

Tehachapi Mountain Park

This 490 acre park in the mountains just south of Tehachapi features first come, first serve campsites, each with ample space for a single trailer, vehicle, or RV. The park’s open year-round, just be sure to bring snow chains for your tires. In summer, hike the Nuooah Nature Trail or marvel at high-altitude views from horseback. Group camping sites with cabin rentals make Tehachapi Mountain Park a welcoming wilderness experience. Campers should be sure to drop their fees in the honor-system backed fee box by the park’s entrance duck pond.

Fort Tejon State Historic Park

Fort Tejon State Historic Park is a living history park nestled in the lush meadow of the Grapevine Canyon featuring a unique opportunity to experience what life was like for soldiers and civilians on the very edge of the California frontier. The park offers tent camping and RV hookups, complete with picnic tables, barbecues, and fire pits. Though there are no designated hiking trails, campers can watch wildlife visiting Grapevine Creek, explore nearby Los Padres Forest, or discover the 220-mile-long surface rupture scar left over from one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded along the San Andreas faultline.

When to go

Tehachapi experiences all four seasons, with summers usually between 58 and 88°F, so June and July are ideal times to visit. Consider March, April, or May, with early spring temps averaging 52°F because many campgrounds, recreation areas, and state parks operate year-round, so campers will have access to everything in spring they would in summer, without the potential for packed campgrounds.