Walker Pass Campground – Southern Sierra Nevada
Walker Pass Campground is a small, semi-primitive campground nestled at 5,000 feet in the rugged foothills of the Southern Sierra Nevada.
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the campground offers 11 walk-in sites for Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikers and tent campers, as well as two car camping sites. Surrounded by pinyon pines and Joshua trees, the campground is a peaceful spot for outdoor enthusiasts exploring this arid, mountainous region.
Campground Details
| Site Types | Tent, Walk-in, Car Camping |
| Amenities | Picnic Tables, Fire Rings, Hitching Racks, Horse Corrals |
| Potable Water | Not available |
| Reservations | First-come, first-served |
| Phone | 661-391-6000 |
| BLM_CA_Web_BK@blm.gov | |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.6639, -118.03787 |
| Location | Southern Sierra Nevada, near Walker Pass |
| Season | Year-round |
Getting to Walker Pass Campground
Walker Pass Campground is conveniently located off California State Highway 178, approximately 9 miles west of the junction with CA-14 or 35 miles east of the town of Lake Isabella. From CA-178 West, the campground will be on the right. From CA-178 East, it will be on the left. The turnoff to the campground is well-signed, making it easy to locate.
Campground Overview
Walker Pass Campground offers a tranquil setting for hikers, campers, and equestrians in the semi-arid landscape of the Southern Sierra Nevada.
Situated at the junction of the Owens Peak and Cache Peak segments of the Pacific Crest Trail, it is a popular stop for through-hikers and backpackers. With 11 walk-in sites and two car camping sites, the campground accommodates a variety of visitors, including tent campers and those traveling with horses.
The campground’s natural setting features a mix of pinyon pines and Joshua trees, offering limited shade and striking views of the dry, rugged terrain.
Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and there are hitching racks and corrals for equestrians. However, visitors should note that potable water is not available on-site, so they must bring their own supply.
Walker Pass Campground’s proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail and Kiavah Wilderness Area makes it an excellent base for hikers seeking to explore the surrounding wilderness.
