Thunderbird Group Campground

Star4.34
35 reviews
PO BOX 1640

Quick Facts

3,200 ft

Price

$57 - $127/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Recreation.gov 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
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

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

4.34

Recommended

Based on 35 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."

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Campground Map

PO BOX 1640

Thunderbird Group Campground

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.

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.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season (May–Sept) with good weather, full activities, though can be hot with limited shade.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Early fall (before Sept 13) can be pleasant, but the site closes mid-September limiting fall access.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Late spring (after May 16) offers good conditions; earlier spring is outside reservation window.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed outside its May 16–Sept 13 season; winter visits uncommon.

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.
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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.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Group Sites

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.
HikingHiking 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.
FishingFishing in the Kern River is a popular activity, but specific details about fish species or fishing regulations are not provided.
SwimmingWhile 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.
BoatingKayaking and rafting are highlighted as popular activities on the Upper Kern River.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong river currents pose a safety risk for swimming. Limited shade and sandy conditions may require extra stakes for tents.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Thunderbird Group Campground

Reviews

4.3
35 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
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 35 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,"...
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Based on 35 reviews

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 35 reviews

Pro 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 35 reviews

Seasonal 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 35 reviews

Camper 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...
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Based on 35 reviews

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 35 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not addressed in user reviews.
Based on 35 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There are no reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 35 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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