Chimney Creek Campground
01 reviewBureau of Land Management, Bakersfield Field Office, 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA, 93308, USA
Quick Facts
5,700 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
36 campsites
Season
Potable water availa...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
5,700 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
36 campsites
Season
Potable water availa...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Chimney Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are mentioned for camping at Chimney Creek Campground. The campground is described in an authoritative source as 'free, primitive.'
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
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 1 reviews
12 Google reviews
Most mentioned
shade
Some mention
mosquitoes
"Reviews highlight Chimney Creek Campground's remote and scenic location as a major draw. It is appreciated for its shaded spots and primitive camping experience, but ticks and mosquitoes seem to be common issues."
Fees & Passes at Chimney Creek Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Cancellation: Given that the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and no fees are charged, ther...
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 Chimney Creek Campground
Bask in the warm, dry embrace of summer days that define this high desert retreat. The reliable sunshine and low humidity create perfect conditions for hiking, stargazing, and campfire conversations that stretch long into the night. While the area enjoys a temperate climate without the extremes of heavy snow or torrential rains, the clear mountain air can bring cool evenings that make a sleeping bag feel especially cozy.
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: The availability of potable water during summer months suggests summer might be the peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Potable water availability is noted for summer months. No other seasonal information is given.
About Chimney Creek Campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Chimney Creek Campground, where 36 secluded sites await beneath a canopy of pinyon pines, grey pines, and towering oaks. This hidden gem in the Chimney Peak Recreation Area offers the rare gift of solitude without sacrificing comfort. Each thoughtfully spaced campsite comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. During summer months, fresh potable water flows at site 36, while the rest of the year, this free primitive campground rewards the prepared traveler with unmatched peace and quiet. Tucked adjacent to the pristine Owens Peak Wilderness, this lesser-known sanctuary attracts those who prefer their adventures off the beaten path.
Chimney Creek Campground offers a rustic camping experience. It primarily caters to tent and small trailer campers and is ideal for groups seeking a primitive environment.
Weather and SeasonsBask in the warm, dry embrace of summer days that define this high desert retreat. The reliable sunshine and low humidity create perfect conditions for hiking, stargazing, and campfire conversations that stretch long into the night. While the area enjoys a temperate climate without the extremes of heavy snow or torrential rains, the clear mountain air can bring cool evenings that make a sleeping bag feel especially cozy.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 5,700 feet above sea level, Chimney Creek Campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat. This sweet spot elevation delivers crisp, cool mornings and comfortable afternoons even during summer's peak. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and sage, while the altitude provides just enough chill to make campfires a welcome gathering place as sunset paints the surrounding peaks in shades of gold and crimson.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry unfolds at every turn in this stunning landscape where Chimney Creek meanders through groves of aromatic pinyon pines, stately grey pines, and spreading oaks. The famous Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail winds nearby, inviting adventurers to explore miles of pristine wilderness. From your campsite, watch as morning light filters through the forest canopy, creating a dappled dance of shadows and sunshine. The surrounding peaks stand as silent sentinels, their rugged profiles softened by the gentle whisper of wind through pine needles and the occasional splash of creek water over smooth stones.
Geological RegionDiscover a unique geological treasure where Chimney Peak Recreation Area forms a protected corridor cherry-stemmed out of the magnificent Owens Peak Wilderness. This special designation preserves the area's dramatic landscape of ancient granite formations and volcanic remnants while maintaining accessible camping opportunities. The distinctive mix of pinyon pines, grey pines, and oaks tells the story of converging ecosystems, where high desert meets mountain forest in a spectacular display of biodiversity. The surrounding peaks and ridges showcase millions of years of geological history, from uplifted granite batholiths to weathered volcanic plugs that give Chimney Peak its distinctive profile.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options are not explicitly stated in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are spaced out along Chimney Creek and range in size to accommodate smaller trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are described as spaced out among clusters, offering a degree of privacy.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe campground is recommended for groups or those with smaller trailers.
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Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into clusters of campsites spaced along Chimney Creek. The road includes spurs that lead to numerous campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonPotable water availability is noted for summer months. No other seasonal information is given.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyGiven that the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and no fees are charged, there is no cancellation policy.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Chimney Creek Campground is favored for its proximity to hiking trails and scenic natural surroundings. It provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and general relaxation in a remote, shaded environment.
Hiking
The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail crosses Canebrake Road near the campground. Additionally, Chimney Creek Trail, a primitive route starting at the cattle guard, is a notable hiking option.Wildlife viewing
The campground is nestled among a scenic natural setting, which offers opportunities for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the sources.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each site has a fire ring, suggesting that campfires are likely permitted, though no specific policies are detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and mosquitoes are explicitly mentioned in user reviews as potential issues.
Weather at Chimney Creek Campground
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services would likely be in Lake Isabella, the nearest town approximately 30 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesThe availability of potable water during summer months suggests summer might be the peak season.
Trash and recyclingNo detailed information about trash or recycling facilities was provided.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Chimney Creek, providing natural water features though no swimming or fishing activities are mentioned.
Common complaintsUser reviews note ticks and mosquitoes as a concern. One user found the campground 'too lonely,' indicating it may not be ideal for those who prefer social camping environments.
Campground Map
Bureau of Land Management, Bakersfield Field Office, 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA, 93308, USA
Driving directionsFollow highway CA-178 approximately 30 miles east of the town of Lake Isabella and turn north onto Canebreak Road. Follow this graded dirt road approximately 9 miles to the prominent junction of Canebrake and Long Valley/ Chimney Basin Roads and continue straight (right fork). The campground will be on the right in an additional 2 miles. The campground road includes spurs to numerous sites. Potable water during the summer months is located at the very end of the campground road (1 mile).
The campground is accessible via a graded dirt road approximately 9 miles from Canebreak Road. The road quality is described as manageable though not paved.Nearby places
Lake Isabella (30 miles, approximately 50 minutes via highway CA-178)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, are likely located in Lake Isabella, approximately 30 miles from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
1 reviews
Chimney Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight Chimney Creek Campground's remote and scenic location as a major draw. It is appreciated for its shaded spots and primitive camping experience, but ticks and mosquitoes seem to be common issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
"Plenty of shaded spots and it’s a very beautiful setting."
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Ticks and mosquitoes are frequently noted as issues.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Camping with a group may enhance the experience due to its remote nature.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is described as warm and dry during the summer months, which aligns with its seasonal potable water availability.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Free, primitive campground. I went there on a Tuesday in late July and only saw one other person pass through in a truck. It was a little too lonely for me so I left and went to Kennedy Meadows."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Potable water is only available at site 36 during summer months.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not discussed in user reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
User reviews do not mention pet policies.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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