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35 campgrounds and RV Parks near La Cresta, CA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
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Best campgrounds near La Cresta, CA
Bakersfield River Run RV Park
Bakersfield, CA (4 miles away)
$$$$$
(123 sites)
+6
Shady Haven RV Park
Bakersfield, CA (4 miles away)
$$$$$
(132 sites)
+8
Bakersfield Travel Park
Bakersfield, CA (5 miles away)
$$$$$
(70 sites)
+4
Bakersfield KOA
Bakersfield, CA (7 miles away)
Bakersfield RV Resort
Bakersfield, CA (7 miles away)
$$$$$
(215 sites)
+6
Orange Grove RV Park
Bakersfield, CA (7 miles away)
(242 sites)
Orange Grove RV Park and Resort
Bakersfield, CA (7 miles away)
$$$$$
(206 sites)
+7
Rosedale Village RV Campland
Bakersfield, CA (9 miles away)
$$$$$
(156 sites)
+6
Bear Mountain RV Resort
Bakersfield, CA (13 miles away)
$$$$$
(135 sites)
Haven RV Park
Lake Isabella, CA (34 miles away)
$$$$$
(25 sites)
+4
Indian Hill Ranch RV Park
Tehachapi, CA (34 miles away)
$$$$$
(37 sites)
Lake Isabella RV Resort
Mountain Mesa, CA (37 miles away)
$$$$$
(91 sites)
+9
Most common amenities
Toilets Pet friendly Dump station Showers Tables Internet Laundry Grills Pool Cable TV
Campgrounds near La Cresta
La Cresta is a census-designated place in Kern County, California, bordered on most sides by the city of Bakersfield in the southern San Joaquin Valley. RV travelers use it as a base for Sequoia National Forest, the Kern River corridor, Lake Isabella, and the southern Sierra Nevada, all reached by California State Route 178 east out of town.
The closest RV options are full-hookup parks inside Bakersfield. All developed campground areas on the Sequoia National Forest operate under a concessionaire permit with ExplorUS, so forest camping is generally reserved through Recreation.gov. Bakersfield River Run RV Park and Shady Haven RV Park sit nearest to La Cresta, with Bakersfield Travel Park, Bakersfield KOA, and Bakersfield RV Resort rounding out the in-town choices. These commercial parks suit travelers who want pull-through sites, laundry, Wi-Fi, and easy access to grocery stores and fuel before heading into the mountains.
For a forest setting, the Kern River Ranger District of Sequoia National Forest operates developed campgrounds along the Upper Kern River and around Lake Isabella, roughly an hour northeast on Highway 178.
Things to do near La Cresta
Most trips here pair flat-valley basecamping with day drives into the Sierra. The Kern River, designated Wild and Scenic on its upper stretch, draws whitewater rafters and kayakers from spring snowmelt through midsummer, with commercial outfitters running trips out of Kernville. Lake Isabella offers fishing, swimming, and boat ramps, and the surrounding ridges have hiking and OHV routes. Farther up the canyon, the Trail of 100 Giants in the Giant Sequoia National Monument is an accessible boardwalk through old-growth sequoias. Back in town, families can visit the Kern County Museum, California Living Museum (CALM), and the Kern River Parkway bike path. Tehachapi Loop, an active railroad spiral, is a short drive southeast and popular with kids who like trains.
Camping spots and RV parks near La Cresta, CA
When to visit La Cresta
- spring
March - May
79° / 52°F 14 mmPeak Kern River whitewater and wildflower bloom
- summer
June - August
95° / 66°F 1 mmTriple-digit valley heat, head uphill for cooler sites
- fall
September - November
79° / 54°F 10 mmClear, cooling days, strong hiking window
- winter
December - February
63° / 45°F 37 mmMild valley days, tule fog common, mountain passes closed
The valley floor around La Cresta has a hot-summer arid climate. July is typically the warmest month, with average highs near 98°F, so most RV renters either run hookups for air conditioning in Bakersfield or push uphill to cooler elevations in Sequoia National Forest, where campgrounds along the Upper Kern sit between roughly 2,800 and 6,000 feet.
