Camp James - Kern River Camping

As the proud owners of a new 26-foot Forest River Trailer, we hit the road last weekend for an RV adventure in the Sequoia National Forest. Our destination? The Kern River — one of a few places we'd never been. And wow — this place is amazing!

Since we have two young children, safety was of paramount importance, so instead of spending the week in a questionable public campground, we set our sights on Camp James, a Kern River campground that's clearly designed for families.

Kern River camping was a blast! Our site, #64, was right on the creek — just steps from the Class III Little Las Vegas rapids on the Kern. The creek turned out to be great fun for the kids. They'd bring their inner tubes to the top of the stream, and then float down the "Lazy River" to the river's mouth.

Camp James' bathrooms are on the oldish side, but very clean. (Bring your own soap, towels, biodegradable toilet covers and shampoo/conditioner).

If you like rainbow trout, Camp James has plenty of great Kern River fishing spots right on the grounds. While we were there, guests were pulling in 4-pounders along sites 67, 85 and above sites 74-75.

Although you can buy ice, firewood and ice cream in the Camp James office, a wide variety of groceries are available at the James Sierra Gateway Market — located just up the street. Here you can buy literally everything you need, from s'mores makings, deli sandwiches and supplies, to a wide range of camping accessories, including beer can chicken stands!

What we loved about Camp James was its quiet evening atmosphere. If you're looking for a party, head elsewhere. Quiet time is at 10 p.m., and loud music/barking dogs are not tolerated. Although two pets are permitted per campsite ($5 daily), they must be leashed at all times and enclosed in your tent or RV at night. There is no designated dog run,

This lazy river runs right through the campground. Photo by Veronica Hill.

so be sure to bring along bags and scoops.

IF YOU GO
Camp James is located at 13801 Sierra Way, Kernville, CA. For reservations, call (760) 376-6119 or visit them online at www.CampJames.net

AMENITIES
Camp James Kern River campsites have full hookups with water, electric, sewer, WiFi (a bit spotty at times) and DirecTV. There is 50 amp service available on some sites. A dump station is on site, and blue boys are available from the office. Pay showers and full working restrooms onsite. Fishing weigh station and cleaning area.

Camping check-in is at 2 p.m. or earlier. Check out from the Camp James Kern River camping sites is noon — allowing you plenty of time to sleep in, and then head out. Rates are $30-$45 nightly.

Have you been to Camp James on the Kern River? Share your Camp James reviews with us below!