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34 campgrounds and RV Parks near Hillcrest, CA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
34 campgrounds
2433 campsites
236 RVs available for delivery
From $25/night
Own an RV? Earn up to $31,284/year.
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Best campgrounds near Hillcrest, CA
Shady Haven RV Park
Bakersfield, CA (2 miles away)
$$$$$
(132 sites)
+8
Bakersfield Travel Park
Bakersfield, CA (3 miles away)
$$$$$
(70 sites)
+4
Bakersfield River Run RV Park
Bakersfield, CA (5 miles away)
$$$$$
(123 sites)
+6
Orange Grove RV Park
Bakersfield, CA (5 miles away)
(242 sites)
Orange Grove RV Park and Resort
Bakersfield, CA (5 miles away)
$$$$$
(206 sites)
+7
Bakersfield KOA
Bakersfield, CA (7 miles away)
Bakersfield RV Resort
Bakersfield, CA (7 miles away)
$$$$$
(215 sites)
+6
Rosedale Village RV Campland
Bakersfield, CA (11 miles away)
$$$$$
(156 sites)
+6
Bear Mountain RV Resort
Bakersfield, CA (12 miles away)
$$$$$
(135 sites)
Indian Hill Ranch RV Park
Tehachapi, CA (32 miles away)
$$$$$
(37 sites)
Haven RV Park
Lake Isabella, CA (33 miles away)
$$$$$
(25 sites)
+4
Mountain Valley RV Park
Tehachapi, CA (35 miles away)
$$$$$
(37 sites)
+4
Most common amenities
Toilets Pet friendly Dump station Showers Tables Internet Laundry Grills Pool Cable TV
Campgrounds near Hillcrest, California
Hillcrest is a small community in Kern County, California, just north of Bakersfield and within reach of the Sierra Nevada foothills and the Kern River corridor. The area works well as an RV base for travelers who want valley convenience along with quick access to mountain and lake recreation. Full-hookup parks within a short drive of Hillcrest include Shady Haven RV Park, Bakersfield Travel Park, Orange Grove RV Park and Resort, Bakersfield River Run RV Park, and Bakersfield KOA, all clustered around the Bakersfield metro area with easy access to Highway 99 and State Route 178.
Private RV parks in this corridor typically offer pull-through sites, 30/50-amp service, dump stations, laundry, and Wi-Fi. For public-land options, the Sequoia National Forest and Lake Isabella sit about an hour east on SR 178 and add forest, river, and reservoir camping to the mix. The combination gives renters a flexible itinerary without long repositioning drives between valley and mountain stays.
Things to do near Hillcrest
The Kern River corridor east of Hillcrest is the main draw. Whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Upper Kern River are popular, along with fishing on the Wild and Scenic stretch. Anglers also fish Lake Isabella, and boaters and rafters use the lake as a launching point. Hikers can pick up the Cannell Meadow National Recreation Trail just north of Kernville, which stretches 11.5 miles through mixed pine and fir forest to Cannell Meadow and a historic Forest Service cabin. Day trips reach the Trail of 100 Giants and other giant sequoia groves in Giant Sequoia National Monument. Back in town, Bakersfield offers the Kern County Museum, the CALM zoo, and the downtown arts district on rest days between outdoor outings.
Camping spots and RV parks near Hillcrest, CA
Seasonal patterns near Hillcrest
- spring
March - May
75° / 52°F 15 mmMild and dry; comfortable for valley RV camping.
- summer
June - August
95° / 68°F 1 mmHot and dry; elevated wildfire risk in forests.
- fall
September - November
79° / 54°F 9 mmWarm days, cool nights; higher forest sites begin closing.
- winter
December - February
59° / 43°F 35 mmWettest season; tule fog common in the valley.
The Bakersfield-area climate is arid subtropical, with mild, relatively rainy winters and very hot, sunny summers. Valley summers run hot and dry, so RV renters typically rely on shore power for air conditioning and head uphill toward the Kern River and Lake Isabella for cooler temperatures and water-based recreation. Spring and fall are the most comfortable windows for valley camping, with warm days and cool nights.
