Kennedy Meadows General Store and Campground
This legendary backcountry outpost has been feeding and sheltering PCT hikers and overlanders since the 1960s. The campground offers basic sites with fire rings and picnic tables scattered among the cottonwoods along the South Fork Kern River. The general store stocks essential supplies, cold beer, and surprisingly good burgers. Hot showers are available for a small fee, and the atmosphere is pure Sierra Nevada — laid-back and welcoming.
Access is via paved Kennedy Meadows Road off Highway 395, about 25 miles west. The road is suitable for any vehicle, though it winds through some narrow sections. This is a popular basecamp for exploring the Domeland Wilderness or tackling the Bradshaw Trail. Reservations aren’t required, but sites fill up on summer weekends.
Historic PCT resupply with camping and cold beer
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | 96740 Sherman Pass Road, California 93527 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Inyokern, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 25 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 40 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $25.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | April-November |
| Land manager | Private |
| Amenities | Cell signal, Drinking water, Fire ring, Picnic table, Showers, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |