Kern River Ranger District

Area Status: Open

The Kern River Ranger District offers something for every recreationist. The district covers 663,000 acres and offers 25 campgrounds and 10 developed day-use areas. Over 578 miles of trails, including 68 miles through designated wilderness, span across forested mountains, high desert, and along rivers. Come out and explore!  

Gateway to the Giant Sequoias

  • Even though no giant sequoia groves are on the Kern River Ranger District, the Trail of 100 Giants is just up the road on the Western Divide Ranger District and offers a paved interpretive trail to view and learn about these majestic trees. Please note that this trail is only accessible seasonally, usually from May - November.

The Pacific Crest Trail crosses the District in two locations (click here to go to www.pcta.org, official site for the Pacific Crest Trail Association)

At a Glance

Current Conditions: For Kern River Ranger District recreation information, please call (760) 376-3781
Operational Hours:
 
Kern River Ranger District In-person and Virtual Services Available
 
Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
 

11380 Kernville Road, Kernville, CA 93238                        
Ranger Station (760) 376-3781      
 
 
Reservations: Most campgrounds accept reservations at Recreation.gov, or call 877-444-6777.

General Information

General Notes:

Unique Recreation Opportunities on the Kern River Ranger District

  • When conditions permit, visitors can ski, snowboard, or tube at the Alta Sierra Ski Resort 
  • OHV enthusiasts can explore the forest using single-track trails, or have some fun at the Cyrus Canyon OHV Park. Search and download Motor Vehicle Use Maps for trail types and locations.
  • Lake Isabella has three marinas in operation during the summer that rent boats, kayaks, and other gear
  • Five commercial whitewater outfitter guides are available to provide trips on the mighty Kern River 
  • Kernville has a private airport operating on Forest Service land 
  • Sportsmen can hone their rifle, shotgun, and bow skills at the Cyrus Canyon Shooting Range
  • Visitors can learn about local native cultures at the Nuui Cunni Native American Intertribal Culture Center

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Areas for Mountain Biking at Kern River Ranger District

Campground Camping

Areas for Campground Camping at Kern River Ranger District

Group Camping

Areas for Group Camping at Kern River Ranger District

Dispersed Camping

Areas for Dispersed Camping at Kern River Ranger District

Cabin Rentals

Areas for Cabin Rentals at Kern River Ranger District

Lake and Pond Fishing

Areas for Lake and Pond Fishing at Kern River Ranger District

River and Stream Fishing

Areas for River and Stream Fishing at Kern River Ranger District

Day Hiking

Areas for Day Hiking at Kern River Ranger District

Backpacking

Areas for Backpacking at Kern River Ranger District

Horse Camping

Areas for Horse Camping at Kern River Ranger District

Horse Riding

Areas for Horse Riding at Kern River Ranger District

OHV Camping

Areas for OHV Camping at Kern River Ranger District

OHV Road Riding

Areas for OHV Road Riding at Kern River Ranger District

OHV Trail Riding

Areas for OHV Trail Riding at Kern River Ranger District

Interpretive Areas

Areas for Interpretive Areas at Kern River Ranger District

Picnicking

Areas for Picnicking at Kern River Ranger District

Group Picnicking

Areas for Group Picnicking at Kern River Ranger District

Boating - Motorized

Areas for Boating - Motorized at Kern River Ranger District

XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Areas for XC Skiing/Snowshoeing at Kern River Ranger District

Snowmobiling

Areas for Snowmobiling at Kern River Ranger District

Alerts & Warnings

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Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
35.75579

  Longitude : 
-118.42706