Winter is the wet season. Precipitation is scarce overall, although winter can bring periods of unsettled weather, and tule fog can form in the valley. Higher Kern River Ranger District campgrounds operate seasonally; some forest campgrounds in the area close for the winter and reopen in late spring. Lake-elevation campgrounds such as those on Lake Isabella generally stay open year round. Wildfire risk peaks in late summer and early fall, and fire restrictions or temporary closures can affect Sequoia National Forest sites, so check current conditions before departure.
Top Hosts near Hillcrest, CA
Daniel21 trips - Joined Sep 2024 - Superhost
Great person to work with. Very flexing and willing to work with. Communicates clear and honest. Will be doing it again.
Saul J. - Aug 2026
Great hosts, and so beautiful!! Had the best time! I ordered for a delivery and before I even arrived they had it set up and ready to go. My family had the best experience and for that I'm truly greatful! 10 out of 10 recommend!
Ramon O. - Aug 2026
MT
Matthew11 trips - Joined Apr 2024 - Superhost
We used Matt’s RV for three nights outside of Sequoia National Park. Matt set it up before we arrived with mats laid out (a mat lined with twinkle lights) and AC on, communicating with us the entire day and trip for whatever we needed. He was extremely pleasant to interact with and we so enjoyed the cozy trailer! Felt new and clean (modern) and the bed was comfier than our own. Also - blackout blinds which was PERFECT for our little one taking naps throughout the day. The heat was brutal at our location and the AC was so helpful. Fresh towels and sheets were a plus as well. Very homey overall and felt so supported. We had a blast with our one year old exploring the campsite and national park and would rent from him again if the occasion were to arise!
Hannah D. - Aug 2026
Matthew’s trailer was pristine and worked great for our family with 2 small kids. Communicating with Matthew was easy and fast.
Ryan M. - Jul 2026
How to book campgrounds near Hillcrest
Private RV parks around Bakersfield, including Shady Haven RV Park, Bakersfield Travel Park, Orange Grove RV Park and Resort, Bakersfield River Run RV Park, and Bakersfield KOA, take reservations directly through their own websites or by phone. Pull-through and full-hookup sites for larger Class A and fifth-wheel rentals book up first on holiday weekends, so reserve early.
For public-land camping in the Sequoia National Forest, most developed sites are reservable through Recreation.gov, with a rolling six-month booking window. Reservations can be made by calling 1-877-444-6777 or online at recreation.gov. Camp 9 at Lake Isabella offers over 100 single campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis, which is useful when reservable sites are full.
What to expect
RV parks in the Bakersfield area, including Shady Haven RV Park, Bakersfield Travel Park, Orange Grove RV Park and Resort, Bakersfield River Run RV Park, and Bakersfield KOA, generally offer full hookups, paved or gravel pads, laundry, restrooms with showers, and Wi-Fi. Pet rules vary, so confirm breed and leash policies at booking.
Forest campgrounds along the Kern River are more rustic. Expect vault toilets, drinking water at most sites, picnic tables and campfire rings, and no hookups or showers. Several Kern River sites have RV length limits in the 25 to 30 foot range, so verify your rig will fit. Cell coverage thins quickly east of Lake Isabella. Camping on the National Forest is limited to a total of 14 days in any 30 day period.
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Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Hillcrest, CA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Hillcrest, CA?
RV rental in Hillcrest, CA is an affordable way to explore Kern County compared to hotels in Bakersfield or Lake Isabella. Travel trailers typically run $90 to $160 per night, campervans around $125 to $200, and Class C motorhomes range from $175 to $300 nightly. You can save by booking midweek and avoiding peak Kern River rafting season in late spring. Many Hillcrest hosts also discount weekly stays by 10 to 20 percent. Pro tip: filter by Instant Book and bundle add-ons like kitchen kits or camping chairs to score a cheap RV rental in Hillcrest without sacrificing comfort.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Hillcrest%2C%20CaliforniaWhat license do I need to rent an RV in Hillcrest?