Spring is the strongest window. March through May is one of the best times of year to visit Bakersfield, bringing mild valley temperatures, wildflower bloom in the Tehachapi foothills, and peak Kern River flows from Sierra snowmelt, when whitewater outfitters run their busiest schedules. Fall, from late September into November, cools quickly and is excellent for hiking and stargazing.
Winter in the valley is mild but can deliver dense tule fog and short bursts of rain. Fog can form in winter across the southern San Joaquin Valley. Mountain roads above Lake Isabella, including Sherman Pass and the Western Divide Highway, close seasonally for snow, so high-country campgrounds are typically inaccessible from late fall through spring.
Top Hosts near La Cresta, 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 La Cresta camping
Bakersfield-area private parks, including Bakersfield River Run RV Park, Shady Haven RV Park, Bakersfield Travel Park, Bakersfield KOA, and Bakersfield RV Resort, take reservations directly through their own websites or by phone, and most accept short-notice bookings outside major holidays. Federal campgrounds in Sequoia National Forest along the Kern River and around Lake Isabella are reserved through Recreation.gov, with a portion of sites held as first-come, first-served. Developed campground areas on the Forest operate under a concessionaire permit with ExplorUS, and sites are reservable up to six months in advance through the Recreation.gov rolling window. Holiday weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day book out early, so reserve as soon as the window opens.
What to expect
Bakersfield commercial parks are paved, level, and built for big rigs, with full hookups, pull-throughs, pools, and laundry. Cell service is reliable and grocery, fuel, and RV repair are close by. Expect highway noise at parks near State Route 99 and Highway 178. In Sequoia National Forest, sites are more rustic: vault toilets, drinking water, picnic tables and campfire rings, with no hookups or showers, and maximum RV lengths vary by campground. Limestone Campground caps RV length at 30 feet, while larger river campgrounds accept longer rigs. Bear-aware food storage, fire restrictions during dry months, and a 14-day stay limit within any 30-day period all apply on Forest Service land. Cell coverage drops off quickly once past Lake Isabella.
Own an RV? Earn up to $31,284/year.
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Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near La Cresta, CA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in La Cresta, CA?
Renting an RV in La Cresta is more affordable than most California destinations, since you're tapping into the Bakersfield-area market rather than pricier coastal hubs. Travel trailers typically run $90 to $160 per night, Class C motorhomes $175 to $275, and larger Class A rigs $250 to $400 plus per night. To score a cheap RV rental in La Cresta, book midweek, travel in the shoulder months of March, April, October, or November, and look at travel trailers if you already have a tow vehicle. Pro tip: use the price filter on RVezy to sort by budget, and message hosts about weekly discounts for longer Kern River Valley adventures.
visitkern.com/What license do I need to rent an RV in La Cresta, CA?
Good news: your regular California driver's license (or any standard US/Canadian license) is all you need to rent an RV in La Cresta. No special RV endorsement, commercial license, or CDL is required by the State of California for the motorhomes and trailers available on RVezy. You must be at least 25 years old, and RVezy verifies your ID directly through the platform when you book, so there's no extra paperwork at pickup. Visiting from abroad? Pair your home license with an International Driving Permit from your local auto association. First-time renters are always surprised how quick the verification process is, usually wrapped up in a few minutes.
dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/educational-materials/fast-facts/recreational-vehicles-and-trailers-ffdl-06/Is RV rental insurance and roadside assistance included in La Cresta?
Yes, every RV rental in La Cresta booked through RVezy comes with a protection plan and 24/7 roadside assistance included, so you can head out toward the Kern River Canyon on Highway 178 with real peace of mind. You choose your coverage level at checkout (basic, standard, or premium), and the plan covers eligible damage to the vehicle during your trip. Roadside assistance handles flats, lockouts, jump starts, and towing any time, day or night. Review the full coverage details on the RVezy insurance and protection page before you book so you know exactly what is included.
rvezy.com/insurance-and-protectionWhat is the cancellation policy if my La Cresta plans change?
