Kirch Flat Group Campground

Star4.57
73 reviews
29688 Auberry Rd, Prather, CA 93651
Peace & QuietSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,000 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Sierra National Forest 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
Kirch Flat Group Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Reservation fee is $8. The campground is currently free for group tent areas during peak seasons.
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
559-855-5355SM.FS.sierranfinfo@usda.gov
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What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 73 reviews

78 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quiet

"User reviews for Kirch Flat Group Campground are generally positive, highlighting its scenic views, access to the Kings River, and the quiet, off-the-grid experience. However, the lack of amenities such as running water and cell service is a common concern."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

29688 Auberry Rd, Prather, CA 93651

Kirch Flat Group Campground

29688 Auberry Rd, Prather, CA 93651

Driving directionsTake Belmont Avenue east from Fresno. Follow Belmont Avenue until it turns into Trimmer Springs Road. Continue on Trimmer Springs Road past the community of Piedra and all the way around Pine Flat Reservoir. Campground is located at the extreme east end of the lake where the Kings River merges into Pine Flat Reservoir (dependent on water level). Driving time from Fresno is approximately 1 1/2 hours.
The drive is slow-going. Roads to the campground consist of paved roads, but the campground is remote and distant from major population centers. Users describe the area as 'very remote' and challenging due to the lack of cell coverage and proximity to any services.
Nearby places
Sanger: 45 miles (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Sanger, CA, approximately 45 miles away, offers gas, groceries, camping supplies, restaurants, and other essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Kirch Flat Group Campground

Time your visit wisely to unlock Kirch Flat's full potential. While summer transforms the canyon into a sun-drenched paradise that can test your heat tolerance, spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons—when comfortable days invite endless exploration and cool evenings gather groups around crackling campfires. Winter and early spring reward the adventurous with profound solitude, where you might have the entire river bend to yourself as morning mist rises from the water.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Summer offers swimming but can be very hot; popular but heat is a drawback.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 5% in CA

Fall offers golden scenery and quieter conditions; reviewers note quieter off-season stays.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 7% in CA

Spring highlighted for rafting, wildflowers and optimal conditions in reviews and overview.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5
Top 23% in CA

Open year-round; winter is quieter and secluded though lacks winter-sport amenities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1 to December 31 (year-round peak season for group camping).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round.
  • Current Alerts: Campground closures may occur occasionally. User reviews mention temporary closures of parts of the campground.

About Kirch Flat Group Campground

Nestled along the pristine waters of the Kings River at 1,000 feet elevation, Kirch Flat Group Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Sierra Nevada foothills experience. This secluded retreat features tent camping areas thoughtfully positioned beneath ancient oak canopies, with vault toilets and designated group sites perfect for gatherings under starlit skies. Whether you're drawn by world-class rafting rapids, trophy fishing spots, or trails that wind through wildflower meadows, this remote sanctuary delivers raw natural beauty without the crowds—just you, your companions, and the timeless rhythm of the river.
Kirch Flat Group Campground caters to tent camping and small RVs, and also provides a group camping area.
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Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay is 14 days.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Kirch Flat Group Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around the scenic Kings River. Popular activities include rafting, fishing, swimming, and hiking.
HikingSeveral hiking trails are accessible in the area, including a trail upstream along the Kings River leading to the wild and scenic portion of the river. The trailhead is located beyond Garnet Dike.
FishingFishing is popular along the Kings River, designated as a trout stream. One reviewer noted, 'Great place to swim with my boys and do a bit of fishing, designated trout stream so need a stamp on your license.'
SwimmingThe Kings River provides designated swimming areas. Visitors are advised to use caution due to strong currents.
BoatingRafting on the Kings River is a highlight, with Class III and IV rapids available during the season from late April to mid-July. 'The Kings River offers an enjoyable ten-mile rafting run,' according to the overview.
Wildlife viewingWildlife, such as small grey foxes and cattle, can be observed in the area. 'Be prepared for cattle wandering and grazing through the area and sometimes campground,' noted a reviewer.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRattlesnakes and poison oak are common in the area. "Watch out for rattlesnakes and poison oak."
Active AlertsCampground closures may occur occasionally. User reviews mention temporary closures of parts of the campground.
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 Kirch Flat Group Campground

Reviews

4.6
73 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Kirch Flat Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Kirch Flat Group Campground are generally positive, highlighting its scenic views, access to the Kings River, and the quiet, off-the-grid experience. However, the lack of amenities such as running water and cell service is a common concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 73 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers praised the campground's natural beauty, the proximity to the Kings River, and the availability of activities such as rafting and fishing. Many appreciated the 'quiet and serene' atmosphere...
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Based on 73 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of amenities like running water and trash collection, stinky vault toilets, and the remote location requiring a long drive to reach essential services.
Based on 73 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water and trash bags. Avoid the area during peak rafting season if you prefer solitude. Be prepared for hot weather in summer and watch out for rattlesnakes and poison oak.
Based on 73 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is popular in spring and early summer for rafting, while fall and winter offer a quieter, more secluded experience. Summer can be very hot, and visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
Based on 73 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Wonderful spot. No electricity, water, or cell reception, but free and beautiful.' (James Crall) 2. 'Great place to swim with my boys and do a bit of fishing, designated trout stream so need a...
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Based on 73 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites #1-9 were mentioned as being clean but lacking trash cans nearby. Locations close to the river are favored for their easy access to swimming and fishing.
Based on 73 reviews

Accessibility Features

Vault toilets, walkways, and parking areas are accessible. No specific complaints or praises regarding accessibility were noted.
Based on 73 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. No specific reviews from pet owners were noted.
Based on 73 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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