A regular California driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Hillcrest, CA, no commercial license or RV endorsement is required, even for a 30-foot Class C motorhome. RVezy approved drivers are generally 25 or older, and you'll upload your license through the platform so it can be verified before pickup. Visiting from outside the US? Bring your home country license plus an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your local auto club, usually under $25. Most first-time renters are surprised how quickly verification wraps up, often within a few hours of booking.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs insurance and roadside assistance included with my Hillcrest RV rental?
Yes, every RV rental in Hillcrest, CA includes an RVezy protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can drive Highway 178 toward the Kern River with confidence. The protection plan covers physical damage to the RV during your trip, and you choose your coverage tier during checkout, not the host. Roadside assistance covers flat tires, lockouts, jump starts, fuel delivery, and towing. Pro tip: pick your protection tier based on how far you're driving, longer trips through the Sequoia foothills usually warrant a higher tier for added peace of mind.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat happens if I need to cancel my Hillcrest RV booking?
Booking is low-risk because RVezy sets the cancellation policy, not individual hosts, and every reservation includes a grace period after booking when you can cancel for a full refund. Beyond that, your refund depends on how far out you cancel. If a host cancels, you'll receive a refund or travel credit. The full cancellation details are shown at checkout before you pay. Because Hillcrest sits in a region that occasionally sees fire-season road closures, this flexibility matters. Pro tip: book early to lock in the best rigs for summer Kern River trips, you can always adjust later if plans shift.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a Hillcrest RV trip?
Absolutely, pet-friendly RV rental Hillcrest options are plentiful, just toggle the Pet-Friendly filter when searching. Many local hosts welcome dogs (sometimes cats too) for a small cleaning fee, usually $25 to $75. Once you're on the road, your pup will love nearby trails: Keysville Recreation Area along the Kern River allows leashed dogs, and Sequoia National Forest's dog-friendly trails near Greenhorn Summit are a short drive away. Note that Sequoia National Park itself restricts pets on trails, so plan forest land instead. Pro tip: message the host before booking to confirm dog size and breed are a good fit, most are flexible if you ask.
fs.usda.gov/sequoiaCan the RV be delivered to my campsite near Hillcrest?
Yes, RV delivery in Hillcrest is one of the most popular options on RVezy, especially for first-time renters who'd rather skip driving a big rig down Highway 155's switchbacks. Many local hosts will deliver and fully set up your motorhome or travel trailer at popular spots like Lake Isabella, Kern River campgrounds, or a private property. Delivery fees usually run $2 to $5 per mile from the host's location, with some offering flat rates within Kern County. The host levels the rig, hooks up power and water, and walks you through everything. Pro tip: filter by Delivery and message hosts to confirm they service your specific campground.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106514-Delivery-optionsHow far can I drive on a Hillcrest RV trip, and is unlimited mileage available?
You've got real range from Hillcrest, CA. Many hosts offer 100 to 150 free miles per night, and some list RV rental with unlimited mileage, perfect for longer Hillcrest RV trip plans. From Hillcrest, you can reach Lake Isabella in about 25 minutes, Sequoia National Park's Giant Forest in roughly 2.5 hours, Bakersfield in 40 minutes, Los Angeles in about 2.5 hours, and Death Valley in around 4 hours. Extra mileage typically costs $0.30 to $0.45 per mile if you go over. Pro tip: map your full route before booking and compare two or three listings, the mileage allowance can swing your total cost more than the nightly rate.
nps.gov/seki/index.htmWhere are the best campgrounds near Hillcrest, CA?
You're spoiled for choice. The best campgrounds near Hillcrest include Camp James Kernville (full hookups, riverside sites, family pool), Hungry Gulch Campground at Lake Isabella (lakefront, operated by the Sequoia National Forest), Tillie Creek Campground (shaded sites near the lake's north shore), and Headquarters Campground along the Kern River for whitewater access. For a quieter option, try Greenhorn Mountain County Park up at 6,000 feet, cool even in July. Most sites accept rigs up to 30 to 35 feet. Pro tip: Forest Service sites book through Recreation.gov up to six months ahead, and Kern River summer weekends sell out fast, so lock dates in early.
recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2725When is the best time of year for an RV trip from Hillcrest?