Booking your La Cresta RV trip is low risk. RVezy sets a standard cancellation policy on every reservation (not the individual host), which includes a grace period after booking for a full refund of the rental amount. After the grace period, the refund amount depends on how far out your trip is when you cancel. If the host cancels, you receive a full refund or travel credit. You can review the full cancellation policy on the RVezy Help Center before you book so you know exactly how it works for your dates.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in La Cresta?
Absolutely, and dogs love this corner of California. Plenty of hosts offer pet-friendly RV rentals in La Cresta, and you can find them in seconds by toggling the Pet-Friendly filter on RVezy. Kern County is loaded with leash-friendly spots: the Kern River Parkway Trail runs right along the river through Bakersfield, the Panorama Vista Preserve has miles of open trails, and Hart Memorial Park near La Cresta has shaded picnic areas. Up at Lake Isabella, the Lake Isabella/Kern River KOA in Weldon welcomes dogs with a designated pet area. Bring water, a long lead, and booties for hot summer pavement, and your pup will have the time of their life.
kerncounty.com/government/county-administrative-office/animal-servicesCan the RV be delivered to me in La Cresta?
Yes, RV delivery in La Cresta is one of the easiest ways to start your trip, especially if it's your first time renting an RV. Many local hosts will drive the rig straight to your home, a Bakersfield-area campground, Meadows Field Airport (BFL), or even directly to Lake Isabella, then set up the awning, hook up power and water, and walk you through every system. To find delivery-ready listings, just flip on the Delivery filter when searching. Delivery fees vary by distance, but for a stationary trip to a Kern River Valley campsite, it often costs less than the gas and stress of driving an unfamiliar motorhome yourself.
kerncounty.com/How far can I drive on an RV rental from La Cresta?
You can cover serious ground from La Cresta thanks to its central location in California. Each host sets their own mileage policy: many offer 100 to 150 free miles per day, while others provide RV rental with unlimited mileage, which is ideal for longer road trips. Popular drives include Sequoia National Park (about 85 miles north), Lake Isabella (45 miles east on CA-178), Los Angeles (115 miles south on CA-99), Pismo Beach (155 miles west), and Death Valley (around 200 miles). Check the mileage details on each listing before booking, and message the host if you're planning a bigger loop. Many will gladly bundle extra miles into your rate.
parks.ca.gov/Where are the best campgrounds near La Cresta for RV camping?
You have great options for RV camping near La Cresta, from full-hookup parks to riverside Forest Service sites. Lake Isabella / Kern River KOA Holiday in Weldon (about 45 miles east) offers pull-thru sites, a pool, and a splash pad, perfect for families. Rivernook Campground in Kernville sits right on the Kern River with full hookups. For US Forest Service options around Lake Isabella, Tillie Creek and Live Oak on the west shore and Camp 9 and Paradise Cove on the east side are bookable through Recreation.gov. Book Forest Service sites at least a few weeks ahead for summer weekends, since prime riverside spots fill quickly.
recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2592When is the best time of year for an RV trip from La Cresta?
The sweet spot for a La Cresta RV trip is spring (March to May) and fall (September to early November), when daytime highs sit in the comfortable 70s and 80s Fahrenheit and the Kern River runs strong from Sierra snowmelt. Summers are hot desert weather, regularly topping 100°F in Bakersfield and the southern San Joaquin Valley, so plan early morning drives and head up to higher elevations near Kernville (2,700 feet) or the Sequoia National Forest for cooler nights. Winters are mild in the valley with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s, making it one of the few California regions where you can comfortably RV year-round. Pro tip: October weekdays are pure magic, with warm rivers and empty campgrounds.
weather.gov/hnx/I've never driven an RV before. Is this going to be hard?
You're going to be just fine, and most first time renting an RV stories from La Cresta end with people saying it was easier than expected. Every RVezy host gives you a full walkthrough at pickup, covering the engine, generator, slide-outs, water systems, and dump procedure, and you can text them anytime during your trip. Start with a Class C motorhome or a smaller travel trailer if you're nervous; they drive much like a large van or truck. Practice in a wide lot like the Kern County Fairgrounds area before heading onto CA-178 toward Lake Isabella. Stick to the right lane, take wide turns, and remember the speed limit for vehicles towing in California is 55 mph.
dot.ca.gov/programs/traffic-operations/legal-truck-accessWhat happens if something breaks down during my La Cresta RV trip?
