The section of the Kern River below the Lake Isabella dams to the base of the canyon is known as the Lower Kern. The canyon is narrow, steep and dry with occasional foothill pines, buckeye, oaks, and grasses. The river’s edge supports large sycamores and willows. The close proximity to Bakersfield makes the Lower Kern very popular with residents. For health and safety reasons there is no overnight camping allowed in the lower canyon except for Black Gulch dispersed area, and Hobo and Sandy Flat…
Lower Kern River is primarily first-come, first-served. Use the availability view to gauge how busy it is before you go.
See the map for Lower Kern River's exact location and directions.
Pick your dates on the availability calendar, then reserve through the official booking link. You can also set an alert and we'll notify you if a sold-out date opens up.