Forks Of The Kern Trailhead
33E20 Trailhead is on road 20S67 off the Lloyd Meadow Road (22S82). The trail drops immediately down to the Kern River, crossing the Little Kern River. There is NO BRIDGE crossing the Little Kern, and extreme caution should be used. Crossing should not be attempted during spring snow runoff. Trail travels on the west bank of the Kern River for several miles to Kern Flat (a large meadow near the river), then crosses the Big Kern River on a bridge 1.5 miles above Kern Flat. Trail continues on to the Cannell Meadow District of the Sequoia National Forest. Campsites and fishing are available from the Little Kern Crossing to the Big Kern Bridge.
Forks of the Kern Trailhead and Trail
General Information
ALERT: Incidence of human-bear conflicts can happen in this area. Bears that successfully obtain human food can become easily habituated. Please help protect yourself, other visitors, and bears by using bear resistant food storage canisters while visiting this area. All items with a scent can attract bears and should be properly stored. Bear canisters are the only effective and proven method of preventing bears from getting human food.
Due to recent fires and flooding, the trail may have washouts, downed trees, and intermittently disappear.
June 15 - Nov 15 weather dependent.
Open 24 hours/day
Depending on fire restrictions and fire danger, campfires may be prohibited for dispersed camping. Golden Trout Wilderness required for overnight stays within the wilderness boundary.
If hiking into the Golden Trout Wilderness and spending the night, a Golden Trout Wilderness Pass is required.
Forks of the Kern permit required for rafting.
Campfire permits are required for campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves. Permits are available at your local Ranger Station or online at preventwildfireca.org
No fees are required for this site
No Fees
6-foot leash requirement. Dogs are allowed in the Sequoia National Forest but not in the Sequoia National Park.
Contact Name: Western Divide Ranger District
Contact Phone: 559-539-2607
Address: 32588 Highway 190 Springville, CA 93265
Phone: 559-539-2607
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 36.13789469
Longitude: -118.4559552
Elevation
5700 ft
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Vault toilet(s)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.
