The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Long Valley Campground is a quiet camping area located in Southern California. The primitive campground, which is found within the Chimney Peak Recreation Area, is under the protection of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). All over the United States, a variety of natural areas are administered by the BLM. Many of these sites are popular destinations for camping and other recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Because of its remote location and tranquil setting, Long Valley Campground is an excellent destination for those looking to get closer to nature. There are several scenic hiking trails nearby, and Sequoia National Forest is less than 20 miles from the campground. If you search online for "BLM camping near me," you can discover all of the BLM sites in your region.
This unmaintained route is located very close to Long Valley Campground. The trail begins near the campground and leads to the South Fork of the Kern River through the Domelands Wilderness. The out-and-back trail provides lovely scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
Length: 3.0 miles
Intensity: Easy
The popular Trail of 100 Giants is located in the beautiful Sequoia National Forest. The family-friendly loop trail navigates through Long Meadow Grove and features many giant sequoia trees, some of which are as old as 1,500 years. The trail surface is paved, and the route is wheelchair-friendly and dog-friendly.
Length: 1.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
This trail is also located in Sequoia National Forest. The loop trail is not only popular for hiking but also for mountain biking and horseback riding. The best times to visit are between May and October, and you're welcome to bring your dogs along; they can even be off-leash in some areas.
Length: 3.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The best fishing destination near Long Valley Campground is the South Fork of the Kern River. The gentle stream is known as a great spot for catching wild trout. The angling season runs from the end of April until November 15th, and there are certain restrictions in place for the designated wild trout area. In addition to fishing, the river provides opportunities for kayaking and rafting.
The BLM site is located only a short distance from the majestic Chimney Peak, which is one of the region's more popular climbing destinations. The 7,681-foot mountain features several trails that reach the summit, and the best times to make the climb are during late summer and early fall. For any who do reach the mountain's summit, the views of the region below are spectacular.
The Chimney Peak Wilderness that surrounds Long Valley Campground is home to a variety of wildlife species. Deer are typically the most common creatures spotted by visitors, but you might also get a glimpse of a bobcat, mountain lion, or black bear during your visit. If you head to the nearby Sequoia National Forest, some of the other animals you might observe include gray foxes, skunks, gopher snakes, California newts, and many more.
Long Valley Campground is an excellent place to enjoy a picnic. The BLM site features picnic tables and fire rings, as well as pit toilets. Because the campground's surroundings are so quiet and peaceful, it makes for the perfect spot to have a relaxing lunch. You could also hike down to the nearby South Fork of the Kern River, lay out a blanket, and have your picnic next to the flowing water.
BLM RV camping is possible at Long Valley Campground although all of the campsites are primitive. There are no RV hookups available. However, big rigs are welcome, and the sites can accommodate RVs as long as 80 feet. While there are no other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds nearby, you'll have several quality RV parks with hookups to choose from if you head to the Lake Isabella area. For example, there's the Lake Isabella RV Resort and the Lake Isabella / Kern River KOA.
You'll need to pay a nominal fee to stay at the Long Valley Campground. However, you can enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping in the surrounding area if you like. There is quite a bit of unoccupied space near the campground, and you shouldn't have too much trouble finding a peaceful spot to stake out your primitive campsite.
When you're planning a trip to Long Valley Campground, keep the remoteness of the site in mind. It won't be convenient to purchase any supplies or food, and there's no potable water offered at the campground. Make sure to bring everything you expect to need with you and consider bringing a significant amount of extra food and water in case of an emergency.
The wilderness area surrounding the BLM site is known to be inhabited by black bears. To keep them away from your campsite, make sure your food is always kept in enclosed containers. It also wouldn't be a bad idea to bring bear spray with you. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
While visiting Long Valley Campground, the BLM requires you to adhere to the Leave No Trace principles. This is to help preserve the area for generations to come. There are no trash receptacles at the campground, so please be sure to remove all of your garbage from the area when you depart.
To reach Long Valley Campground from the town of Lake Isabella, CA, take Highway CA-178 eastbound for approximately 30 miles. When you reach Canebrake Road, turn north, and then, follow the dirt road for roughly nine miles. When you come to the junction of Canebrake and Long Valley/Chimney Basin Road, take the left onto Long Valley/Chimney Basin. After about eight miles, you will come to the road for Long Valley Campground on your left. The campground has an access road that's approximately two miles long and typically needs a high-clearance vehicle with four-wheel drive.
Ready to visit Long Valley Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
