Thunderbird Group Campground
4.388 reviewsPO BOX 1640
Quick Facts
3,200 ftPrice
$57 - $127/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
3 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
3,200 ftPrice
$57 - $127/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
3 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Thunderbird Group Campground
$57.00 - $127.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees for group sites range from $57 to $127 depending on the size and type of site. Additional fees may apply for reservations ($8 if made online, $9...
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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$57.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$57.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider760-376-1815sschmidt@goexplorus.com
What Campers Say
4.38
Recommended
Based on 8 reviews
26 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanstaff
"Overall, users find Thunderbird Group Campground to be a peaceful location with basic, well-maintained amenities. Many appreciate the picturesque surroundings and proximity to activities like hiking and water sports."
Fees & Passes at Thunderbird Group Campground
$57 - $127/night
Campsite fees
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights total at this campground within rolling 30 days.
Cancellation: Modifications carry a $10 fee; cancellations incur a $10 fee plus loss of the first night's recreati...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation.gov website.
Best Time to Camp at Thunderbird Group Campground
Summer at Thunderbird brings quintessential California mountain weather, with crisp mornings that warm to pleasant afternoons under brilliantly clear skies. Temperatures typically dance between a refreshing 38°F at dawn and a comfortable 54°F during the day, creating ideal conditions for both active adventures and peaceful relaxation. The dry climate means you can count on sunshine for your outdoor activities, with only gentle breezes rustling through the pines and virtually no rain to dampen your plans.
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: May 16 - September 13. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is open for reservations from May 16 to September 13 annually.
About Thunderbird Group Campground
Perched above the rushing waters of the Kern River, Thunderbird Group Campground offers an unforgettable basecamp for your next outdoor adventure in Sequoia National Forest. This group-friendly destination draws thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, who come to challenge the river's rapids, cast lines into pristine fishing holes, and explore miles of scenic hiking trails. Whether you're paddling through whitewater or gathering around the campfire with friends, Thunderbird provides the perfect blend of riverside excitement and mountain tranquility.
Thunderbird Group Campground caters exclusively to group camping, offering three large sites suitable for gatherings.
Historical SignificanceCamping at Thunderbird connects you to over a century of forest heritage in the majestic Sequoia National Forest, where ancient giant sequoias stand as living monuments to time itself. The surrounding wilderness holds treasures like the historic Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail, while nearby Forest Service cabins dating from 1904 to 1909 whisper stories of early rangers and adventurers who first explored these rugged mountains. Your group becomes part of this continuing legacy of outdoor exploration and conservation.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Thunderbird brings quintessential California mountain weather, with crisp mornings that warm to pleasant afternoons under brilliantly clear skies. Temperatures typically dance between a refreshing 38°F at dawn and a comfortable 54°F during the day, creating ideal conditions for both active adventures and peaceful relaxation. The dry climate means you can count on sunshine for your outdoor activities, with only gentle breezes rustling through the pines and virtually no rain to dampen your plans.
ElevationAt 3,200 feet above sea level, Thunderbird Group Campground offers a sweet spot in the Sierra Nevada foothills where mountain air meets river canyon drama. This moderate elevation provides comfortable camping conditions while treating visitors to sweeping views of the Kern River corridor below, all set against a backdrop of open terrain that invites exploration and star-filled night skies.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your campsite at 3,200 feet, the landscape unfolds in layers of rugged beauty. The mighty Kern Wild and Scenic River carves through dramatic canyon walls adorned with hardy gray pines and scrub oaks, while resilient shrubs cling to the slopes in a tapestry of muted greens and browns. Down by the water's edge, graceful cottonwoods and willows create ribbons of shade along the riverbanks, their leaves whispering secrets of the current below. Though the campground itself offers limited shade, the open setting ensures panoramic views of this spectacular river canyon ecosystem.