Hillcrest sits in the southern Sierra foothills, so the sweet spot is April through June and September through early November, when daytime highs are 65 to 85°F and nights cool into the 40s and 50s. July and August get hot (often 95 to 105°F in the valley below), though higher-elevation campgrounds like Greenhorn stay 15 to 20 degrees cooler. Winter is mild at Hillcrest's elevation but brings snow above 5,000 feet, and chain controls on Highway 155 are common December through March. Pro tip: target late May for peak Kern River rafting flows, or mid-October when the cottonwoods turn gold and campgrounds empty out.
weather.gov/hnx/I've never driven an RV before. Is renting in Hillcrest a good idea?
Yes, first time renting an RV in Hillcrest, CA is genuinely doable, and a lot of guests do exactly that. Every host provides a full walkthrough at pickup: how to operate the slide-outs, run the water pump, switch the fridge between propane and electric, dump tanks, and back into a site. Many hosts even text or video-call mid-trip if you have questions. If you're nervous about driving narrow mountain roads like Highway 155 to Alta Sierra, choose a smaller campervan or travel trailer, or book delivery so the rig is already set up. Pro tip: do your first night at Lake Isabella, it's close, flat, and easy to navigate.
dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/What if something goes wrong with the RV during my trip?
You're covered. Every Hillcrest RV rental includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the RVezy protection plan, so a flat tire on Highway 178, a dead battery at Lake Isabella, or a lockout at Kernville is one phone call away. Roadside help dispatches local providers for towing, tire changes, jump starts, fuel delivery, and lockout service. For mechanical questions, your host is your first call, they know their rig best, and most respond within minutes. RVezy's support team is also available before, during, and after your trip. Pro tip: save the roadside number and your host's number to your phone before leaving the driveway, cell service drops in parts of the Kern Canyon.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat are the best RV road trips from Hillcrest, CA?
An RV road trip from Hillcrest opens up some of California's best scenery. Top routes include: Hillcrest to Sequoia National Park via Highway 155 and 245 (about 2.5 hours to Giant Forest), Hillcrest to Death Valley National Park via Highway 178 and 14 (around 4 hours), Hillcrest to Yosemite via Highway 99 and 41 (about 4.5 hours), and a Pacific Coast run to Pismo Beach in roughly 3 hours. For a shorter trip, the Kern River Canyon scenic byway is right out your door. Cross-border travel into Mexico isn't permitted on RVezy rentals, but the entire western US is fair game. Pro tip: build in an extra day, California distances always feel longer in an RV.
visitcalifornia.com/places-to-visit/How much should I budget for fuel on a Hillcrest RV trip?
Fuel is the biggest variable, but it's manageable. Class C motorhomes near Hillcrest average 8 to 10 mpg, campervans get 15 to 20 mpg, and travel trailers depend on your tow vehicle (typically 10 to 14 mpg). California gas prices in Kern County usually run $0.30 to $0.60 below LA prices, so fill up in Lake Isabella or Bakersfield before heading into Sequoia, where prices spike. For a 4-day, 400-mile loop in a Class C, budget roughly $200 to $275 in fuel. Pro tip: GasBuddy and the Costco in Bakersfield consistently have the cheapest fuel in the region, top off there on your way out of town.
energy.ca.gov/data-reports/energy-almanac/transportation-energy/gasolineHow far in advance should I book campgrounds near Hillcrest?
Book early and you'll get the prime spots. Sequoia National Forest campgrounds around Lake Isabella and the Kern River release reservations on Recreation.gov up to six months in advance, and summer weekends (Memorial Day through Labor Day) often fill within days of opening. Private parks like Camp James Kernville take bookings directly and sell out 2 to 4 months ahead for July and August. For shoulder-season trips in April, May, October, or November, two to four weeks ahead is usually fine. Pro tip: if you strike out on weekends, target Sunday-through-Thursday stays, you'll find availability, lower rates, and far fewer crowds at the same campgrounds.
recreation.gov/What are driving conditions like around Hillcrest?
