The best great views campgrounds near Tehachapi, California

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.

96% (698)

Top-rated campgrounds near Tehachapi

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.

96% (698)

Top-rated campgrounds near Tehachapi

1. A Unique Mountain Retreat

99%

(289)

5.2mi from Tehachapi · 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.

2. Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

96%

(309)

30mi from Tehachapi · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging

LOCATION INFO Enjoy a rustic, no-fuss stay on our 20-acre working farm just 15 miles south of Bakersfield, with easy freeway access. Campsites sit along the pond—perfect for catch-and-release fishing, paddle boarding, or kayaking. We have a small area with farm animals (pigs, goats, sheep, peacocks and chickens) for you to enjoy. Most guests are road-tripping, escaping LA, or stopping over en route to Yosemite, Sequoia, or Joshua Tree. Expect a desert climate: hot summers, cold winters. Each site includes a small table, potable water spigot, picnic table, and fire pit (bring your own wood). All sites are BYO tent or car-camping with the exception of our one Glamping Site which includes a queen bed. Some have vehicle height limits (noted in site names), and cannot accommodate pop-ups or truck campers. Amenities include one shared indoor toilet and an outdoor hot/cold shower. You may be greeted by our friendly, working farm dogs. We offer self check-in and you're welcome to arrive anytime after 1PM; checkout is 11AM. Please respect quiet hours after 10PM if arriving late. CAMP RULES No Pets – Our dogs protect the farm and see other animals as threats. You will be asked to leave with no refund if you bring a pet. Quiet Hours: 10 PM–7 AM – No exceptions. If we receive complaints about noise, you’ll be asked to leave immediately. 1 Tent + 1 Car per Site (Site 4 allows 2 tents/2 cars). If you need more tents, you will need to book multiple sites. No tents or canopies on the grass/lawn area. No fireworks or open flames outside of designated fire pits. Propane burners or grills are permitted. Do not feed the farm dogs—no treats or food, ever. At checkout: dispose of trash in the dumpster by Site 5, soak any hot coals, wipe down tables, and put back the kayaks and paddleboards. Shower use: Only farm-provided shampoo and soap are allowed. Fire pits must stay in place. Do not move them.

3. Lone Juniper Ranch

97%

(116)

33mi from Tehachapi · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

You will fall in love instantly Camels, Llama ,Guanaco, donkeys, hammock a firepit and grill in the back yard. Book a wood fired sauna (extra)A Perfect mountain cabin retreat next to Tejon Ranch!The private, 100 + acre, mountain-top experience offers a 360-degree view of beautiful Southern California scenery, Super Bloom, Ideal for star gazing and hiking, amazing sunrises/sunsets.This is a 4 seasons paradise!Situated only 8 minutes off Rt. 5, this retreat is quite accessible (4-wheel drive necessary during wintertime snows.

4. Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%

(26)

36mi from Tehachapi · 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!

5. Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

96%

(115)

47mi from Tehachapi · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:A vast expanse of oak trees, California Junipers and rugged, mountainous land running with jackrabbits, quail, and owls that is just 3 miles from Vazquez Rocks and the PCT, our ranch transports you. From the tent campsite, you look out for 20 miles and see nothing but nature across small mountains and canyons all the way to the peaks of Angeles National Forest in the distance. The campsite is a large flat area. For a trailer or RV it's a great place to park and the view is towards wide open spaces. With a tent or if you want more pure nature, you can drive out onto the property further towards the small ruin of the old homesteader's cabin or beyond. The property has a long-abandoned gold mine and circular arrastres where miners used mules to break up rocks. Nearby Acton has pick-your-own apples/pears/peaches at Bloom farms. We are at 3000 feet with strong sun during the day and cool mountains air at night. The camping is set away from structures, but if you want to stroll, closer to the ranch buildings, we have friendly small goats you can visit if interested and horses and a donkey to say hello to across the corral fence. 

