Kennedy Meadows Campground

For Californians dreaming of a mountain escape, Kennedy Meadows Campground offers a truly unique and refreshing experience in the heart of the Southern Sierra Nevada. This beloved camping spot provides a gateway to stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a chance to truly disconnect. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to reel in a prized Kern River golden trout, a seasoned hiker looking to tackle a section of the Pacific Crest Trail, or simply someone yearning for quiet nights under a sky full of stars, Kennedy Meadows Campground delivers. It’s a place where the majestic scenery and the tranquil flow of the Kern River invite you to slow down and savor the essence of California's high country.

Kennedy Meadows Campground is known for its spacious sites and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a more natural and less crowded camping environment. While it offers essential amenities, its charm lies in its connection to the wild, promising a genuine wilderness experience that is still conveniently accessible for local Californians looking for their next outdoor adventure.

Kennedy Meadows Campground is conveniently located at Kennedy Meadows Rd, Pearsonville, CA 93527, USA. Situated in the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, it's a prominent landmark for outdoor enthusiasts and a notable stop for Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikers. The campground sits within the Inyo National Forest, a vast expanse of protected wilderness offering diverse landscapes from desert to alpine peaks.

Accessing Kennedy Meadows Campground is relatively straightforward. From Highway 395, a major artery on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada, you'll exit near Pearsonville and head west on Nine Mile Canyon Road. This road, which is paved for a significant portion, leads directly to the Kennedy Meadows area. While the final stretch to the campground may involve unpaved roads, the route is generally well-marked with signage, making it easy to navigate. It's recommended to check road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or after significant weather events, as snow can impact accessibility, leading to seasonal closures typically from late November to late April/early May.

The campground’s elevation, around 5,800 feet, provides a pleasant escape from the summer heat of lower elevations. Its setting amidst a forest of juniper and pinyon trees, along with the nearby South Fork of the Kern River, creates a picturesque and refreshing environment. For many Californians, particularly those from Southern or Central California, Kennedy Meadows is a well-regarded destination that offers a profound sense of remoteness without being overly difficult to reach.

Kennedy Meadows Campground provides a range of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable, albeit rustic, camping experience. While it doesn't boast all the amenities of a resort, it offers what campers truly need to enjoy the wilderness.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 37 to 38 well-spaced campsites. These sites are capable of accommodating both tents and RVs, with many suitable for vehicles up to 30 feet in length. Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets are available for campers. While generally maintained, it's always prudent for visitors to be prepared with their own hand sanitizer or personal hygiene supplies. It is important to note that during the off-season, particularly in winter, these facilities may be closed, requiring campers to practice strict Leave No Trace principles.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to be aware that Kennedy Meadows Campground does not typically offer potable drinking water. Visitors must bring their entire water supply for their stay or have a reliable method for filtering and treating natural water sources from the Kern River or nearby creeks.
• No Bear Storage Lockers: As noted by a customer review, there are no bear storage lockers at the campsite. Given that this is bear country, campers must bring their own bear-proof containers or use bear-safe storage practices, such as properly storing food in vehicles or hanging it from trees, to protect both their supplies and local wildlife.
• No Trash Service in Off-Season: While seasonal trash containers may be available during peak periods, visitors, especially those camping in the mid-December timeframe or other off-peak periods, should be prepared to pack out all of their trash. The "Pack It In, Pack It Out" principle is essential for maintaining the pristine environment of this wilderness area.
• First-Come, First-Served: Kennedy Meadows Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during popular weekends or holidays, to secure a campsite.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and attended to at all times, ensuring a harmonious environment for all campers and wildlife.

Kennedy Meadows Campground is celebrated for its unique features and the abundance of recreational opportunities it offers, truly capturing the spirit of a California high country adventure.

• Proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): A significant highlight is its direct access to the PCT. The trail runs right next to the campsite, making it an essential and well-known resupply point and rest stop for thru-hikers. For day hikers or section hikers, it offers convenient entry to explore segments of this iconic long-distance trail.
• Kern River Fishing: The South Fork of the Kern River flows nearby, providing excellent opportunities for fishing. The river is known for its trout, including the elusive Kern River golden trout. While catching them can be challenging for novices, patience and persistence can lead to a rewarding catch. Both bait fishing (PowerBait, worms) and fly fishing are popular. The river is stocked with hatchery trout during the high season, and wild trout populations thrive in more remote areas.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution and its high elevation, Kennedy Meadows offers spectacular stargazing opportunities. As one reviewer noted, the nights are "very quiet and dark," allowing for incredibly clear views of the Milky Way and countless stars, an unforgettable experience for any camper.
• Hiking and Exploring: Beyond the PCT, the surrounding Inyo National Forest and Sequoia National Forest areas boast a myriad of hiking trails. From leisurely strolls along the river to more challenging ascents into the mountains, there are options for all fitness levels. The diverse terrain includes forested areas, open meadows, and granite formations.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural habitat supports a variety of wildlife. Campers might spot deer, various bird species, and other forest animals. Awareness of bears is crucial, reinforcing the need for proper food storage.
• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Customer reviews frequently highlight the campground's quiet and dark nights, along with well-spaced campsites, contributing to a sense of peace and seclusion often sought by nature lovers.
• Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trails: For those interested in motorized recreation, the broader Kennedy Meadows area offers extensive trails for dirt bikes, ATVs, and 4x4 vehicles, though campers should be mindful of designated trails and regulations to minimize impact on the environment.

For current information regarding Kennedy Meadows Campground, including seasonal openings, fire restrictions, and any specific alerts, the best points of contact are through the managing forest service office.

Address: Kennedy Meadows Rd, Pearsonville, CA 93527, USA

Phone: (760) 873-2400

Mobile Phone: +1 760-873-2400

These numbers will typically connect you to the local ranger district responsible for the Inyo National Forest area where the campground is located. It is always advisable to call ahead, especially if you are planning a trip during the off-season or if weather conditions might impact road access or campground services.

Kennedy Meadows Campground is an exceptional choice for Californians seeking a genuine, accessible, and enriching outdoor experience. Its location in the Southern Sierra Nevada makes it a relatively manageable drive for many residents across the state, offering a convenient escape into the mountains without the need for extensive travel.

For local Californians, Kennedy Meadows serves as a quintessential wilderness retreat. The emphasis on self-sufficiency, with amenities designed to support a natural camping style, encourages a deeper connection to the environment. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, leaving behind the digital distractions for the sounds of the river and the quiet of the forest. The wide spacing of the campsites ensures a sense of privacy, allowing families and individuals to enjoy their time without feeling overcrowded.

The myriad of activities available—from the rewarding challenge of trout fishing in the Kern River to the extensive network of hiking trails, including direct access to the iconic PCT—caters to a diverse range of outdoor interests. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker, a casual day hiker, or simply looking for a serene spot to read by the water, Kennedy Meadows offers ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The clear, dark night skies are a particular draw for stargazers, providing a celestial show rarely seen in more populated areas.

Furthermore, its dog-friendly policy means that beloved canine companions can join in the adventure, making it a perfect spot for the whole family. While visitors should be prepared for basic facilities and seasonal closures of some services (like trash and bathrooms in the off-season), this only adds to the authentic wilderness appeal, fostering a strong "Leave No Trace" ethic among campers. Kennedy Meadows Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation for Californians to explore and appreciate the rugged, pristine beauty of their own backyard, creating lasting memories amidst one of the state's most treasured natural landscapes.

Kennedy Meadows Campground

Kennedy Meadows Rd, Pearsonville, CA 93527, USA