Fish Creek Campground
4.4617 reviews11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238
Quick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$17/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
37 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$17/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
37 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Fish Creek Campground
$17.00 - $17.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The camping fee is $17 per night for single sites. Additional vehicles cost $5 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a...
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Standard Site Fee$17.00
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$17.00
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USFS
Provider760-376-3781SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov
What Campers Say
4.46
Recommended
Based on 17 reviews
39 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanspaciousfriendly
"User reviews vary between praising the peaceful atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and spacious sites, and criticizing the lack of amenities, presence of noisy neighbors, and issues with bugs."
Fees & Passes at Fish Creek Campground
$17/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive days.
Cancellation: Cancellation policies are not available, as all sites are first-come, first-serve.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Kern River Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Fish Creek Campground
The rhythm of the seasons transforms Fish Creek into distinctly different experiences throughout the year. Summer arrives with sun-drenched days perfect for trail adventures, while evenings bring a refreshing mountain coolness that makes for ideal sleeping weather. As autumn approaches, the campground takes on a more intimate character with fewer visitors and crisp mountain air that can surprise unprepared campers with near-freezing nighttime temperatures. Seasoned visitors know to pack layers and warm sleeping gear, as the mountain's moods can shift dramatically between day and night.
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: Peak season aligns with the open dates from June through November, with higher activity occurring during summer months.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open seasonally from June 1 to November 30.
About Fish Creek Campground
Tucked away in a pristine forest of towering Lodgepole and Jeffrey pines, Fish Creek Campground offers 37 thoughtfully designed paved sites that blend seamlessly with nature. This mountain retreat has become a haven for adventure seekers, with dirt bike enthusiasts drawn to the extensive network of motorized trails that spider through the surrounding wilderness. For those seeking quieter pursuits, winding hiking paths lead to hidden meadows and the gentle waters of Fish Creek. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilets and non-potable water sources, while embracing Leave No Trace principles with its pack-in/pack-out policy. Remember to secure your campfire permit before arrival, as these mountain forests demand respect and caution.
Fish Creek Campground accommodates various types of camping, including tent sites and combined sites for both RVs and tents. It does not offer RV hookups, group camping, or luxury accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythm of the seasons transforms Fish Creek into distinctly different experiences throughout the year. Summer arrives with sun-drenched days perfect for trail adventures, while evenings bring a refreshing mountain coolness that makes for ideal sleeping weather. As autumn approaches, the campground takes on a more intimate character with fewer visitors and crisp mountain air that can surprise unprepared campers with near-freezing nighttime temperatures. Seasoned visitors know to pack layers and warm sleeping gear, as the mountain's moods can shift dramatically between day and night.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet in the Sierra Nevada, Fish Creek Campground offers a true high-country experience. This elevation gifts visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers, where temperatures rarely climb uncomfortably high, and creates the possibility of magical late-season snow dustings that transform the forest into a winter wonderland.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground rests in a cathedral of ancient pines, where Lodgepole and Jeffrey giants create a natural privacy screen between sites and fill the air with their distinctive vanilla-butterscotch scent. Fish Creek meanders nearby, its gentle babbling providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay, while open meadows burst with wildflowers in season. This diverse ecosystem attracts an abundance of wildlife – from curious squirrels and chipmunks to the occasional deer stepping delicately through the forest shadows. The interplay of dappled sunlight through the pine canopy creates an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionRising from the heart of Sequoia National Forest at 7,400 feet, Fish Creek Campground serves as your gateway to some of California's most spectacular wilderness areas. The surrounding landscape tells an ancient geological story, where the forces that created the Sierra Nevada have sculpted a dramatic backdrop of granite peaks and volcanic remnants. From this strategic basecamp, adventurers can explore both the South Sierra and Dome Land Wildernesses, each offering their own unique geological wonders and ecosystems shaped by millions of years of natural forces.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not have wheelchair-friendly toilets or other noted accessibility features.
Sites SizeCamping spots are spacious. Site 35 was described as accommodating 3 cars/SUVs, 3 large tents, 2 hammocks, and cooking equipment with room to spare.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced, providing good privacy. According to general comments, "well spaced sites provide good privacy." Some sites overlook the meadow and Fish Creek.