You are never on your own. Every RV rental in La Cresta booked through RVezy comes with 24/7 roadside assistance included as part of the protection plan, so a flat tire on Highway 178, a dead battery near Lake Isabella, or a tow out of Kern Canyon is one phone call away. Your host is also your first text-message lifeline for quirks specific to their rig, like a finicky water heater or generator. RVezy customer support is available before, during, and after your trip through the Help Center. Save the roadside assistance number in your phone before pickup, and snap a photo of the RV's license plate and VIN so dispatch can locate you quickly.
rvezy.com/insurance-and-protectionCan I take my La Cresta RV rental across state lines or into Mexico?
Cross-state road trips are very welcome. From La Cresta, popular RV road trips include Las Vegas (about 285 miles east), the Grand Canyon (around 540 miles), and Oregon's coast via US-101. Each host sets their own out-of-state policy, so just message them through the listing to confirm before booking; most California hosts are happy to approve neighboring states. Travel into Mexico is not allowed on any RVezy rental because protection coverage doesn't extend across that border. Canada may be allowed on certain rigs with host approval. Pro tip: a Pacific Coast Highway run from Bakersfield over to Cambria and up through Big Sur is a stunning multi-day loop.
dot.ca.gov/travelWhat should I budget for fuel on a La Cresta RV trip?
Fuel is the second biggest cost after the rental itself, but it's manageable in this region. Class B campervans average 18 to 22 mpg, Class C motorhomes 8 to 12 mpg, and Class A diesels 7 to 10 mpg. Travel trailers depend on your tow vehicle, typically dropping it to 10 to 14 mpg while towing. Bakersfield-area gas prices usually run 30 to 50 cents below the California state average, and Costco on Rosedale Highway and Sam's Club on Gosford Road are the cheapest fill-ups before you head out. For a 4-day, 400-mile loop to Lake Isabella and back in a Class C, expect to spend roughly $180 to $250 on gas. Pro tip: fuel up in Bakersfield before climbing CA-178, since Kern Valley stations charge a premium.
energy.ca.gov/data-reports/energy-almanac/transportation-energy/california-retail-fuel-outlet-annual-reportingHow far in advance should I book a campground near La Cresta?
For the best campgrounds near La Cresta, book as early as you can, especially for summer weekends and holidays. US Forest Service sites at Lake Isabella (Tillie Creek, Pioneer Point, Live Oak, Camp 9) are reservable on Recreation.gov up to six months in advance, and prime riverside spots vanish quickly once the calendar opens. Private parks like the Lake Isabella/Kern River KOA and Rivernook Campground take direct bookings online and fill up two to three months ahead for Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. For midweek spring or fall trips, two weeks is usually plenty. Pro tip: if you strike out, search Hipcamp for private ranchland sites in the Kern River Valley, which often have last-minute openings.
recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2592What are the driving conditions like around La Cresta?
Driving an RV around La Cresta is straightforward, with a few local quirks worth knowing. The valley floor near Bakersfield is flat, with wide highways like CA-99 and CA-58 that handle big rigs easily. Heading east toward Lake Isabella on CA-178 means a beautiful but winding climb through Kern Canyon; take it slow, use lower gears on descents, and watch for falling-rock zones. Summer afternoons can bring strong crosswinds through the Tehachapi Pass on CA-58, so grip the wheel and reduce speed if needed. Tule fog can blanket the valley on winter mornings, reducing visibility, so check Caltrans QuickMap before driving. Pro tip: avoid Kern Canyon Road after dark your first time. The curves are much friendlier in daylight.
quickmap.dot.ca.gov/What amenities will I find at campgrounds near La Cresta?
