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Brush Creek Recreation Site

7 ReviewsAdd Review

This free dispersed site along Brush Creek provides drive-in and walk-in access about 30 minutes north of Kernville. Campers can set up anywhere at least 25 feet from the creek, with some choosing elevated spots on the bank overlooking the water. The open terrain accommodates both tent campers and RVs in what reviewers describe as a dirt parking lot area.

The creek runs year-round and offers swimming, fishing, and the constant sound of flowing water. Les R. notes "the sound of the stream makes for wonderful white noise at night." Summer visitors find low water levels ideal for swimming, though fishing success varies. The site serves as a trailhead for Seven Teacups hiking and canyoneering adventures.

Basic amenities include vault toilets, trash service during summer months, and fire rings, though campers must obtain fire permits online beforehand. No potable water or recycling bins are available. Dogs stay on leash throughout the forest. Weekend crowds arrive Friday and can make finding spots competitive, while weekday visits offer more solitude.

The campground attracts families and groups for water activities and day hikes. For those seeking additional options in the region, places to camp around Sequoia National Forest include developed alternatives with more amenities.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Brush Creek Recreation Site is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

Head north from Kernville approximately 15 miles and Brush Creek will be on the west side of the road.

Coordinates

35.96625192 N
118.47879675 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Brush Creek Recreation Site needs a permit.

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Drive Time

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the scenic riverside location with flexible camping options away from parking areas. Basic facilities include vault toilets and seasonal trash service, though no running water. Weekends can get crowded, but weekday visits offer more peaceful experiences.

Jake P.
Reviewed Apr. 21, 2021

Loved it!

I loved this site!! No phone service, but there are toilets cleaned weekly, trash, you can hike, fish, raft, I even got a bb gun in Kernville to pass a little time 😂. Gorgoeus waterfalls! Fire rings available, but no table, no drinking water, however it is a FREE site!!

Month of VisitApril
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Conrad G.
Reviewed Apr. 16, 2021

Beautiful place next to river

Such a beautiful place! We camped right next to the river. It was such a peaceful place and the sounds of the river right next to our camp was just heaven on earth. We stayed for 2 nights in June 2020

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Conrad G., April 16, 2021
  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Conrad G., April 16, 2021
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Adam C.
Reviewed Jul. 18, 2020

Can be nice without the crowds

Great campground about 30 minutes north of Kernville. There is a nice general store called McNally's just 10 min short of here. We showed up on Thursday and it was nice and mellow. But then the weekend crowd showed up Friday. It got very crowded and finding a spot can get desperate. Show up early and if u can do a weekday trip, do it. I tried a little fishing but didn't catch anything. Saw some others catch a couple throw backs. The water was wonderful and low for good swimming. I'd come back for sure.

  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Adam C., July 18, 2020
  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Adam C., July 18, 2020
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Sam B.
Reviewed Jul. 3, 2020

Amazing Site!

Really great spot and near to the creek for wonderful hikes. Trees are amazing

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Sam B., July 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Sam B., July 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Sam B., July 3, 2020
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D
Reviewed Jan. 19, 2020

First Solo Trip

Was with a group of friends and being young we did come unprepared on a few cases but this was a great spot to settle on. Waters were quick but the few creeks around the area should be cared for, cleaned, and enjoyed on every opportunity possible. The trail across the road has beautiful scenery for those who respect it and has good space for those who can claim them first. Sandles are needed of course and bug spray is handy, and there’s a general store everyone stops at for gas and last minute necessities further down south on the road. A few secret places for those who know how to ask the right patrons.

Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Aug. 30, 2018

Free, beautiful, stream-side camping

This is our favorite campground in the Sequoia National Forest, of the four we've stayed in. As long as you are 25 feet away from the river you can camp anywhere you want, so definitely not restricted to the parking lot area. There are some beautiful spots high up on a bank overlooking the stream. A quick walk down to the stream allows for quick refreshing dips whenever you want. The sound of the stream makes for wonderful white noise at night.

Facilities. There are vault toilets. During the summer season there are also trash bins provided. Unfortunately this campground does not have separate recycling bins nor running water. But hey, it's free! Just make sure to apply for your fire permit online ahead of time to be allowed to set up campfires or use camp stoves.

Dogs allowed throughout the forest as long as they are on leash.

Activities in the area:

  • This campground is the closest to the trailhead for 7 teacups hiking or canyoneering
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • White water tubing/rafting/kayaking
Month of VisitAugust
  • Tour of the campground
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  • Overlook of Brush Creek meeting the Kern River
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  • Review photo of Brush Creek Recreation Site by Les R., August 30, 2018
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Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed at Brush Creek?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed at Brush Creek Recreation Site. You can camp anywhere you want as long as you stay at least 25 feet away from the river. The area offers flexibility for setting up camp, with some beautiful spots high on the bank overlooking the stream. The site doesn't restrict camping to just the parking lot area, though that's where many RVs and car campers tend to gather. It's best to arrive early, especially on weekends, as the area can get quite crowded.

What recreation activities are available at Brush Creek Recreation Site?

Brush Creek Recreation Site offers numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking on nearby trails with beautiful scenery, fishing in the creek, and rafting in the river waters. The area features gorgeous waterfalls to explore and plenty of opportunities for swimming. There's also access to scenic trails across the road from the campground. With no cell service, it's a perfect place to disconnect and enjoy nature. The combination of water access and forest setting makes this a versatile recreation destination for various outdoor pursuits.

Where is Brush Creek Campground located in California?

Brush Creek Campground is located in the Sequoia National Forest, approximately 30 minutes north of Kernville, California. It's situated along the Kern River, making it a popular destination for water activities. McNally's general store is about 10 minutes away, providing convenient access to supplies for campers.

Are there photos available of Brush Creek Campground?

While there's no dedicated photo gallery mentioned, you can find photos of Brush Creek Campground through various camping websites and social media platforms. The campground features picturesque settings with creek views, trees providing shade, and spots overlooking the water. For the most current visual representation, consider checking the official Sequoia National Forest website or contacting the ranger district office directly.

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