California / Tulare County / Kern Wild and Scenic River / Sequoia National Forest

Thunderbird Group Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates May through September. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Thunderbird Group Campground is located along the Wild and Scenic Upper Kern River at 3,200 feet elevation in Sequoia National Forest, approximately 6.5 miles north of the town of Kernville. The campground features three group sites that accommodate up to 54 people total, positioned in an open area with limited shade overlooking the scenic Kern River canyon. Gray pine, scrub oak, grasses and shrubs cling to the steep canyon walls, while cottonwoods and willows dot the riverbanks. The facility provides picnic tables and campfire rings at each site, with portable toilets available. No drinking water is available on-site, so campers must bring their own supply. Swimming in the river is not recommended due to strong currents, but fishing, kayaking, and rafting are popular activities on the Upper Kern River. The Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail begins just north of Kernville and stretches 11.5 miles through mixed pine and fir forest to Cannell Meadow, offering beautiful views of the Kern River Valley. The campground is operated under a concessionaire permit with ExplorUS. Campfire permits are required for campfires, barbecues, and camp stoves. Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov.

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 6.5 miles north on Sierra Way (Mountain 99) to the campground.

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