Lower Kern River
Sequoia National Forest
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 Campgrounds.
Whitewater Boating - Lower Kern. The water flow of the Lower Kern is regulated by the Lake Isabella dams providing an extended season for white water boating from below the dam to Democrat Beach. Outfitter guides can operate rafting trips for most of the summer unlike the Upper Kern that is dependent on natural water flows.
Lower Canyon. From the mouth of the canyon, the Kern River is accessible along Highway 178. Multiple developed day use areas provide picnic tables, restrooms, and fishing access. Many people chose to pull off alongside the road and hike to the river.
From Democrat up to the dam, day use sites include boat put-ins and takeouts. Highway 178 crosses the river at Delonega Day Use. As the two lane road winds up the steep, narrow canyon the river is left far below. To reach the river dirt roads lead to popular river sites such as Black Gulch.
Old Kern Canyon Road (County Road 214) at Democrat breaks off from Highway 178 continuing to wind and climb the canyon along the southeast side of the river. This narrow road eventually connects to Miracle Hot Springs day use, Hobo and Sandy Flat Campgrounds reconnecting to Highway 178 at the top of the canyon at Bore Road.
Along The Upper And Lower Kern River
Swimming Is Not Recommended. Powerful currents, cold water temperatures, and underwater hazards such as fallen trees and rocks, can trap even the strongest swimmers. Drowning is the number one cause of accidental death along the Kern. Falling in is as dangerous as swimming. Children should always be wearing life preservers and be closely supervised.
Hiking. Be sure to pick a trail that matches your experience and ability. When hiking we suggest having the proper clothing, changes in the weather can happen rapidly. Wear good hiking boots and break them in before your hike! Always carry plenty of water, a first aid kit, map and food to meet your needs. Please remember to pack out what you pack in.
Fishing is a popular activity. A 3 day or 1 year California Fishing license is required and please know and follow California State Fish and Game regulations. Fishing is open year round along the Kern River. Live bait is allowed in the upper and lower sections and the limit is 5 trout per day/10 in possession. Above the Johnsondale Bridge special fishing restrictions apply, be sure to check local Fish and Game regulations.
Annual Kern River Use Permit. Good through April 30 of the following year, is required year round for EACH watercraft. Permits are issued at the Forest Services offices. A Coast Guard approved personal flotation device must be readily accessible, properly fit, and in good condition, for each member of the party. Daily water flow information is available from the Kern River Flow Phone. Flow information can be accessed toll-free at 877-537-6356 or locally at 760-376-8821.
| Campgrounds |
Elevation |
Sites |
Season |
Max. Trailer |
Potable Water |
Remarks |
| Black Gulch North |
2300 |
|
May-Oct |
N/A |
No |
- |
| Black Gulch South |
2300 |
|
May-Oct |
N/A |
No |
- |
| Hobo |
2400 |
35 |
Apr-Sept |
24’ |
No |
- |
| Sandy Flat |
2400 |
35 |
All Year |
24’ |
Yes |
Reservations available |
| Day Use Areas |
Elevation |
Season |
Potable Water |
| Live Oak |
1400 |
Mar-Sept |
No |
| Lower Richbar |
1400 |
Mar-Sept |
No |
| Upper Richbar |
1400 |
All Year |
No |
| Delonegha River Access |
2400 |
All Year |
No |
| Trails |
Trail # |
Elevation |
Miles |
Remarks |
| East Kern Canyon |
32E75 |
2200-2400 |
8.5 |
Bicycles |
| Hobo Fishing |
31E74 |
2280-2400 |
½ |
Fishing |
| Kern River |
32E49 |
2200-2200 |
5.3 |
Bicycles permitted |
| Patch Corner |
31E82 |
2200-2271 |
2.0 |
Bicycles permitted |