6. The Hilltop Getaway

99%

(126)

47mi from Tehachapi · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to The Hilltop Getaway! One of the coziest glamping spots near the Alpine Butte, Palmdale with Joshua Tree landscape just an hour from LA. The amazing 360 view from the jumbo rocks mountains on valley with Joshua Trees will make your memories unforgettable.  We also have a great landscape for your spectacular photo shoot. If you’re looking for a place to hike, relax, refresh and recharge yourself, you found the place! While our site is private and secluded, it is close to most stores you might need. Palmdale is a 10-minute drive and has a Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Ross, restaurants, fast foods, banks, and more. Additionally, you can visit a lot of unique places just few minutes from us like Antelope Valley Indian Museum, Four Aces Movie Ranch, Movie Set Diner, Club Ed Movie Set, El Mirage Dry Lake, Kill Bill Church, Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, Joe Davies Heritage Airpark, Blackbird Airpark, Dry Town Water Park On our space you'll find 1. Bar/Kitchen area offers a four-burner gas grill with one side burner, kitchen table, sink with foot water pump, bar counter with four chairs on the bar deck; 2. Classic wood picnic table 3. Fire pit with wood chairs and bench for lounging 4. Hammock for relaxing and stargazing 5. Toilet/Shower cabin. Thetford Porta Potti flush toilet, sink with foot water pump, mirror, Eccotemp hot shower We provide towels and soap 6. Cowboy Pool 8ft Open seasonally May - Oct 7. The Geo Dome Tent 23ft (7M) is equipped with everything for a comfortable glamping experience Geo Dome: - Queen bed with memory-foam mattress and bedding - Two Convertable Tri-Fold Sofa Beds - Twin Tufted Back Convertible Sofa - Foldable Camping Cot - Hammock Chair Swing - Dining Set - Nightstands - Kitchen Island with kitchen utensils, pots, tableware - Portable Power Station EcoFlow River Mini for charging and power devices - Propane Portable Heater, indoor-safe (Propane gas is include) - Solar lights - Fresh towel-Fresh linen- Books games for entertainment - fire extinguisher, first aid kit, etc Please note - water in the tank is not drinkable and has a distinct taste Please plan for a “leave no trace” style camping and to take your trash with you upon check out

7. Underworld Farms

86%

(43)

40mi from Tehachapi · 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

Camper favorites near Tehachapi

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%

(26)

36mi from Tehachapi · 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!

Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

96%

(115)

47mi from Tehachapi · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:A vast expanse of oak trees, California Junipers and rugged, mountainous land running with jackrabbits, quail, and owls that is just 3 miles from Vazquez Rocks and the PCT, our ranch transports you. From the tent campsite, you look out for 20 miles and see nothing but nature across small mountains and canyons all the way to the peaks of Angeles National Forest in the distance. The campsite is a large flat area. For a trailer or RV it's a great place to park and the view is towards wide open spaces. With a tent or if you want more pure nature, you can drive out onto the property further towards the small ruin of the old homesteader's cabin or beyond. The property has a long-abandoned gold mine and circular arrastres where miners used mules to break up rocks. Nearby Acton has pick-your-own apples/pears/peaches at Bloom farms. We are at 3000 feet with strong sun during the day and cool mountains air at night. The camping is set away from structures, but if you want to stroll, closer to the ranch buildings, we have friendly small goats you can visit if interested and horses and a donkey to say hello to across the corral fence. 

