Headquarters

About

Headquarters Campground is located 4 miles north of Kernville along Mountain Highway 99, situated at 2,800 feet elevation overlooking the Kern Wild and Scenic River. The campground features 44 individual family sites, including one ADA-accessible unit and a yurt rental option. Some sites sit in the shade of oak, juniper, and cottonwood trees near the river, while others are more open with less shade. The Upper Kern River area offers excellent recreation opportunities including fishing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. The Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail begins just north of Kernville, stretching 11.5 miles through mixed pine and fir forest with views of the Kern River Valley. Day trips to Sequoia National Park and Giant Sequoia National Monument are also popular. The campground is operated by ExplorUS Hospitality Management under a concessionaire permit. Paved access roads lead to the campground, which accommodates trailers up to 27 feet. Campfires require a permit from the Ranger Station or preventwildfireca.org. Swimming in the river is not recommended due to strong currents.

Directions

From Bakersfield, take Highway 178 East to Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella, take Highway 155 around the west side of the lake to the town of Kernville. From Kernville, go 4 miles north on Sierra Way (Mountain Highway 99) to the campground.