The best campgrounds near Wasco, California with climbing

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Wasco, California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 820 options to choose from, you're sure to find the ideal campsite that suits your accommodation preference and activity/terrain preference. Whether you're into boating, whitewater paddling, or just enjoying a peaceful campfire, there's something for everyone. And with top-rated campsites like Camp Arroyo Grande (508 reviews), Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews), and River Ridge Ranch -722 acres (348 reviews), you can trust that you'll have a fantastic camping experience. Plus, with amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average price of $49 per night. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

98% (767)

Top-rated campgrounds

Wake up early to catch the sunrise--lots of blankets are available to you.

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Wasco, California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 820 options to choose from, you're sure to find the ideal campsite that suits your accommodation preference and activity/terrain preference. Whether you're into boating, whitewater paddling, or just enjoying a peaceful campfire, there's something for everyone. And with top-rated campsites like Camp Arroyo Grande (508 reviews), Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews), and River Ridge Ranch -722 acres (348 reviews), you can trust that you'll have a fantastic camping experience. Plus, with amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average price of $49 per night. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

98% (767)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Blue Sky Center

94%

(747)

48mi from Wasco · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Cuyama, CA

1948- On January 1, 1948 a wildcatter named George Hadley, who had been oil prospecting in the valley for 10 years, made the first oil strike in the Cuyama Valley. Richfield Oil Company soon moved in and extracted nearly 300 million barrels of oil in just a few short years. To accommodate an exploding workforce in the early 1950s, the company built the town of New Cuyama, its infrastructure, public buildings, the Cuyama airstrip (L88) and all the industrial structures that are now home to Blue Sky. Richfield Oil Company, later merging with Atlantic Oil Company forming the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company (ARCO), created high-paying jobs, a safe and prosperous community, and developed schools, churches, and recreational areas for the employee-residents.1973- With dwindling production in the area and new discoveries in Alaska, Atlantic-Richfield Oil Company put the town of New Cuyama and its associated infrastructure up for sale. Word of an entire town for sale made its way to entrepreneur, Russell O’Quinn of the Foundation for Airborne Relief (FAR) and Mildred Dotson, a wealthy widow from Tulsa, Oklahoma. The two worked together to acquire the townsite and adjacent land. O’Quinn, an aviator, inventor, and test pilot, aspired to use the New Cuyama airstrip and facilities as a base for humanitarian relief and a non-profit trade school. Though not fully realized, FAR’s primary vision included utilizing converted military aircraft to airlift food and medical supplies to developing countries and global disaster areas. Dotson had loftier goals. Her plans included an 18-hole fly-in golf course, expansion of the Buckhorn Restaurant and Motel, and a 40- to 50-acre lake for amphibious landing and water sports. 1986- Another visionary, Harry Kislevitz, inventor of the popular design tool Colorforms® and founder of Future City/Villages International, sought to develop the site as a “City of Friendship,” an all-electric village of 5,000 earthen homes. The dwellings were to be designed by Nader Khalili, an Iranian-born architect who specialized in earthen structures, worked with NASA on prototypes for lunar homes and received an award from the United Nations for his work towards the development of low cost, sustainable structures for human shelter in impoverished and disaster prone environments. One 628-sq-ft Khalili prototype remains on the property today ("the Cantina"). Khalili went on to form the California Institute for Earth Art and Architecture, Cal-Earth, in Hesperia, CA.1993- Recognizing the transformative potential of clean, solar power and the attractiveness of a rural destination, entrepreneur Mike Nolan worked to develop the Solar Skypark and Big Sky Guest Ranch with Santa Barbara Architect, Barry Berkus. The Sky Park included plans for sixty-five fly-in residences on one-acre lots powered completely from clean, solar energy. The Big Sky Guest Ranch was intended to function as a clubhouse for Skypark residents complete with an equestrian center, a small subsistence farm, pool and plenty of enriching recreational activities. 2012- At the end of 2011, the Zannon Family Foundation made a long-term investment in acquiring the New Cuyama Airport property with the vision of rehabilitating the site to be a low-cost resource for programs and organizations working to advance sustainable living practices and technologies. Plans began soon after towards developing a framework and organization to develop the space and coordinate with prospective programs and institutions. In 2014 Blue Sky Sustainable Living Center ("Blue Sky Center") received 501(c)(3) not-for-profit status, endeavoring to reclaim this property for the public good. Today, Blue Sky Center provides unduplicated services and technical assistance to support small businesses and entrepreneurs as well as the local food system, with core work focused on community research and advocacy led by Cuyamans. Learn more on our website and consider supporting our community work with your donation or by hosting your next special event here!

2. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

99%

(563)

50mi from Wasco · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wofford Heights, CA

Private ADULT ONLY camping. With a central outdoor kitchen and dining area, group fire pit, and a bathroom with a composting toilet, sink and shower. Seasonal creek. Quiet and private. Stargazer and the Boulders have their own fire pit, and there's a communal fire pit too. We have a small cabin (The Playhouse) and 9 campsites. Each campsite will accommodate a medium size tent (10’x10’ max), except for The Boulders which will accommodate more. 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.

3. The River Haven House

100%

(5)

29mi from Wasco · 1 site · Lodging · 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.

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. Lost Hills Point of Rocks

100%

(1)

36mi from Wasco · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lost Hills, CA

This exceptional land has been used privately by our family for decades for camping, offroading, exploring, getting away from it all. And now we have made it availalbe to the public! This land is located in Western Kern County north of Hwy 46. You will enjoy exclusive use of over 400 acres of untouched land. One of the most unique features of this property is the sandstone rock formations. The formations have been shaped over the centuries by the wind and rain, resulting in the coolest places to explore, windblown arches, and shallow caves and hollows. The sandstone can be slick and there are cliffs on this property, so please be very careful, especially with children.

Public campgrounds near Wasco

100%

(44)

Oak Flat Lookout

37mi from Wasco · 1 site · in Sequoia National Forest

Alder Creek Campground

43mi from Wasco · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(12)

Leavis Flat Campground

43mi from Wasco · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Evans Flat Campground

44mi from Wasco · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(1)

White River Campground

45mi from Wasco · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(5)

Breckenridge Campground

45mi from Wasco · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Cedar Creek Campground

45mi from Wasco · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(8)

Hobo Campground

47mi from Wasco · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Sandy Flat Campground is located right along the Kern River. There is a beach with a great swimming area (you can see it on the lower left of the photo).

100%

(3)

Sandy Flat Campground

47mi from Wasco · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(11)

Frog Meadow Campground

48mi from Wasco · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Pioneer Point Campground

50mi from Wasco · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

Stories from the community

DL

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

I almost didn’t want to write this review as this place is so good. I want to keep it a secret. John and his wife were there to meet me as I pulled up and gave me a quick tour. Word cannot describe the beauty of this land. the place is kept immaculate all the amenities of the best campsites and more. They fit in all the comforts without spoiling any of the rustic beauty. I am definitely coming back. Thank you John.

Emily

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

This was my second time solo camping at Spirit Walk, and it was just as beautiful as the first. Tranquil, lovingly cared for, sacred space, with just enough thoughtful infrastructure to be supportive while not diminishing the feeling of wildness. There was enough fresh, cold water in the swimming hole to submerge my body - even in the fall, when many places are dry. The plants around were beautiful, and I had the place to myself besides my interspecies kin (including curious deer and bobcat). John, his partner, and lil puppy come to help you get oriented, and are cool and kind as well. Would recommend Spirit Walk to anyone looking for a peaceful way to commune with the land.

c

charline

September 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

Great location! Very peaceful and beautiful. Restroom was clean. Would recommend 100%

Rj

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

We enjoyed a quiet Labor Day weekend at Oak Tree campsite. Despite the holiday weekend, there were only a few other campers. It was lovely and calm. The common kitchen was well equipped—we cooked a few meals with food we brought. The creek was flowing just enough for a dip. Enjoyed the outdoor shower, too! We spent a nice day driving north of Kernville and doing some hiking and swimming along the river. All descriptions on Hipcamp were accurate regarding walking gear in from your car, close proximity of some sites to each other, etc. We look forward to returning soon!

Jenifer

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at your campsite. Being just steps away from the river was truly wonderful; I loved falling asleep to the sound of the water and stargazing each night. I even saw several shooting stars! The communal kitchen was incredibly convenient and well-equipped, and I appreciated being able to use the outdoor shower before I left. I also took a beautiful drive up to "Trail of 100 Giants," which was just over an hour away and mostly followed the river.

Patrick

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

John's campsite was well organized. You could tell he put a lot of work in. My site was Oaktree nestled under a large oak tree it provided plenty of shade. Access to the creek and wading pool.

Jack

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

✨ I highly recommend Spirit Walk campsite! It’s quiet and right beside the river—you can actually hear the stream as you fall asleep. 🌊 The best part? It has a hot shower and an outdoor kitchen, which makes camping super comfortable. Plus, it’s only 10 minutes from Kernville. I’ll definitely be coming back again! 🌲🔥

Alessandra

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

Nice camp site along a creek and only a 5 minute drive from Kern River! We had a nice time here and would definitely book again.