The Hilltop Getaway

99%

(126)

47mi from Tehachapi · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to The Hilltop Getaway! One of the coziest glamping spots near the Alpine Butte, Palmdale with Joshua Tree landscape just an hour from LA. The amazing 360 view from the jumbo rocks mountains on valley with Joshua Trees will make your memories unforgettable.  We also have a great landscape for your spectacular photo shoot. If you’re looking for a place to hike, relax, refresh and recharge yourself, you found the place! While our site is private and secluded, it is close to most stores you might need. Palmdale is a 10-minute drive and has a Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Ross, restaurants, fast foods, banks, and more. Additionally, you can visit a lot of unique places just few minutes from us like Antelope Valley Indian Museum, Four Aces Movie Ranch, Movie Set Diner, Club Ed Movie Set, El Mirage Dry Lake, Kill Bill Church, Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, Joe Davies Heritage Airpark, Blackbird Airpark, Dry Town Water Park On our space you'll find 1. Bar/Kitchen area offers a four-burner gas grill with one side burner, kitchen table, sink with foot water pump, bar counter with four chairs on the bar deck; 2. Classic wood picnic table 3. Fire pit with wood chairs and bench for lounging 4. Hammock for relaxing and stargazing 5. Toilet/Shower cabin. Thetford Porta Potti flush toilet, sink with foot water pump, mirror, Eccotemp hot shower We provide towels and soap 6. Cowboy Pool 8ft Open seasonally May - Oct 7. The Geo Dome Tent 23ft (7M) is equipped with everything for a comfortable glamping experience Geo Dome: - Queen bed with memory-foam mattress and bedding - Two Convertable Tri-Fold Sofa Beds - Twin Tufted Back Convertible Sofa - Foldable Camping Cot - Hammock Chair Swing - Dining Set - Nightstands - Kitchen Island with kitchen utensils, pots, tableware - Portable Power Station EcoFlow River Mini for charging and power devices - Propane Portable Heater, indoor-safe (Propane gas is include) - Solar lights - Fresh towel-Fresh linen- Books games for entertainment - fire extinguisher, first aid kit, etc Please note - water in the tank is not drinkable and has a distinct taste Please plan for a “leave no trace” style camping and to take your trash with you upon check out

Underworld Farms

86%

(43)

40mi from Tehachapi · 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

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

3 weeks ago

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

This cabin, location & host, John, all were truly such a treat! John is an absolutely wonderful human. He went above and beyond as a host to ensure we got in, settled and enjoyed ourselves. It’s clear the love and care he’s put into this property and for his guests. The cabin was comfortable, beautifully designed & the morning views were stunning. Thank you for having us!

M

Matt

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lone Juniper Ranch

This was our second stay and it doesn't disappoint. The hosts are great - responsive, kind and helpful. We'll be back.

N

Nikki

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

Loved loved loved my stay here! I would call it gamping - not quite luxury glamping but definitely above camping. There are basic amenities provided though bringing your own gear might be helpful. Definitely coming back with my friends!

L

Lela

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lone Juniper Ranch

We loved the cabin and quiet secluded view. a family of 2 adults and 3 kids fit and it was well equipped in the kitchen, clean, warm and so fun to visit the animals!

S

Susan

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

Autonomy Farms was such an amazing little place to stay. We stopped for a one night pitstop. Our hostess Meredith was super responsive and had clear communication. In one evening we got to do a little catch and release fishing (caught Bass and Bluegill) hung out with the farm puppies, and got to visit farm animals.

Prajwal

November 2025

1 night at Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

Diamond Acre Camp is one of those rare places that feels calm the moment you arrive. The site is spacious, clean, and perfectly positioned for wide-open night skies. The star-gazing here is unreal — the kind of view that makes you forget about everything else. The atmosphere is quiet, peaceful, and beautifully raw. My tent lit up under the stars felt straight out of a movie.

