Limestone Campground

For Californians drawn to the rugged beauty of the Southern Sierra Nevada and the allure of a genuine outdoor escape, Limestone Campground near Kernville offers a unique and authentic camping experience. Tucked away along the banks of the Wild and Scenic Kern River within the vast Sequoia National Forest, this small and often tranquil campground provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and essential amenities. If you’re a local seeking to disconnect from the hustle, enjoy world-class whitewater rafting or fishing, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Limestone Campground is an excellent choice. It’s a place where the sounds of the river and the quiet of the forest create an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable adventures, whether you’re traveling with an RV, a tent, or simply looking for a quiet spot to refresh.

Limestone Campground stands out for its serene atmosphere and convenient access to the legendary Kern River, a draw for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. While it might not boast all the frills of a luxury resort, its well-maintained basic facilities, surprising comforts like hot showers, and often uncrowded nature make it a beloved spot for those who appreciate genuine outdoor living and a friendly, unassuming environment.

Limestone Campground is located at Kernville, CA 93238, USA, specifically nestled within the Sequoia National Forest along the Upper Kern River. It sits at an elevation of approximately 3,500 to 3,800 feet, providing a pleasant climate during its open season and a dramatic setting amidst oak and gray pine trees, characteristic of the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Access to Limestone Campground is straightforward, typically via Mountain 99 (Sierra Way) heading north from Kernville. The road leading to the campground is paved, making it accessible for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers. Kernville, a charming mountain town, serves as a convenient gateway, offering shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations for any last-minute supplies needed before heading to the campground. The campground is approximately 16 to 19 miles north of Kernville, ensuring a quick and scenic drive to your destination.

Due to its elevation and location within a national forest, Limestone Campground operates seasonally, generally from late March or April through late October. It is crucial for local Californians planning a visit to check the current operational dates and any road conditions or alerts with the Sequoia National Forest or through Recreation.gov, as winter snows can close access roads. Its blend of easy access from Kernville and its position on the Wild and Scenic Kern River makes it a favored spot for those looking for a relatively convenient yet immersive wilderness experience.

Limestone Campground, while offering a rustic experience, provides a surprisingly comfortable array of services, catering to both tent campers and RVs, as highlighted by recent visitors.

• Campsites: The campground offers about 22-31 family units. Sites vary in size; some are described as "small," while others are "pretty good" and "very level," particularly site #8 which comfortably fit a 38-foot camper with a ramp/porch and an additional 20-foot tow vehicle. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate.
• Electricity Hookups: A significant convenience for RV campers, some sites (specifically sites 1-11, as per a review) are equipped with 50/30/20-amp electric hookups. This is a valuable amenity for powering RVs and other electronic devices.
• Water at Sites (Limited): A key point from reviews is "no water spigots" or "no running water at Limestone Campground." However, one recent review explicitly states "Water at sites 1-11," suggesting a recent update or a distinction between general potable water sources and water at specific, hookup-equipped sites. It's best to confirm this directly with the campground or come prepared with your own water supply or a means to filter river water. Local sources like McNally's Restaurant and Bar, 4 miles down the road, were historically a place to fill up water jugs.
• Dump Station: The campground boasts a "really nice" dump station on a "large concrete pad," a crucial facility for RV campers, enabling convenient waste disposal.
• Restrooms with Hot Showers: While described as "bathroom and showers are on the rear of the main building," and needing "a good cleaning from the dead bugs," the critical highlight is that the "water was hot and plentiful." The showers are compared to a "gym setup with a long bench in the dressing area," indicating functional, albeit basic, facilities for personal hygiene. These are likely flush toilets, given the presence of showers.
• Pool (Seasonal): A reviewer noted, "Pool is not open yet" during their May 2025 stay, indicating that there is a pool facility at the campground that operates seasonally, likely during peak summer months. This is a significant amenity for a national forest campground.
• Campground Management: Described as "Unattended campground owned by Limestone Ministries," suggesting a unique management structure that contributes to its quiet, community-oriented feel.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Visitors consistently note the campground's peaceful nature, with only "a little road noise or distant train" and often being "the only ones here" during the off-season, contributing to a truly tranquil experience.
• Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly stated in reviews, national forest campgrounds typically allow pets on leash. Given the remote setting, it's generally pet-friendly.

Limestone Campground's appeal lies in its rugged setting and the wealth of outdoor activities available in the surrounding Kern River Valley, making it a prime spot for adventurous Californians.

