Limestone sits along the Upper Kern River at 3,500 feet, where oak and gray pine shade 19 paved sites. The Upper Kern is designated Wild and Scenic, making this a solid base for river running or a quiet retreat 16 miles north of Kernville.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 💵Fee per Night
- Free
- 📍GPS
- 35.96283, -118.47729
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 760-376-1815
- 🗺️Address
- CA
The Camp
The 19 paved sites spread through oak and gray pine woodland alongside the Upper Kern River. Vault toilets and picnic areas handle the basics. At 3,500 feet elevation, you'll find relief from valley heat without the alpine chill of higher Sierra camps.
The setting captures the transition zone character of the southern Sierra Nevada — gray pines and scrub oaks cling to steep canyon walls while cottonwoods and willows mark the water's edge. The river runs designated Wild and Scenic here, meaning the corridor stays undeveloped.
What to Know
Call (760) 376-1269 for current site availability and conditions. The campground sits 16 miles north of Kernville, putting you within day-trip range of giant sequoia groves without the crowds of the main parks.
Nearby
Whitewater rafting and kayaking draw most visitors to the Upper Kern. The forest service maintains information on safety requirements, permits, and local outfitters for river trips. Check their Upper Kern River overview for current conditions and regulations.
The Trail of 100 Giants in Sequoia National Park makes for a worthy day trip — you can see the massive sequoias that give the forest its name without committing to a full park visit. The Giant Sequoia Mercantile stocks books, maps, camping supplies, and local art if you need to resupply or want a memento.
The broader Sequoia National Forest stretches across 1.1 million acres, with elevations from 1,000 to 12,000 feet. This creates the dramatic canyons and waterfalls like Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls that define the region's character.