Kcl Campground
4.5519 reviewsBureau of Land Management, Bakersfield Field Office, 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93308, USA
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsKcl Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping at KCL Campground is free of charge. Visitors must pack out all garbage as there is no trash service, and no additional fees are required.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider661-391-6000BLM_CA_Web_BK@blm.gov
What Campers Say
4.55
Top-Rated
Based on 19 reviews
52 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewspeacefulcleanhiking
Some mention
noise
"KCL Campground is highly appreciated for its rustic charm, natural beauty, and low cost (free). Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the campground's peaceful atmosphere. Some common criticisms include the lack of privacy between campsites and the absence of potable water and garbage services."
Fees & Passes at Kcl Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: The stated stay limit is unclear from the authoritative source. Users should inquire directly at the site.
Cancellation: Not applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Bureau of Land Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Kcl Campground
Experience nature's perfect balance in this land of endless blue skies and gentle breezes. The campground basks in delightfully dry conditions year-round, with comfortable temperatures and refreshingly low humidity that make every outdoor activity a pleasure. Winter brings crisp, invigorating mornings perfect for wildlife watching, while summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched haven—though savvy campers know to seek shade during peak afternoon hours when the mercury climbs.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Spring and fall months are suggested as peak seasons based on weather conditions and user reviews.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round.
- Current Alerts: No current alerts are noted in the provided information.
About Kcl Campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of KCL Campground, where 12 intimate campsites await those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This first-come, first-serve gem offers a true back-to-basics adventure, complete with crackling fire pits, sturdy picnic tables, and convenient horse corrals for equestrian explorers. Two thoughtfully designed ADA-compliant sites ensure everyone can experience this rustic paradise. While you'll find well-maintained vault toilets, the absence of electricity and running water creates the perfect digital detox environment. Remember to bring your own water and embrace the leave-no-trace ethos by packing out everything you bring in—it's all part of preserving this pristine landscape for future adventurers.
KCL Campground caters to first-come, first-serve camping with a focus on primitive and tent camping. RV campers can also utilize the site, though there are no hookups or amenities specifically for RVs.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this fascinating slice of California's ranching heritage. Once the domain of the legendary Kern County Land Company, the campground preserves authentic pieces of the Old West, including weathered barns that have witnessed generations of cattle drives and historic corrals where cowboys once gathered their herds. These carefully preserved structures stand as monuments to the pioneering spirit that shaped this rugged landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect balance in this land of endless blue skies and gentle breezes. The campground basks in delightfully dry conditions year-round, with comfortable temperatures and refreshingly low humidity that make every outdoor activity a pleasure. Winter brings crisp, invigorating mornings perfect for wildlife watching, while summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched haven—though savvy campers know to seek shade during peak afternoon hours when the mercury climbs.
ElevationNestled at an elevation that perfectly balances accessibility with scenic beauty, this campground offers comfortable conditions for camping throughout most of the year.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a captivating semi-arid wonderland where graceful shade trees provide welcome respite and rolling hills stretch to the horizon. This is nature's theater at its finest—watch majestic tule elk graze across golden grasslands while raptors soar overhead, their shadows dancing across the terrain. As twilight falls, listen for the haunting calls of great horned owls that reign over this peaceful realm. The landscape's subtle beauty reveals itself slowly, rewarding patient observers with moments of pure serenity and unexpected wildlife encounters.
Geological RegionDiscover the remarkable Carrizo Plain National Monument, California's best-kept secret and often called the 'Serengeti of California.' This extraordinary semi-arid grassland ecosystem showcases nature's artistry through sweeping vistas, undulating hills, and fascinating geological formations that tell the story of millions of years of Earth's evolution. The monument's unique topography creates a stunning backdrop for your camping adventure, where ancient forces have sculpted a landscape unlike anywhere else in the Golden State.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo of the campsites are elevated and ADA compliant, and the vault toilets are also ADA accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as small, with limited space between them, though there is room for additional tents and vehicles in some areas.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the proximity of campsites to one another.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near trees offer shade and are preferable in hotter weather. Arrive early to secure a site.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Not specified
- first-come, first-serve.
Check-out
- Not specified
- first-come, first-serve.
Stay Limit
The stated stay limit is unclear from the authoritative source. Users should inquire directly at the site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not explicitly provided.
Groups
No specific group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 12 sites, two of which are ADA-compliant. Sites are relatively close together.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsN/A - Reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve. Visitors are advised to arrive early as the campground is frequently busy.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
KCL Campground provides opportunities for hiking, stargazing, wildlife viewing, and exploring the Carrizo Plain National Monument. It is a suitable base for exploring nearby trails and the area's natural beauty.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible from the campground, including one leading to Caliente Mountain. Hiking opportunities provide scenic views and a chance to explore the Carrizo Plain National Monument.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported sightings of great horned owls, pronghorns, tule elk, and various birds and small mammals. Campers are also advised to watch for snakes during warmer months.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, but the campground has been described as best used during the cooler winter and spring months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable to this campground due to the lack of water bodies.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are provided at each site. Visitors must adhere to fire safety regulations.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated; visitors are advised to be considerate of others.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include snakes in warm weather and uneven ground. No potable water or trash services are available.
Active alertsNo current alerts are noted in the provided information.
Weather at Kcl Campground
68
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Bakersfield, CA, approximately 60 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and fall months are suggested as peak seasons based on weather conditions and user reviews.
Trash and recyclingNo garbage service is available. Campers must pack out all refuse.
Proximity to water featuresNo notable water features are near the campground.
Common complaintsSome reviews noted lack of privacy due to closely spaced sites, uneven ground, and noise from generators.
HostNo campground host is mentioned.
Campground Map
Bureau of Land Management, Bakersfield Field Office, 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93308, USA
Driving directionsOnce on Carrizo Plain National Monument, continue on Soda Lake Road until you arrive at sign for KCL Campground. Turn onto KCL Campground Road and travel 1/2 mile to campground.
Access is via dirt, gravel, and country-paved roads. Roads are passable but may require caution.Nearby places
Bakersfield (approx. 60 miles)
Nearby supplies
Visitors are advised to bring all necessary supplies, including water, as no amenities are provided at or near the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
19 reviews
Kcl Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
KCL Campground is highly appreciated for its rustic charm, natural beauty, and low cost (free). Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the campground's peaceful atmosphere. Some common criticisms include the lack of privacy between campsites and the absence of potable water and garbage services.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, fire pits, picnic tables, scenic views, peaceful ambiance, proximity to hiking trails, and opportunities for stargazing and wildlife viewing.
Based on 19 reviewsCommon Concerns
Close proximity of campsites limiting privacy, small campsite sizes, lack of potable water, absence of garbage service, and occasional noise from generators.
Based on 19 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water and garbage bags. Leveling equipment is recommended for RVs. Visit during cooler months for a better experience, as summer temperatures can be extreme.
Based on 19 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most popular and pleasant during the winter and spring, with blooming wildflowers and moderate temperatures. Summers are less favorable due to high heat.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Surprisingly nice campground at the base of the hills & edge of a large valley.' - Jack Rondini
2. 'Bring your own supplies including water.' - Dave Belcher
3. 'Beautiful, simple, quite...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campsites are described as small and closely spaced, limiting privacy. Elevated ADA-compliant sites are available.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground features two elevated ADA-compliant campsites and accessible vault toilets, providing decent accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some trails are suitable for dogs.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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