Campgrounds near La Cresta range from full-service resorts to rustic Forest Service sites, so you can match amenities to your style. The Lake Isabella/Kern River KOA in Weldon offers full hookups (water, sewer, 30/50 amp), Wi-Fi, a pool, splash pad, laundry, propane refills, and a dump station. Lake Isabella RV Park sits across from the lake with full hookups and gated access. US Forest Service campgrounds like Tillie Creek and Camp 9 have flush toilets, showers, potable water spigots, and dump stations, but no hookups, so you'll rely on the RV's tanks. For free dump stations, head to the Camp 9 dump on the east shore of Lake Isabella. Pro tip: top off fresh water before leaving Bakersfield, since some Forest Service spigots get shut off in shoulder season.
fs.usda.gov/recarea/sequoia/recarea/?recid=80132What's included inside a typical motorhome rental in La Cresta?
Motorhome rentals in La Cresta come ready for adventure right out of the gate. Most rigs include a full kitchen (fridge, stove, microwave, sink), a bathroom with toilet and shower, sleeping for 4 to 8 people with real mattresses, climate control with roof-mounted AC and a furnace, plus seatbelted seating for travel. Many hosts also provide a generator for off-grid power, an outdoor awning, a flat-screen TV, and Bluetooth speakers; some include Wi-Fi hotspots or Starlink for remote canyon stays where Verizon and AT&T cell coverage gets thin. Linens, dishes, and cookware are often included or available as add-ons. Pro tip: read the listing's amenity list carefully and message the host if you need specifics like a 50-amp shore plug or a queen-bed configuration.
dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-industry-services/registration-information/recreational-vehicles-and-trailers/What add-ons and pickup options are common with La Cresta RV rentals?
Hosts in La Cresta offer a useful menu of add-ons to customize your trip. Common extras include linens and towel packages ($30 to $75 per trip), kitchen kits, generators (sometimes hourly), bike racks, kayaks and SUPs (perfect for Lake Isabella), portable BBQs, outdoor patio sets, and pet packages. Pickup is usually at the host's location in the Bakersfield area, often within 10 to 20 minutes of La Cresta, with delivery available to your home, Meadows Field Airport (BFL), or directly to your campground for an extra fee. Mileage policies range from 100 free miles per day to unlimited, so compare carefully. Pro tip: bundle delivery plus setup if you're new to RVing. It turns the rig into a stationary cabin with zero driving stress.
flykern.com/How does payment and the security deposit work on an RVezy rental in La Cresta?
Payment is simple and secure. When you book your RV rental in La Cresta, you pay through the RVezy platform with a credit card; nothing changes hands in cash with the host. Your booking total covers the nightly rate, the RVezy service fee, your chosen protection plan, and any host add-ons. A separate refundable security deposit is pre-authorized on your card before the trip and released after the RV is returned in the same condition you got it. To avoid deposit issues, take dated photos and a walk-around video at pickup and dropoff, return with the fuel and propane levels noted in your agreement, and empty the tanks if required.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksHow do I beat the summer heat on a La Cresta RV trip?
You can absolutely enjoy a summer La Cresta RV trip if you plan around the heat. Bakersfield and the southern San Joaquin Valley regularly hit 100 to 110°F from June through August, so drive in the early morning or evening when the engine and tires are happiest, and park in shade when possible. Most RVezy rigs have roof-mounted air conditioners that run great on shore power at campgrounds; if you're boondocking, you'll need the generator to keep the AC humming. Smart move: head straight to higher elevations. Kernville sits at 2,700 feet and runs 10 to 15 degrees cooler, while the Trail of 100 Giants in Sequoia National Forest (about 6,000 feet) is downright crisp. Hydrate constantly and keep window shades down during the hottest hours.
weather.gov/hnx/Nearby cities with campgrounds
Los Angeles, CAPalm Springs, CASanta Barbara, CAFresno, CALake Forest, CAMoreno Valley, CAFrench Valley, CANorth Tustin, CAVilla Park, CATemecula, CAEastvale, CAJurupa Valley, CAFontana, CAMenifee, CAChino Hills, CAVista, CAPort Hueneme, CABeaumont, CACamarillo, CAHemet, CAMurrieta, CATustin, CASan Fernando, CAChino, CA