Headquarters
4.20203 reviewsPO BOX 1640
Quick Facts
2,800 ftPrice
$34 - $106/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
43 campsites
Season
Open January 1 throu...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
2,800 ftPrice
$34 - $106/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
43 campsites
Season
Open January 1 throu...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsHeadquarters
$34.00 - $106.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range based on site type: standard nonelectric and tent sites are $34/night, RV sites are $34/night, and yurts are $106/night. Additional...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$96.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$130.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider760-376-1815sschmidt@goexplorus.com
What Campers Say
4.20
Satisfactory
Based on 203 reviews
154 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewspeacefulcleanfriendly
"User reviews highlight diverse experiences, with praise for the natural beauty, river proximity, and helpful camp hosts. Criticisms focus on crowded conditions, poor maintenance of facilities, and noisy campers."
Fees & Passes at Headquarters
$34 - $106/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Premium Site
Best views or amenities
Stay Limit: 14 consecutive nights max during stay.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations inc...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Rocky Mountain Recreation Company website.
Best Time to Camp at Headquarters
Summer transforms this mountain sanctuary into a sun-drenched paradise, with daytime temperatures climbing to a toasty 94°F before cooling to a comfortable 40°F under star-filled skies. The peak season brings endless blue skies and dry conditions perfect for river adventures and trail exploration. As autumn arrives, crowds thin and temperatures moderate, creating an intimate camping experience. Winter unveils a quieter, more contemplative side of the campground, with crisp air and peaceful solitude rewarding those hardy enough to embrace the cold.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
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: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open January 1 through December 31.
- Current Alerts: High river levels have damaged some campsites (June 2023). Fire restrictions may apply.
About Headquarters
Nestled alongside the rushing waters of the Kern River, Headquarters Campground serves as your gateway to adventure in the heart of Sequoia National Forest. This riverside retreat draws outdoor enthusiasts from across California, offering the perfect basecamp for those seeking to cast a line in pristine waters, navigate thrilling rapids, or explore scenic mountain trails. Just minutes from the charming town of Kernville, you'll find yourself immersed in nature while staying connected to local amenities and supplies.
Headquarters Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including tent camping, RV sites, and yurt lodging, offering flexibility for different campers.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the living history surrounding Headquarters Campground. The nearby Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail winds through landscapes that have witnessed over a century of Forest Service stewardship. Along your journey, discover remarkably preserved Forest Service cabins dating from 1904 to 1909, their weathered logs telling stories of early rangers who first protected these magnificent lands. These historic structures stand as monuments to the pioneering spirit that helped establish America's conservation legacy.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain sanctuary into a sun-drenched paradise, with daytime temperatures climbing to a toasty 94°F before cooling to a comfortable 40°F under star-filled skies. The peak season brings endless blue skies and dry conditions perfect for river adventures and trail exploration. As autumn arrives, crowds thin and temperatures moderate, creating an intimate camping experience. Winter unveils a quieter, more contemplative side of the campground, with crisp air and peaceful solitude rewarding those hardy enough to embrace the cold.
ElevationPerched at 2,800 feet in the Sierra Nevada foothills, this mountain campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine ambiance. The elevation provides relief from valley heat while remaining low enough to avoid the thin air challenges of higher mountain camps. From this vantage point along the Kern River canyon, you'll experience the dramatic transition zone where river valley meets mountain slope.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of native trees creates a diverse landscape throughout the campground, where stately oaks provide deep shade, aromatic junipers perfume the air, and majestic cottonwoods whisper in the riverside breeze. This botanical variety ensures campers can choose their perfect spot, from sun-dappled openings to cool, shaded retreats. The star attraction remains the Kern River itself—a federally designated Wild and Scenic River whose crystal-clear waters dance over granite boulders, creating a natural symphony that lulls campers to sleep each night.
Geological RegionThe campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads within Sequoia National Forest, where ancient granite formations meet river-carved canyons. This mountainous terrain showcases nature's artistry through exposed rock faces, river-polished stones, and the diverse ecosystem supported by the convergence of oak woodlands, juniper groves, and riparian cottonwood galleries. The adjacent Kern River has spent millennia sculpting this landscape, creating the dramatic scenery and varied habitats that make this region a geological wonderland.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the sources, though some reviews mention challenges like "Bear box was too hard for me to open – I am 69 and my hands didn't have the strength to pull the lever," suggesting room for improvement.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as varying in size, with some being "huge sites," while others are "small and crowded." Specific complaints include limited space for larger RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary depending on the site. Some riverfront sites offer more seclusion, while other areas are "compact and close together." A recurring issue is non-residents walking through campsites to access the river.
