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The area around Bakersfield, California is filled with remarkable geological features, dramatic mountain peaks, and vibrant flora and fauna. And as you might imagine, we think the best way to explore the greater Kern County region is by camping at as many of the local campgrounds as possible. To help get you started on that lofty goal, here are a handful of our favorite campgrounds in and around Bakersfield, CA.
1. Rivernook Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Monika V.
This vast, privately-owned campground is located on the banks of the Kern River. The Rivernook Campground is about a one hour’s drive northeast of downtown Bakersfield. This is an ideal destination for fans of water sports, who can spend the day soaking up the sun as they float down the river in an inflatable raft or inner tube.
Each campsite has its own fire ring for toasting marshmallows. Plus, the campground also offers an on-site market, pull-thru RV sites, all utility hookups, wifi, and very clean shower facilities—where hot water is available for free from 7 am to 8 pm.
“The bathrooms and showers provided by the campground were seriously a game-changer. They were very clean and tidy, and someone came through to sanitize regularly.” –Monika V.
Campground Details:
- Price: $38-55
- Number of sites: 455
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. Bakersfield River Run RV Park
You’ll find this well-equipped RV park right in the heart of Bakersfield, near the intersection of Highway 99 and the Rosedale Highway.
Each of the 121 campsites at River Run RV Park include 20-, 30- & 50-amp electrical hookups, WiFi, cable TV, water, and sewer hookups. Additionally, the RV park has a clubhouse with a well-maintained pool, an indoor spa, poker table, big screen TV, and a small gym. There’s even a small market on-site that provides propane, food, and any RV equipment you might need.
“Our spot was easy to pull through with a little shade, & the place is well kept & quiet! Laundry room was clean & fees were low.” –Emily L.
Campground Details:
- Price: $42-49
- Number of sites: 121
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
3. Kern River Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Gina H.
This small campground is situated just over 10 miles northeast of Bakersfield—near Lake Ming and the CALM Zoo.
Each of the 50 campsites at Kern River Campground include a picnic table and a fire ring. The shade from the trees and the breeze coming off the Kern River will help keep you cool in the south-central California sun. Plus, fans of rafting and canoeing can find plenty of opportunities for fun & adventure in the Kern River rapids. If you’re looking for an non-water activity, there are numerous tidy, tree-covered trails and paths throughout nearby Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, which are perfect for hiking.
“The campground is right off the highway, and even though you can see cars going by, the traffic is light, and the campground is far enough where it doesn’t bother you at all.” –Carlisle B.
Campground Details:
- Price: $20-40
- Number of sites: 50
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
4. Orange Grove RV Park
This picturesque and well-maintained RV park is located less than 10 miles southeast of the center of Bakersfield. Visitors should just hop on the Edison Highway for about 15 minutes, and in no time you’ll see the turn-off for this beautiful campground.
Living up to its name, each RV site throughout Orange Grove RV Park typically has several orange trees surrounding it. Plus, you’re allowed to pick fresh oranges from the trees whenever you wish. The campground also includes a fully-equipped gym, an outdoor pool, an outdoor game area, and a billiards room. And as an additional bonus, there is free WiFi throughout the park.
“The camping spots are level and well maintained. You park in between orange trees.” -Peter M.
Campground Details:
- Price: $44-54
- Number of sites: 177
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
5. Tehachapi Mountain Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Ashley S.
If you follow State Route 58 southeast out of Bakersfield, for just over 40 miles, you’ll come to this secluded destination.
Tehachapi Mountain Park’s proximity to Woody’s Peak (elevation: 7,986 ft) makes it an excellent base camp for anyone interested in taking on the area’s most challenging hikes. However, for those who want a less rigorous walking experience, we’d suggest strolling along different sections of the Nuooah Nature Trail. Pets are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
“Remote, lots of site options and beautiful scenery! My dog and I had a good weekend away.” –Ashley S.
Campground Details:
- Price: $18-25
- Number of sites: 61
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
6. Bakersfield RV Resort
This luxurious campground is located in southern Bakersfield, next to the intersection of Wible Road and Pacheco Road. Each site at Bakersfield RV Resort is well-maintained, with level paving, full hookups, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV.
Visitors who are prioritizing relaxation, can spend their extra time at the on-site clubhouse, in the hot tub, or at the park’s restaurant, dubbed the Crest Bar & Grill. And for those looking to work up a sweat, they can visit the well-equipped gym for a full workout.
“Very nice RV Park at very reasonable rates, paved roads, great amenities, bar and restaurants.” –Michael B.
Campground Details:
- Price: $45-55
- Number of sites: 215
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
7. McGill Campground & Group Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Lani Y.
You’ll find this campground nestled within a towering pine tree forest, under the shadow of the glorious Pinos Mountain Range.
It’ll take you just over an hour to get here from Bakersfield, but the incredible stargazing opportunities and stunning vistas make the slightly longer drive well worth it. The McGill Campground caters to every camping need, with plenty of tent & RV sites, plus two well-equipped group sites—each of which has enough parking for ten or more RVs!
“Each campsite has a bonfire pit with a fire stake, a family-sized bench, and is surrounded by beautiful pine trees.” –Jasmine
Campground Details:
- Price: $20-120
- Number of sites: 74
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
There are plenty of well-equipped, high-quality camping opportunities within an hour’s drive of Bakersfield, California. These campgrounds are just a small selection of all the different options throughout this area. For more ideas, head over to The Dyrt’s full list of the best camping near Bakersfield, CA.
This article was brought to you by Banner & Oak.
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