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Old Isabella

Lake Isabella, California · Kern County · Facility

Located off Highway 178 on the southern side of Lake Isabella, this facility offers visitors a vault toilet, trash service, a visitor information station, and campsites above the high-water mark. Below the high-water mark, visitors can drive their vehicles to the shoreline and camp at the water’s edge. Below the high-w…

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About Old Isabella

Located off Highway 178 on the southern side of Lake Isabella, this facility offers visitors a vault toilet, trash service, a visitor information station, and campsites above the high-water mark. Below the high-water mark, visitors can drive their vehicles to the shoreline and camp at the water’s edge. Below the high-water mark, portable toilets and trash receptacles are provided for visitor convenience during the summer.Adjacent to the camping site there is a public boat launch and courtesy dock with a large, paved parking area for vehicles and boat trailers, flush toilets, and drinking water. The Forest Service’s Southern Sierra Passesare accepted at this site, as well as the interagency Annual, Senior, Access, Volunteer, and MilitaryPasses. The Southern Sierra Pass can be purchased at Golden State Surplus in Lake Isabella, Red’s Marina in the South Fork Recreation Area, Riverside One Stop in Kernville, James Sierra Gateway Market in South Lake, and local Forest Service offices or online.

Plan Your Visit to Old Isabella

Heading to Old Isabella? 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 Old Isabella?

No central reservation system listed for Old Isabella. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/242629) for the latest entry policy and availability.