Open for the 2026 season. The campground operates May through September. Reservations available via Recreation.gov.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
George Bush Loop Trail Area Closure
To provide for public safety and protect natural resources, the following acts are prohibited within the Western Divide Ranger District of the Sequoia National Forest. Being on, or within 100 feet of, the George Bush Loop Trail.
About
Camp Three Campground is a developed Forest Service campground set amidst oak and locust trees on the banks of the Upper Kern River in Sequoia National Forest. At an elevation of 2,800 feet, the campground provides easy access to one of California's premier whitewater rivers, drawing kayakers and rafters during the spring and early summer snowmelt season. The campground features 52 paved individual campsites and a group site that accommodates up to 30 people. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and access to vault toilets and drinking water from a hand pump. The Upper Kern River corridor offers outstanding recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, and swimming, though visitors should be cautious of strong river currents. Day trips to Sequoia National Park, the Trail of a Hundred Giants, and numerous sequoia groves are within reach. Operated by Rocky Mountain Recreation under permit from the Forest Service, the campground maintains quiet hours from 10pm to 6am. Glass containers are prohibited in the Kern Canyon area, and camping or campfires within 25 feet of the water's edge is not allowed. Campfire permits are required and fire restrictions may apply seasonally based on conditions.
Directions
From Highway 99 in Bakersfield, take Highway 178 east to Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella, take Highway 155 around the west side of the lake to Kernville. Turn north on Sierra Way/Mountain 99 and continue 5 miles to the campground.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $36 - $154 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (760) 376-3781 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
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