Driving around Hillcrest, CA is straightforward with a little awareness. Highway 178 through the Kern River Canyon is scenic but winding, take it slow in a larger motorhome and watch for cyclists. Highway 155 over Greenhorn Summit climbs to 6,100 feet with tight switchbacks, fine for rigs under 30 feet but not ideal for first-timers in a Class A. Winter brings occasional snow and chain controls above 4,000 feet from December through March. Summer afternoons can bring thunderstorms in the high country. Avoid driving narrow forest roads after dark when deer are most active. Pro tip: if mountain driving makes you nervous, stick to Lake Isabella via Highway 178 east, it's the smoothest route from Hillcrest.
roads.dot.ca.gov/What amenities will I find at campgrounds near Hillcrest?
Most campgrounds near Hillcrest offer solid amenities. Private parks like Camp James Kernville and Rivernook Campground have full hookups (water, electric, sewer), Wi-Fi, showers, and laundry. Sequoia National Forest sites like Hungry Gulch, Tillie Creek, and Headquarters typically offer potable water spigots, vault or flush toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, but no hookups, so you'll boondock on your RV's tanks. Dump stations are available at Lake Isabella (near the main marina) and most private parks for a small fee, usually $10 to $15 for non-guests. Pro tip: fill your fresh water tank before leaving Hillcrest or Kernville, some forest campgrounds have hand-pump-only water that's slow to fill a 40-gallon tank.
fs.usda.gov/recmain/sequoia/recreationWhat's included inside a typical Hillcrest RV rental?
You'll be set up for comfort. Most motorhome rentals in Hillcrest come with a full kitchen (fridge/freezer, stove, microwave, sink), a bathroom with toilet and shower, a queen or king bed plus convertible dinette and bunks, air conditioning, a propane furnace, and seatbelts for every traveling passenger. Many include a TV, Bluetooth stereo, outdoor awning, and a generator for off-grid power. Wi-Fi varies, some hosts include a mobile hotspot, others don't, so confirm if you need to work remotely. Linens, kitchen kits, and camping chairs are often available as add-ons for $25 to $75. Pro tip: campervan rentals in Hillcrest are perfect for couples who want simplicity, while Class C motorhomes suit families of four to six.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Hillcrest%2C%20CaliforniaWhat add-ons and pickup options should I know about?
Hillcrest hosts offer flexible options to customize your trip. Common add-ons include kitchen kits ($30 to $60), linen and towel packages ($25 to $50), camping chairs and tables ($10 to $20), portable BBQs, generators, bike racks, and Starlink Wi-Fi on some rigs. Pickup is usually at the host's home in Hillcrest or nearby Lake Isabella, with delivery available for an additional fee. Mileage policies vary: many hosts give 100 free miles per night, some offer unlimited, and overages typically cost $0.35 per mile. Pickup windows are usually 1 to 4 PM with 11 AM return the next morning. Pro tip: ask about a late return, hosts often grant a free extra hour or two if no one's booked after you.
dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-industry-services/How does payment and the security deposit work for a Hillcrest RV rental?
Payment is straightforward and fully handled through RVezy, never directly with the host. You'll pay your rental total at booking using a credit or debit card, which covers the nightly rate, protection plan, taxes, and any add-ons. A refundable security deposit (typically $500 to $1,500 depending on the rig) is held separately from your booking payment and released after the trip assuming no damage or policy violations. To avoid issues, do a thorough walkaround with the host at pickup and dropoff, take photos, and stick to the mileage and generator hours in your agreement. Pro tip: use a credit card with a high limit, the hold can temporarily reduce your available balance.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksCan I take my Hillcrest RV rental in winter or to snowy areas?
Yes, winter RV camping Hillcrest trips are absolutely possible and beautifully quiet. At Hillcrest's elevation (around 3,500 feet), winters are mild with occasional dustings, but nearby Greenhorn Summit, Alta Sierra, and Sequoia National Park get real snow. Many local hosts equip their rigs with heated holding tanks, propane furnaces, and snow-rated tires, just filter for these features or ask the host directly. Always carry chains from November through April when heading above 4,000 feet, Caltrans enforces chain controls on Highway 155 and 178. Pro tip: Lake Isabella stays accessible year-round and Camp James Kernville is open in winter with full hookups, making it an easy, scenic cold-weather basecamp for your first snowy RV adventure.
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