Headquarters Campground

Welcome to Headquarters Campground, a beloved outdoor retreat nestled along the picturesque Kern River, just a short drive from the charming town of Kernville, California. For locals seeking an escape into nature without venturing too far from home, Headquarters Campground offers an ideal blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and exciting recreational opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned camper, an avid angler, or simply looking for a peaceful riverside getaway, this campground provides a fantastic setting for creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Headquarters Campground is situated within the magnificent Sequoia National Forest, a region renowned for its towering trees, diverse wildlife, and stunning mountain landscapes. This prime location places you at the heart of California's outdoor playground, offering a perfect base for exploring the rich natural heritage of the southern Sierra Nevada. The campground's welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained facilities make it a popular choice for both weekend warriors and those planning longer excursions into the wilderness.

Headquarters Campground is conveniently located at Sm99, Kernville, CA 93238, USA. It lies approximately six miles north of the quaint town of Kernville, directly along the banks of the Upper Kern River. The drive to the campground is easily navigable, with paved access roads leading right to your campsite. For those traveling from Southern California, the campground is accessible via Highway 178 East from Bakersfield to Lake Isabella, and then via Highway 155 around the west side of the lake to Kernville, followed by a short journey north on Sierra Way (Mountain 99). This straightforward access makes it an excellent choice for a quick weekend escape or an extended vacation for residents across California, particularly those in the central and southern parts of the state. While cell service can be spotty in some areas, the proximity to Kernville means that necessities and modern conveniences are never too far away.

• Standard tent sites: Numerous well-defined sites suitable for traditional tent camping.
• RV and trailer sites: Accommodating RVs and trailers up to 30 feet in length, with paved parking pads. Please note there are no hookups available.
• Yurt accommodations: Select sites offer yurts, providing a comfortable and unique camping experience with a roof over your head, an excellent option for those new to camping or looking for added convenience.
• Picnic tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Campfire rings with grates: Perfect for enjoying campfires and cooking your meals outdoors (fire permits are required and fire restrictions may apply).
• Vault toilets: Clean and regularly maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, with some visitors noting their surprising cleanliness for this type of facility.
• Drinking water: Potable water is available at various points within the campground.
• Bear-resistant food storage boxes: Provided at each site to ensure the safety of your food and local wildlife.
• Trash collection: Designated areas for waste disposal help maintain the cleanliness of the campground.

• Riverside location: Many campsites are situated directly along the Kern River, offering stunning water views and the soothing sound of the flowing river. Customer reviews frequently highlight the excellent water level for swimming and floating, particularly on the south end where currents are milder.
• Proximity to Kern River: The river is a major draw, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and rafting. It's a fantastic spot for cooling off during warmer months, though strong currents can be present in some areas, making caution advisable.
• Abundant recreational activities: Beyond river activities, the surrounding Sequoia National Forest offers extensive hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail is just north of Kernville.
• Spacious campsites: Visitors often comment on the generous size of the campsites, providing ample room for tents, vehicles, and personal space.
• Friendly and attentive camp hosts: Reviews consistently praise the helpfulness, knowledge, and dedication of the camp hosts, who ensure the campground is well-maintained and visitors feel welcomed and safe.
• Pet-friendly: The campground welcomes dogs, allowing you to bring your furry companions on your outdoor adventure.
• Year-round operation: Headquarters Campground is open all year, allowing for diverse experiences across different seasons, from summer water play to cooler, quieter off-season visits.
• Close to Kernville amenities: Despite its natural setting, the campground is a short drive from Kernville, which offers grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and other essential services.

Address: Sm99, Kernville, CA 93238, USA

For specific information and reservations, it is recommended to contact the Kern River Ranger District directly or visit the Recreation.gov website.

Kern River Ranger District - Kernville Office:

Address: 11380 Kernville Road, Kernville, CA 93238

Phone: (760) 376-3781 (for recreation information) or (559) 745-4209 (ExplorUS concessionaire)

Reservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

For California residents, Headquarters Campground offers an exceptional opportunity to connect with nature without the need for extensive travel. Its strategic location in the Kern River Valley, within the awe-inspiring Sequoia National Forest, provides a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Imagine spending your days swimming or floating in the refreshing Kern River, casting a line for local fish, or embarking on a scenic hike through the surrounding forest trails. Evenings can be spent under a blanket of stars, gathered around a crackling campfire, sharing stories and making s'mores.

The positive feedback from past visitors consistently highlights the cleanliness of the facilities, the spaciousness of the sites, and the welcoming presence of the camp hosts. While vault toilets are a common feature of many campgrounds, those at Headquarters are frequently noted for being exceptionally well-maintained. The option of staying in a yurt adds a layer of comfort for those who prefer a less rustic experience, making it accessible to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, the proximity to Kernville means that if you forget any essentials or simply fancy a meal out, a quick drive will take you to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. This blend of remote natural beauty with convenient access to town resources makes Headquarters Campground a practical and highly enjoyable destination for California locals looking for an enriching outdoor experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality time with loved ones, Headquarters Campground stands out as a prime choice for your next California camping adventure.

Headquarters Campground

Sm99, Kernville, CA 93238, USA