L

Lauren

November 2025

With kids

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

My two boys and I stayed in the studio cabin. We had to rearrange our travel dates due to the weather. John couldn’t have been more flexible and accommodating in making sure our trip could still happen a few days later. The site had a beautiful view, a little kitchenette, shower and wood stove that kept us warm. We had great stargazing and the gas burning stove was perfect for chilly nights. John was the most welcoming host and made us feel very comfortable. We also enjoyed the nature trail on the site! Overall, a lovely place I would recommend if you want to slow down and enjoy some peace and quiet.

selby

November 2025

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

Magic, authentic, star-filled. What a magnificent spot! Wish we could have stayed longer. Be sure to bring blankets-and maybe an extra foam topper. Truly memorable!

m

mike

November 2025

21 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

Great quiet spot, no one bothered us. Clean and easy to access. Beautiful. Took my daughter to Vasquez rocks and then camped here in our camper van. Quick and easy overnight from LA.

Will

November 2025

With kids

1 night at Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

Absolutely loved Diamond Acres, in particular the Stargazing Tent. The views were gorgeous (we saw the Milky Way!) and the site itself was set up great. Even though it was 38 degrees F overnight, we were cozy. Just wonderful.

This is Pull Through encampment 4 where you can see the private firepit you will be able to use when camping here.

Chris

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Underworld Farms

Easy to find and a great host. Would definitely use again.

Chris

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Underworld Farms

Easy directions and a great spot close to Kernville.

M

Meg

November 2025

17 ft campervan

1 night at Lone Juniper Ranch

Nice guy. Great location. Would return without a doubt

Heidi

November 2025

Tent

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

We loved tent camping on John’s property. It was beautiful and peaceful. We look forward to staying again.

This is your personal firepit when staying in encampment 5.

J

Joshua

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Underworld Farms

Great place to camp at. Wanted to go somewhere calm for my first solo trip and it did not disappoint. The views are amazing you have cell reception and are so close to amazing hikes and places to see. It’s definitely more of an RV or sleep in your car kind of spot so if you are in a tent I would probably bring a sleeping pad. Again great place loved my time there!

N

Nikhil

November 2025

Weekend Trip to A Unique Mountain Retreat

We had a wonderful short stay at John’s cabin. He has made everything so thoughtfully and we felt very comfortable. The location was easy to find and the views are unbeatable! We will surely be back. John has a huge property and a trail along the boundary. Also, the silence at the place was exactly what we were looking for.

B

Blaine

October 2025

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

Greta place! What the owner has done with the entire project is quaint, romantic, and unique- all making for an amazing stay. Look no farther than here and you won’t regret it!

P

Paul

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

This was a wonderful stay. Beautiful site. Hot outdoor showers for a small fee (what a treat in that setting!) clean toilets plus hot and cold running water close by. A nice little walking trail (about a mile) right there. And John was a great host, very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend this site!

E

Erin

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

Meredith's Land is a magical place tucked away behind closed gates. I felt immediately transported as I drove down the long, dark road and was greeted by Cleo, the farm dog, and the sounds of cows mooing, ducks quacking, and birds and goats singing. If you are looking for a place to connect with the farm animals, not too far from the city sounds, Meredith's land is the perfect spot for a fun family getaway.

E

Erin

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

My daughter just turned 17. Instead of a party she said, “I want to go camping with my friends and see the stars.” Which is awesome accept that the last time she went camping she was ten and her Dad and I did all of the heavy lifting and while I am sure she and her friends could have learned the hard way how to camp, since it was her birthday i wanted it to be special and easy. I searched on HipCamp and found, “Camping by the pond,” and, “Autonomous Farms.” I thought, “Oh. This is perfect.” I arrived before the girls and was greeted by the camp host, a white furry beautiful goddess named, Cleo, aka a Dog. I was alone but surrounded by goats, ducks, cows, chickens, peacocks, the sound of toads and other farm animals and Cleo hung by me as I unpacked the Wagoneer and set up the teepee, tent, sunshade, and birthday signs. I felt safe with Cleo as every time a car drive by, her ears shot up, her eyes went laser beam and her tail stood up. I knew, no matter what comes, Cleo is going to guard us. When my girls arrived, my new BF and I greeted them. On the first night, Cleo slept outside our tents and on day 2 she slept with the girls.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Tehachapi guide

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.