Fairview Campground puts you along the Upper Kern River at 3,500 feet, where oak and gray pine shade 55 paved sites arranged in three loops. The setting delivers on both fronts — river access for paddlers and direct trailhead connections for hikers and mountain bikers.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 55
- 💵Fee per Night
- $36
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 3,500 ft
- 📍GPS
- 35.92884, -118.49045
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 760-376-1815
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The three loops spread sites across varying terrain, with some offering river views or direct access to the Upper Kern's banks. At this elevation, you're in the transition zone where gray pines and scrub oaks cover the steep canyon walls while cottonwoods and willows cluster near the water. The campground sits 13 miles north of Kernville, positioned where the designated Wild and Scenic River cuts through classic Sierra Nevada foothills.
A restaurant operates next to the campground, which saves the drive to town for meals or forgotten supplies.
What to Know
Reservations are required, and spring and fall represent the prime seasons when temperatures hit the sweet spot between winter cold and summer heat. The $36 nightly fee reflects the developed nature — paved sites, drinking water, and vault toilets throughout.
Rocky Mountain Recreation Company operates the facility, so expect private concession standards rather than typical Forest Service maintenance levels.
Nearby
The south end of the campground connects directly to three established trails: the 4-mile Tobias Trail, 13-mile Whiskey Flat Trail, and 16-mile Flynn Canyon Trail. All accommodate both hikers and mountain bikers, giving you options whether you want a quick morning loop or a full-day adventure.
The Upper Kern River draws whitewater enthusiasts, though you'll need to check current safety requirements and permitting through the Forest Service. Local outfitters operate in the area for those preferring guided trips.
For day trips, the campground positions you well for runs to Sequoia National Park, the Trail of 100 Giants, or the various sequoia groves within Giant Sequoia National Monument. The Giant Sequoia Mercantile stocks maps, books, and camping supplies if you need to resupply.