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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Walker Pass Campground

Onyx, California · Kern County · Campground

Walker Pass Campround is located just off of California State Highway 178 and at the junction of the Owens Peak and Cache Peak segments of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Located at 5,000 feet, there are pinyon pines and a few Joshua trees in this semi-arid setting and outstanding views of the dry, rugged foot…

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About Walker Pass Campground

Walker Pass Campround is located just off of California State Highway 178 and at the junction of the Owens Peak and Cache Peak segments of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Located at 5,000 feet, there are pinyon pines and a few Joshua trees in this semi-arid setting and outstanding views of the dry, rugged foothills of the Southern Sierras. The campround includes eleven walk in sites for Pacific Crest Trail hikers and tent campers. The camprgound also has two sites for car camping. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring. Hitching racks and corrals are available for horses. No potable water is available at this site.

How to Get There

Follow highway CA-178 approximately 9 miles west from the junction of CA-14 or 35 miles east of the town of Lake Isabella. Walker Pass Campground is just west of Walker Pass and well signed. From highway CA-178 West, the Campground will be on the right. From CA-178 East the Campground will be on the left.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    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

  • 💧
    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 Walker Pass Campground

Heading to Walker Pass Campground? 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 Walker Pass Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Walker Pass Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/14790) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Walker Pass Campground?

Follow highway CA-178 approximately 9 miles west from the junction of CA-14 or 35 miles east of the town of Lake Isabella. Walker Pass Campground is just west of Walker Pass and well signed. From highway CA-178 West, the Campground will be on the right. From CA-178 East the Campground will be on the left.

How do I contact Walker Pass Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: 661-391-6000 or email: [email protected].