Total Campsites43 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites adjacent to the river are recommended for privacy and views, while shaded sites are preferred in hot seasons.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is flexible, often handled by campground hosts during their rounds.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights max during stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six guests are allowed per site including children.
Groups
No explicit information was provided on group camping accommodations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops, with some sites closer to the river offering views and others near the road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1 through December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available at Recreation.gov and through their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability possible, but campsites may often be full during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur an additional fee equal to the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Headquarters Campground offers opportunities for a range of natural and recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The Kern River's proximity is a highlight, providing opportunities for water-based activities, though its strong currents make swimming risky. Wildlife viewing and stargazing are also popular pastimes.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant in the area, with nearby trails like the Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail offering expansive views. One review recommended the "Riverside Trail and the Packsaddle Trail," highlighting diverse options for exploration.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with one user sharing, "I caught a couple of trout just a few yards from the campsite." However, others noted challenges due to low water levels from droughts.Boating
Boating activities such as kayaking and rafting are explicitly mentioned in the authoritative source as popular in the area.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation is highlighted by user reviews, including sightings of a "blue heron across the river" and vibrant bird life. Frogs croaking at night were also noted.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible, with users describing it as "majestic and peaceful" during colder months. Activities include hiking and enjoying the serene environment.Water Sports
Kayaking and rafting are popular water sports available on the Kern River.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Seasonal fire restrictions may prohibit campfires and charcoal use. Propane stoves are allowed during restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include strong river currents, wildlife like bears and skunks, and high temperatures in summer. Vault toilets may emit strong odors.
Active alertsHigh river levels have damaged some campsites (June 2023). Fire restrictions may apply.
Weather at Headquarters
51
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Kern Valley Hospital in Lake Isabella (approximately 15 miles away). Emergency services also accessible in Kernville, including police and fire stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but some users found them hard to use, such as a "huge trash container that we couldn't figure out how to open more than about 4 inches."
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Kern River, with some campsites offering views or private beaches.
Common complaintsComplaints include noisy neighbors, overcrowding during summer, dirty vault toilets, and limited shade at some sites.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Hosts like Mark and Lizz received positive mentions.
Campground Map
PO BOX 1640
Driving directionsFrom Bakersfield, take Highway 178 East to Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella, take Highway 155 around the west side of the lake to the town of Kernville. From Kernville, go 4 miles north on Sierra Way (Mountain 99) to the campground.
Access is via paved roads, but some turns are narrow, posing challenges for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Kernville (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Bakersfield (approx. 60 miles, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes), Lake Isabella (approx. 15 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fishing gear are available in Kernville, located approximately 6 miles south of the campground. Larger stores are available in Lake Isabella.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.2
203 reviews
Headquarters is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight diverse experiences, with praise for the natural beauty, river proximity, and helpful camp hosts. Criticisms focus on crowded conditions, poor maintenance of facilities, and noisy campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 203 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the peaceful setting, "tucked away" feel, and friendly camp hosts. Yurts are described as "amazing and so clean," and stargazing is often mentioned as a highlight.
Based on 203 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include dirty vault toilets, crowded sites, and intrusive noise from other campers. Some sites are too close to the road, with traffic noise being a downside.
Based on 203 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include choosing riverfront sites for privacy and better views, bringing earplugs for noise, and preparing for mosquitos at twilight. Several users advised bringing water due to...
Based on 203 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight high temperatures, crowds, and mosquitos, while winter reviews praise the quiet and scenic beauty. Spring and fall are noted for moderate weather and fewer visitors.
Based on 203 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Headquarters is just out of town enough to feel remote but close for convenience." - Gary Harris. "Vault toilets were very clean and smelled good." - Forest Ferkin. "The blue heron across the river...
Based on 203 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 29 is described as "having a slope but plenty of room," while sites 23, 24, and 25 are praised for great beach areas. Site-specific issues include noise (e.g., Site 18) and proximity to...
Based on 203 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility concerns include the strength required to open bear box latches and the lack of detailed information about accessible features.
Based on 203 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information about pet policies or experiences was found.
Based on 203 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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