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Recreation Region: Kern River Ranger District

Thunderbird Group Campground

Thunderbird group site, located approximately 4-5 miles north of Kernville, offers group camping along the Wild and Scenic Upper Kern River, and is available for reservations.

 

Current Conditions
For Kern River Ranger District recreation information, please call 760-376-3781.

Reservations

This site can be reserved by calling Toll Free 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639 or TDD 877-833-6777) or on-line at http://www.recreation.gov

General Information

ExplorUS
All developed campground areas on the Forest operate under a concessionaire permit with ExplorUS. For additional information, please visit About Explorus - Hospitality Management (goexplorus.com), or call their home office at (661) 702-1420, or their Lake Isabella office at 760-376-1269 or 559-745-4209.

May - September 

Campfire permits are required for campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves. Permits are available at your local Ranger Station or online at preventwildfireca.org

Camping and campfires within 25 feet of the water's edge is prohibited due to the Wild and Scenic Designation. Glass containers prohibited.

Depending on fire restrictions and fire danger, campfires may be prohibited for camping.

  • Thunderbird Group #1 (30 person max):  $127/night
  • Thunderbird Group #2 (12 person max):  $57/night
  • Thunderbird Group #3 (12 person max):  $57/night

Maximum trailer length 45’          

6' leash requirements. 

Contact Name: Kern River Ranger District

Contact Phone: 760-376-3781

Photo of the Kern River Ranger District Office

Address: 11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238
Phone: 760-376-3781
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Memorial - Labor Day weekend 7 days a week. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov

Facility and Amenity Information

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.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are available at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated July 22nd, 2025