• Direct Access to Wild & Scenic Kern River: The campground is situated along the Upper Kern River, a designated Wild and Scenic River. Some sites are "nearest the river," offering easy access for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the sounds of the flowing water.
• Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking: The Kern River is world-renowned for its whitewater rafting and kayaking. Limestone Campground is ideally positioned for rafters, with a "river rafting put-in near the campground" and various sections of Class II-V rapids accessible nearby. Many local outfitters offer guided trips.
• Excellent Fishing: The Kern River is a prime fishing destination, especially for trout. Anglers can enjoy fly fishing or traditional angling in the clear waters of the river directly from or near the campground.
• Hiking and Mountain Biking: The surrounding Sequoia National Forest offers numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, ranging from easy riverside strolls to more challenging mountain treks. The Kernville area is known for trails like Just Outstanding and the Cannell Trail.
• Proximity to Giant Sequoias: The campground is approximately 40 miles south of a "large stand of giant Sequoia Trees" known as "The Trail of a Hundred Giants." This accessible paved walkway provides an intimate view of these ancient, massive trees, offering an awe-inspiring natural wonder within a reasonable drive.
• Lake Isabella Access: Just about 5 miles away, Lake Isabella provides additional water sports opportunities, including boating, waterskiing, and larger-scale fishing, complementing the river activities.
• Quiet and Remote Feel: Despite offering amenities like electricity and showers, the campground maintains a tranquil and remote atmosphere. Reviews indicate that it's often not crowded, especially in the early season or during weekdays, allowing for a truly peaceful escape.
• Stargazing: With limited light pollution in this forest setting, Limestone Campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, allowing campers to marvel at the clear night sky.
• Views and Shade: While some sites can be "quite exposed to the sun," many offer "some shade" from the oak and pine trees. Sites "above the river, up on a hill," provide an "amazing perspective looking down on the river."
• Proximity to Kernville: The quaint town of Kernville is a short drive away, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, gas stations, and a nice park along the Kern River, providing convenient access to supplies and local charm.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Limestone Campground, including current conditions, availability, and specific amenities, it is best to contact the managing authorities or the local ranger district.

Address: Kernville, CA 93238, USA

Phone: (760) 376-3781 (This number is typically for the Kern River Ranger District of the Sequoia National Forest, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 760-376-3781 (This is likely the same contact number.)

For reservations, Limestone Campground can be reserved through the Recreation.gov system:

Recreation.gov Website: www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/123440

It is highly recommended for local Californians planning a visit to call the Kern River Ranger District or check Recreation.gov. This is crucial for confirming operational dates (March/April to October), site availability, current fire restrictions, and any important alerts regarding road conditions or river safety. Given that some amenities like the pool are seasonal, and water availability might vary by site, direct confirmation will ensure a well-prepared and enjoyable trip.

Limestone Campground offers a compelling and highly suitable outdoor experience for Californians, particularly those residing within a reasonable driving distance of the Kern River Valley. Its unique blend of rustic national forest camping with surprising comforts and unparalleled access to the Kern River makes it an ideal destination for a variety of local adventurers.

For Californians seeking an authentic river experience, Limestone Campground is perfectly positioned. Its location directly on the Wild and Scenic Kern River provides immediate access for fishing, enjoying the river's serene moments, or embarking on thrilling whitewater rafting and kayaking trips. This makes it a prime spot for thrill-seekers and anglers alike, leveraging one of California's premier river destinations right at their doorstep.

Despite being described as an "unattended campground owned by Limestone Ministries," the reviews highlight thoughtful amenities that significantly enhance comfort. The presence of electric hookups at certain sites, a "really nice" dump station, and especially "hot and plentiful" showers, offer a level of convenience not always found in similarly remote settings. This balance allows local RVers and tent campers to enjoy a wilderness feel without completely sacrificing modern comforts, making it approachable for those who might be new to more rugged camping.

The overall quiet atmosphere, even with "a little road noise or distant train," coupled with the often-uncrowded nature (especially during the off-season or weekdays), provides a genuine sense of escape and solitude that many Californians seek. It's a budget-friendly option too, offering great value for its prime location and amenities. Furthermore, its proximity to the charming town of Kernville for supplies and attractions, and the awe-inspiring Trail of a Hundred Giants, means there's always "fun stuff nearby" to enrich the camping experience. Limestone Campground truly offers a well-rounded and deeply satisfying outdoor adventure for any Californian looking to explore the natural wonders of their state.

Limestone Campground

Kernville, CA 93238, USA