About TILLIE CREEK
Overview Tillie Creek campground is nestled in oak trees on the shores of Lake Isabella, a popular destination for water activities, especially windsurfing and fishing. The 11,000-acre lake is actually a reservoir, one of California's largest, and it marks the division between the Upper Kern and Lower Kern Rivers. Recreation Lake activities are the focal point of this year-round campground. Options include swimming, water skiing and windsurfing. The lake is known for trout fishing during the colder months. Lake Isabella offers anglers a variety of species, including black and White crappie, bluegill, catfish and largemouth bass.Facilities This campground can accommodate family reunions and other large parties, from 60 up to 150 guests. The campground is located 6 miles from the town of Lake Isabella. One group area is wheelchair accessible. A marina and boat ramps are available just to the south. An ampitheater is available for campfire programs. Other facilities include a fish cleaning station and a playground.Natural Features The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the Forest's lower slopes. The Forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls. Nearby Attractions The campground provides a good base for day trips to the Sequoia National Park, Trail of a Hundred Giants, and numerous Sequoia groves in the Giant Sequoia National Monument. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (760) 376-1269.
How to Get There
From Bakersfield, California, take Highway 178 east to the town of Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella take Highway 155 north, traveling 6 miles to the entry station of Tillie Creek Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 9)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 TILLIE CREEK
Heading to TILLIE CREEK? 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 TILLIE CREEK?
No central reservation system listed for TILLIE CREEK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232796) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to TILLIE CREEK?
From Bakersfield, California, take Highway 178 east to the town of Lake Isabella. From Lake Isabella take Highway 155 north, traveling 6 miles to the entry station of Tillie Creek Campground.
How do I contact TILLIE CREEK?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-376-1815 or email: pcaldwell@goexplorus.com.
References & Official Resources
