Sherman Pass Road
Sherman Pass Road (22S05) provides access to the Kern Plateau. This scenic route stretches from the North Fork of the Kern River in the west, east to the high desert, connecting to Highway 395. The road is open from late May or early June, depending on snow, until the snow falls in late fall or winter. From the west, this road climbs out of the Upper Kern River Canyon to Sherman Pass and descends to the east side of the Kern Plateau and then to the Mojave Desert. At the summit of Sherman Pass, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Sierra Crest and Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states. As the road winds downward across the plateau on the east side, the forest changes from red fir to mixed conifer and to pinyon pine.
Reservations
General Information
- No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out
- Know Before You Go! It is your responsibility to plan accordingly and know the closures and restrictions for the area you plan to visit.
- The road is closed during the winter to passenger vehicles.
May-November
Campfire permits are required for campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves. Permits are available at your local Ranger Station or online at preventwildfireca.org
Depending on fire restrictions and fire danger, campfires may be prohibited.
6' leash required.
Contact Name: Kern River Ranger District
Contact Phone: 760-376-3781
Address: 11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238
Phone: 760-376-3781
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov
Getting There
Elevation
9,200
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Human Waste: Proper disposal of human waste is crucial. Human waste can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a dispersed camping area for future users. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200 feet away from water sources and dispersed campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Be prepared to bring your own drinking water or have a water filter. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