Ciara

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

The creek nearby this campsite is an awesome place to cool down in the heat. Amenities there keep you comfortable, and there are plenty of large bear boxes near the kitchen area to hold your foodstuffs.

Tory

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

The best campsite I have been to, the site is thoughtfully maintained and gorgeous, loved the creek area and fully stocked kitchen. There were some yellow jackets on site and the water pressure for the sink and bathroom was low some mornings. Overall, really enjoyed the space. I definitely would like to return at least once a year.

Tor

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

Sprit walk is a wonderful place. The creek is still running strong mid-august and the water is clean and pure. John has the communal areas well supplied and the bathrooms are clean. Location is great if you wanna stay around the town or go to more remote areas. We will be back!

Jerrome

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

The Playhouse was a beautiful place and so full of nature! The first morning we woke up to squirrels playing right outside of our window, later on we saw a Deer and her little baby walking right past the dining area! The nearby stream could be heard throughout the camp (it wasn't loud, it was very soothing) and there were a ton of birds! If what you are wanting is a bit of nature, this is the place to go! We loved every minute there!

Molly

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

A wonderful campsite. We were looking for a quiet weekend camping experience and this retreat was perfect! The communal kitchen was really well stocked and the outside shower was great.

S

Sandy

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

The campsite was very nice! Although I didn’t stay in the huts I loved it! We book a tent site and got there late. It was dark but we were able to set up our tent. The owner was very responsive and had really great hospitality. I can’t believe we were able to get so many accommodations. They had a fridge, coffee, laundry machine and more. Would come back again!

19. The Quonset. (Photo by Madison Kotack)

J

Jolene

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

Amazing trip! Great site with so much to explore! 10/10

Diandra

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

We booked this stay pretty last-minute and were so grateful to be confirmed the same day. From the moment we arrived, John made us feel at ease. He greeted us with a warm welcome, gave us a thoughtful walk-through, and reminded us to simply breathe and relax. He encouraged us to wander the grounds and settle in, and to our surprise, we had the entire place to ourselves. It truly felt like a magical escape — a perfect reset to detox from daily life and reconnect with nature. The communal kitchen was well-stocked with all the essentials, and it was such a gift to have both running water and rustic, natural touches woven throughout the property. The restroom and outdoor shower were clean and charming. John has clearly poured so much care into creating this peaceful sanctuary. Every detail invites you to slow down, listen, and be. We saw two deer during our stay and fell asleep each night to the soothing sound of water nearby. There were several spots to enjoy the creek, from gentle little waterfalls to serene swimming holes that felt like hidden gems. The only challenge was not being able to drive directly to the campsite, but John provided wagons to help with hauling things in and out. That made it totally manageable. And the location isn’t far from a super cute town if you want to explore a bit or grab a bite. All in all, this place is romantic, peaceful, and soul-nourishing. Highly recommend. We can’t wait to come back.

cassia

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

Amazing spot! So private and peaceful. It was exactly what I was looking for in every respect and superseded my expectations. Beautiful communal areas, swimming holes, and well appointed with bear boxes, sink, dishes, utensils, pots, and nice restroom facilities. LOVED the outdoor shower and felt so, so safe. LOVED the outdoor deck beneath a humongous oak with sprawling branches. Could have stayed in that spot and the shade it provided all day. A special, special spot. A wonderful spot to be filled with awe and wonder, bask in gratitude of our creator. Found two heart shaped rocks while walking in prayer. John is very selective with who he allows onto his property, but trust me, it is worth it! Enjoy this sacred gem!

Lara

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

My heart is overflowing with gratitude for John allowing my boyfriend and I to stay on his sacred land. I have never slept so well under the stars and there was SO much to explore! I will absolutely be back!

K

Kevin

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

as a solo camper i was able to have the place to myself, which was very relaxing once settled into camp. The Cantina was perfect for quick dinner prep so I left all my cooking and kitchen gear packed up. I enjoyed a beautiful sunset and had a very comfortable nights rest. I think Blue Sky camp would be fun for a large group of friends.

Guy

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

My girlfriend and I rented the Playhouse at Spirit Walk and loved it so much we were sad to leave. John has done an exceptional job of setting this beautiful property up to be a peaceful space to unwind and renew. Conveniently located, yet it feels like you are way out in a creekside retreat far from town, it could not have been better. Communication was exceptional, instructions were clear. For us, the outdoor shower option was one of the highlights. Cooking under the canopy of oaks in the shade when it was hot was another. Exploring the area, we saw several camp grounds etc and we felt so lucky that we had found John's Spirit Walk property. The playhouse is simply appointed and perfect. The upstairs loft bed with windows looking out to the woods at sunrise is something I will definitely be returning for. If you are considering booking the playhouse, Do it! It won't be your last time.