About PIONEER POINT
Overview Reservations not being accepted. Pioneer Point is a high-desert campground near Lake Isabella in the Sequoia National Forest. The 11,000-acre lake is actually a reservoir, one of California's largest, and it marks the division between the Upper and Lower Kern Rivers. Recreation The focal point of this year-round campground is Lake Isabella, where campers can swim, water ski, windsurf and more. The lake is known for trout fishing during the colder months, offering anglers a variety of species, including black and white crappie, bluegill, catfish and largemouth bass. Facilities This 73-site campground, directly across the street from Lake Isabella, is open year-round. Some sites offer sweeping lake views, and a playground in the campground offers enjoyment for children. Lake access is less than a mile from the campgrounds. The town of Lake Isabella is a 2-mile drive away. Natural Features The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the Forest's lower slopes. The Forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (760) 376-1269. Nearby Attractions The campground provides a great base for day trips to the Trail of a Hundred Giants and numerous Sequoia groves in the Giant Sequoia National Monument. You cannot access Sequoia National Park with a day trip. The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.
How to Get There
From Bakersfield, California, take Highway 178 east to the town of Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella take 155 north about 1.5 miles to Pioneer Point Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to PIONEER POINT
Heading to PIONEER POINT? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for PIONEER POINT?
No central reservation system listed for PIONEER POINT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232793) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PIONEER POINT?
From Bakersfield, California, take Highway 178 east to the town of Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella take 155 north about 1.5 miles to Pioneer Point Campground.
How do I contact PIONEER POINT?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-376-1815 or email: sschmidt@goexplorus.com.
References & Official Resources