Total Campsites37 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near Fish Creek for scenic vistas and easy access to water features. Site 35 is highlighted for its spaciousness and trail access.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
Not applicable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground follows a large loop design with paved parking aprons. Sites are well-spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from June 1 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve. There are no reservations available, but reviews suggest arriving early to secure a spot during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not available, as all sites are first-come, first-serve.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Fish Creek Campground offers various recreational activities suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, including hunting, fishing, hiking, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) camping. The creek provides opportunities for fishing, particularly for rainbow trout, while nearby trails are accessible for hiking, dirt biking, and mountain biking. Viewing scenery is also highlighted as an activity.
Hiking
The campground features trails such as the Fish and Troy Connector Trail (#34E03) that spans 3 miles and the Jackass Creek Trail (#35E13) covering 12 miles. Trails are accessible for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and dirt biking. User P-LAC described hiking down to Fish Creek and exploring a meadow north of the creek as an enjoyable experience.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catching rainbow trout in the creek. User Stephen Waters remarked, "If you are a fly fisher, there is golden trout in the creek nearby." However, Sandesh noted limited fishing during certain seasons, suggesting spring may be better.Biking
Trails are suitable for mountain biking. User comments highlight dirt bike usage, but details specific to biking trails are limited.Wildlife viewing
Campground settings are described as natural and serene, ideal for viewing wildlife. However, specific species are not mentioned in the provided data.Winter Activities
None documented.Water Sports
None documented.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed with permits unless fire restrictions apply due to danger levels.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, and safe food storage techniques are required. Reviews mention falling pinecones and the possibility of glass on the ground.
Weather at Fish Creek Campground
39
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.4 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 are located in Kernville, 54 miles away. Contact Kern River Ranger District for emergencies: 760-376-3781.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season aligns with the open dates from June through November, with higher activity occurring during summer months.
Trash and recyclingNo trash collection service is available. Campers must pack out all their waste, described in authoritative sources as "Pack It In, Pack It Out."
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Fish Creek, which offers fishing opportunities for rainbow trout. Some sites provide easy access to the creek and meadows.
Common complaintsUser reviews have reported noisy neighbors, including ATVs and loud music. One review particularly mentions disruptive regular visitors affecting the campground's atmosphere.
Campground Map
11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238
Driving directionsFrom Pearsonville, CA, take US Rt. 395 north 2.6 miles to Kennedy Meadows sign. Turn left at sign onto Nine-Mile Canyon Rd and go 24.6 miles to Y intersection. Bear left onto Sherman Poso Rd and go 8.6 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
Paved roads provide good access to the campground. However, user reviews mention that some roads are challenging for larger vehicles. Parking aprons are paved, offering easier parking.Nearby places
Kernville: 54 miles northeast via Mountain Road 99 and Sherman Pass Road. Pearsonville: 32 miles west via Hwy. 395 and Nine Mile Canyon Rd.
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies are available at the general store near Troy Meadows, which is next to the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
17 reviews
Fish Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews vary between praising the peaceful atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and spacious sites, and criticizing the lack of amenities, presence of noisy neighbors, and issues with bugs.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the clean state of vault toilets, ample space at campsites, and the serene natural surroundings. For example, Ryan Barr noted, "Site 35 was spacious with a trail...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the campground's lack of cell service, potable water, and waste disposal services. Some users complained about noisy neighbors and ATV usage disrupting the peace, with Mike...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing bug repellents, boiling non-potable water for safety, and preparing for the lack of cell service. Whitney Lauritsen suggested a big bug net for picnics.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During summer, campers enjoy escaping high temperatures due to the elevation. However, reviews indicate buggy conditions in warm months. In spring, limited fishing opportunities were noted.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Vault toilets are clean and the toilet paper was abundant." - Whitney Lauritsen
"Had to haul gear up a hill. The hike down to Fish Creek was fun." - P-LAC
"No cell service or wifi for 10 miles." -...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 35 received multiple positive comments for its spaciousness and access to trails and the creek. Ryan Barr described it as quiet and ideal for exploration during mid-October.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews were provided.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly. Whitney Lauritsen commented on the positive experience for dogs: "Very dog-friendly - our group's pups enjoyed themselves too."
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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