Upper Springhill Campground

For Californians who cherish the raw beauty of the High Sierra and the freedom of dispersed camping, Upper Springhill Campground near Kernville, CA, stands as a truly beloved destination. Situated along the iconic Kern River, this site has become a go-to for many, drawing visitors back year after year to create lasting memories amidst stunning natural surroundings. It offers a rustic, no-cost camping experience that appeals to those seeking an authentic connection with California’s great outdoors.

Upper Springhill Campground, while providing a free and accessible camping option, truly excels in its natural setting. The area provides ample space for various camping setups, from traditional tents to RVs, allowing visitors to find their ideal spot for relaxation and recreation. The proximity to the Kern River is a major draw, offering opportunities for riverside activities and the soothing sounds of flowing water. It’s a place where families can gather, friends can reconnect, and individuals can simply unwind and appreciate the vastness of nature.

The enduring popularity of Upper Springhill is evident in the enthusiastic testimonials from long-time campers, some of whom have been coming for decades. This loyalty speaks volumes about the cherished memories and consistent appeal of the location. While challenges like occasional noise from other campers can arise in free, dispersed areas, the fundamental beauty, spaciousness, and the freedom to experience nature on your own terms make Upper Springhill Campground an undeniable gem for Californians seeking an unfiltered outdoor adventure.

Upper Springhill Campground is located in Kernville, CA 93238, USA. This places it directly within the scenic and adventurous Kern River Valley, nestled within the broader expanse of the Sequoia National Forest in California's southern Sierra Nevada. Kernville is well-known as a hub for outdoor activities, particularly whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing on the Kern River, as well as hiking and exploring the surrounding mountains. For Californians, reaching this campground typically involves a picturesque drive along Highway 178 or other state routes that lead into the Kern River corridor, offering stunning views as you approach the destination.

Accessibility to Upper Springhill Campground is generally good, allowing a wide range of vehicles, including RVs, to access the area. Being a dispersed camping area, it means fewer formalized paved roads within the campground itself, but the main access roads leading to it are usually well-maintained. Its location directly along the Kern River provides easy access to the water for various recreational activities. As with many high-country and forest camping areas in California, the operating season is largely dependent on weather conditions and snowpack. While dispersed camping areas like Upper Springhill often remain open year-round, specific site conditions or access roads might be impacted by heavy snow in winter or post-storm conditions at any time. It is always prudent for visitors to check with the local Kern River Ranger District for the most current information regarding road accessibility, any temporary closures, or advisories before planning their trip. The campground's proximity to Kernville (just a few miles north) also offers convenient access to town amenities like gas, groceries, and restaurants.

Upper Springhill Campground, being a free, dispersed camping area, offers a more basic set of services focused on providing essential facilities while allowing for a raw, natural camping experience.

• Free Camping: The most notable service is that it offers free camping, making it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly option for families and individuals.
• Spacious Campsites: The area provides ample space for various camping setups, accommodating everything from small tents to larger RVs. While not designated sites, there is generally enough room to spread out.
• Outhouses/Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of outhouses or vault toilets are typically available within the general camping area, providing essential sanitation.
• River Access: Campers benefit from direct and easy access to the Kern River, allowing for immediate engagement in water-based activities or simply enjoying the riverside environment.
• Natural Shade: The campground is naturally shaded by trees, providing relief from the sun during the warmer months, enhancing comfort for campers.
• No Hookups: As a dispersed camping area, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. Campers need to be self-sufficient regarding these amenities.
• No Potable Water: It's important to note that potable water is generally not available on-site, requiring campers to bring their own drinking water or have the means to filter/treat natural water sources.
• No Trash Collection: Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and waste.

Upper Springhill Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that contribute to its enduring popularity and provide a rich outdoor experience.

• Prime Kern River Location: Its setting directly "along the Kern River" is a major asset, offering beautiful river views, soothing sounds, and direct access for activities like fishing, swimming, and simply relaxing by the water.
• Free Camping: The most significant highlight is that it provides "FREE CAMPING." This makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious Californians seeking outdoor adventure.
• Generous Space and Shade: The campground offers "Plenty of space and shade," allowing for comfortable setups and a relaxed atmosphere even during popular times. This helps mitigate the feeling of overcrowding.
• Versatility for All Campers: It's suitable for a wide range of camping styles, from "small tents to 32-ft motorhomes," making it accessible to diverse groups of campers.
• Long-Standing Popularity: The fact that visitors "camp here at least 3 times a year" and have been coming for "about 20 years now" speaks volumes about the positive experiences and strong memories created here.
• Abundant Outdoor Activities: The Kern River area is a hotspot for recreation, offering opportunities for fishing, hiking, and exploring the surrounding Sequoia National Forest. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are also popular nearby.
• Natural Immersion: The dispersed nature of the campground encourages a deep immersion in nature, away from the structured environment of developed campgrounds.
• Ideal for Family Memories: The emphasis on creating "so many memories" highlights its suitability as a family-friendly destination where traditions can be built.

For inquiries and the most current information regarding Upper Springhill Campground, including specific conditions, access, and any regulations concerning dispersed camping, you should contact the managing forest service directly.

Address: Kernville, CA 93238, USA

Phone: (760) 376-3781

Mobile Phone: +1 760-376-3781

These phone numbers likely connect to the Kern River Ranger District of the Sequoia National Forest, which oversees the Upper Springhill Dispersed Area. Before your visit, it is highly recommended to call them to get up-to-date information on:

• Current road conditions and any access advisories, especially after significant weather events.
• Any active fire restrictions or bans, which are common in California's national forests, particularly during dry seasons.
• Information on river levels and safety, as the Kern River can have strong currents.
• Any specific rules for dispersed camping in the area, such as proper waste disposal, quiet hours, and respecting fellow campers' space.

Being proactive helps ensure a safe, responsible, and enjoyable camping trip at this cherished location.

Upper Springhill Campground stands as an exceptionally appealing and suitable destination for Californians seeking an authentic and cost-effective outdoor experience. Its prime location along the renowned Kern River, just outside Kernville, makes it easily accessible for many residents across the state, offering a genuine taste of the High Sierra without the need for extensive travel or reservation fees.

The fundamental allure for locals is the "FREE CAMPING" aspect. In a state known for its high cost of living, Upper Springhill provides an invaluable opportunity for families and individuals to connect with nature on a budget. This affordability makes frequent outdoor adventures a realistic possibility, fostering a deeper appreciation for California's natural resources.

Beyond the financial benefit, the campground's natural setting is a major draw. The "Plenty of space and shade" ensures a comfortable environment, even during warm California summers, allowing campers to relax and unwind. Direct access to the Kern River provides endless opportunities for recreation, from fishing and swimming to simply enjoying the soothing sounds of the flowing water. While some visitors have noted challenges with noise from other campers, this is a common characteristic of popular free, dispersed areas, and many find ways to enjoy the overall experience despite occasional disturbances. The spirit of shared outdoor enjoyment often prevails.

The fact that Upper Springhill accommodates everything from tents to 32-ft motorhomes broadens its appeal, making it versatile for diverse camping styles. The long-standing loyalty of repeat visitors, who have been coming for decades and attest to making "so many memories," underscores its cherished status among Californians. For those who value freedom, natural beauty, and a budget-friendly escape, Upper Springhill Campground offers a truly remarkable and beloved option for creating lasting outdoor experiences in the heart of the Sequoia National Forest.

Upper Springhill Campground

Kernville, CA 93238, USA