Limestone Campground

Star4.10
146 reviews
PO BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, California, 93238

Quick Facts

3,500 ft

Price

$34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

19 campsites

Season

Open season runs fro...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Rocky Mountain Recreation Company, a division of ExplorUS site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Limestone Campground
$34.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The recreation use fee for tent-only sites is $34 per night during peak season, with an additional $2 per night on holiday weekends. Rates do not...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
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

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Provider
760-376-1815sschmidt@goexplorus.com
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What Campers Say

4.10

Satisfactory

Based on 146 reviews

70 Google reviews

Most mentioned

beachfriendly

Some mention

noisesmall

"The campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.84. Positive aspects include its peaceful setting, proximity to the Kern River, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Negative feedback often centers on the lack of amenities, poor maintenance of vault toilets, and limited privacy at some sites."

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Campground Map

PO BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, California, 93238

Limestone Campground

PO BOX 1640, KERNVILLE, California, 93238

Driving directionsOff of Highway 99 in Bakersfield, California, 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 north on Sierra Way/Mountain 99 for 16 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and located off Sierra Way/Mountain 99, 16 miles north of Kernville. No seasonal closures were mentioned, but the roads are narrow, and not suitable for large trailers or motorhomes.
Nearby places
Kernville (16 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Kernville is the closest location for groceries, ice, fuel, and camping supplies, approximately 16 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Limestone Campground

Limestone Campground basks in California's signature sunshine throughout the camping season, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Late autumn and early spring bring crisp mornings around 40°F that warm to comfortable afternoons near 64°F—perfect sweater weather for campfire gatherings. Summer transforms the canyon into a sun-drenched sanctuary where temperatures soar, making early morning hikes and afternoon river dips especially refreshing. The region's Mediterranean climate means rain clouds rarely interrupt your plans, and snow is virtually unheard of, allowing for extended seasons of reliable camping weather.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Most popular season with river activities, but can be very hot and currents are strong.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Late autumn brings crisp mornings; fall and early fall noted as ideal seasons.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring and early fall offer moderate weather and are described as ideal camping times.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed for reservations between Oct 25 and Jun 5; winter camping not generally available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: March 28 - October 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season runs from March 28th to October 25th (peak season). Closed for reservations between October 25th and June 5th.
  • Current Alerts: Strong river currents limit swimming options, per reviews dated July 2023. There are no recent advisories about closures or major restrictions.

About Limestone Campground

Tucked away along the rushing waters of the Upper Kern River, Limestone Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience at 3,500 feet elevation. This intimate, tent-only retreat is embraced by aromatic gray pines and gnarled scrub oaks, where the sounds of nature replace modern distractions. While amenities are purposefully simple—picnic tables and vault toilets with no running water or electrical hookups—the rewards are immeasurable for those seeking genuine wilderness solitude. Thoughtfully managed by Rocky Mountain Recreation Company, this hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for adventurers ready to disconnect and explore the raw beauty of the Southern Sierra.
Limestone Campground primarily caters to tent camping and offers a rustic camping experience without modern amenities. It is a small facility with 19 paved sites, making it a quieter alternative to larger campgrounds in the area.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
No official check-in time provided.
Check-out
No official check-out time provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per stay.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Limestone Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, leveraging its natural riverside setting and proximity to other attractions within the Sequoia National Forest. Popular activities include whitewater rafting, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The Kern River, which flows near the campground, is a focal point for water-based activities. There are also opportunities for wildlife viewing and visiting nearby attractions such as the Trail of 100 Giants.
HikingThe campground is well-situated for hiking, with several trails nearby, including popular destinations like the Trail of 100 Giants and Packsaddle Cave. Visitors recommend day trips to these hiking spots for their scenic value.
FishingFishing is a popular activity along the Kern River, with some reviewers describing it as 'great fishing if you like stream fishing.' The river is home to various fish species, making it suitable for anglers.
SwimmingSwimming in the Kern River is possible but comes with safety concerns due to strong currents. There are calmer areas, such as a roped-off beach, which are safer for children. One reviewer noted, 'Crocodile Rock was great, the current so slow there.'
BoatingWhitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities in the Upper Kern River. Visitors are encouraged to check safety regulations and permitting requirements.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of bobcats, raccoons, and other local fauna. One camper mentioned observing a group of bobcats at night.
Beach activitiesThe campground features a small beach area near Crocodile Rock, suitable for sunbathing and water play. Visitors have described it as an excellent spot to cool down.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe Upper Kern River has strong currents, making swimming dangerous in most areas. Wildlife such as bobcats and raccoons have been noted in the area.
Active AlertsStrong river currents limit swimming options, per reviews dated July 2023. There are no recent advisories about closures or major restrictions.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Limestone Campground

Reviews

4.1
146 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Limestone Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.84. Positive aspects include its peaceful setting, proximity to the Kern River, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Negative feedback often centers on the lack of amenities, poor maintenance of vault toilets, and limited privacy at some sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 146 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praise the tranquil environment and natural beauty, including the close proximity to the Kern River and the small beach by Crocodile Rock. The campsite is also appreciated for its...
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Based on 146 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the absence of potable water, poorly maintained vault toilets, and inconsistent site quality. Some campers noted the presence of trash and unkempt conditions, while others...
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Based on 146 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water, as there is no potable water available. Campers are advised to bring insect repellent and shade canopies due to high temperatures and bugs during the summer. Several reviewers...
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Based on 146 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, but it can be very hot, and the Kern River's current may be strong. Spring and early fall offer more moderate weather conditions, making them ideal for camping....
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Based on 146 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms were filthy, with no toilet paper.' 2. 'Great fishing if you like stream fishing.' 3. 'It was hot!!! Even at 4,000 feet of elevation.' 4. 'The river is less than 100 feet away and over...
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Based on 146 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 8 is highly recommended for its proximity to the river. Sites 18 and 19 are noted for their privacy and spaciousness. Site 1 is criticized for its poor location near dumpsters and vault toilets....
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Based on 146 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility information is limited, but the sloping terrain of many campsites may present challenges for campers with mobility issues.
Based on 146 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, which is a major draw for many visitors. One reviewer mentioned, 'Bonus points: the campsite is dog-friendly, which is a must for us and our puppy!'
Based on 146 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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