Geological RegionThunderbird sits in the heart of Sequoia National Forest at the southern terminus of the legendary Sierra Nevada range in central California, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. The campground's prime location overlooking the federally designated Kern Wild and Scenic River places you at the intersection of mountain and canyon ecosystems. Here, the ancient granite bones of the Sierra give way to steep canyon walls clothed in drought-adapted gray pines, tenacious scrub oaks, and hardy shrubs that have evolved to thrive in this dramatic terrain where water meets stone.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground features three group sites, which are designed to accommodate larger groups.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as peaceful and secluded, though some noise is expected due to the group camping setting.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 2 offers calmer waters for swimming a short walk away from the campsite. Consider bringing extra stakes for sandy ground.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights total at this campground within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group site accommodates multiple guests.
Groups
The campground features three group sites with picnic tables and campfire rings. Specific capacity limits for people and vehicles are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree group sites; setup includes picnic tables, campfire rings, and porta-potties.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from May 16 to September 13 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned for this campground.
Cancellation PolicyModifications carry a $10 fee; cancellations incur a $10 fee plus loss of the first night's recreation use fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) result in forfeiting the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is ideally located for outdoor pursuits like hiking, fishing, and water-based activities including kayaking and rafting. The proximity to the Kern River and local trails makes it a hub for adventurers. "Fav camping spot in Kernville," wrote one user, appreciating the access to water and natural surroundings.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound in the Upper Kern River area. Nearby, the Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail offers an 11.5-mile trek with stunning river valley views.Fishing
Fishing in the Kern River is a popular activity, but specific details about fish species or fishing regulations are not provided.Swimming
While swimming in the Kern River is not recommended due to strong currents, calmer spots for safe swimming can be found nearby, such as an offshoot of the river about 5 minutes from Site 2.Boating
Kayaking and rafting are highlighted as popular activities on the Upper Kern River.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the provided materials.Water Sports
Kayaking and rafting are the primary water sports available, with the Kern River providing a suitable environment for these activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. Campfires may be prohibited; contact Kern River Ranger District for updates.
Hazards
General hazardsStrong river currents pose a safety risk for swimming. Limited shade and sandy conditions may require extra stakes for tents.
Weather at Thunderbird Group Campground
50
°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 River Ranger District (760-376-3781) is the closest emergency contact for fire conditions or closures. For medical emergencies, nearest services would likely be in Kernville or Lake Isabella.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 13
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are not mentioned in available materials.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly overlooks the Kern River, but strong currents limit swimming opportunities. Calm water access is available nearby.
Common complaintsLimited shade, sandy soil, and no drinking water available at the campground. Porta-potties are the only restrooms provided.
HostRangers visit the campground regularly to enforce rules and manage compliance.
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 6.5 miles north on Sierra Way (Mountain 99) to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from nearby highways. Note that Sierra Way (Mountain 99) provides direct access, but driving through canyon areas may involve narrow and winding roads.Nearby places
Kernville (6.5 miles, approx. 15 minutes), Bakersfield (approx. 1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Kernville, located 6.5 miles south of the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
8 reviews
Thunderbird Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users find Thunderbird Group Campground to be a peaceful location with basic, well-maintained amenities. Many appreciate the picturesque surroundings and proximity to activities like hiking and water sports.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the clean and well-stocked portable toilets, access to the river, and beautiful stargazing opportunities. One review noted, "Rangers came by the next morning and were very pleasant,"...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include limited shade, sandy terrain that requires extra stakes for tents, and the absence of drinking water. One user found the campground "very primitive."
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as none is available on-site. Extra tent stakes are recommended due to sandy ground conditions. Check fire restrictions before arrival.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during the summer, though it can get hot with limited shade. Winter visits are less frequent, likely due to colder temperatures.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Camping here was fantastic. I was quite worried about the river being too high to safely swim, but there was an offshoot with calmer waters 5 minutes away from site 2," - Casey Hodgson. "The...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2 offers proximity to a calmer river offshoot for swimming, as noted by one user. Site 3 was described as "Great place!!" by another reviewer.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not addressed in user reviews.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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