2026 annual block releaseTimed release
Permits are made available in a block release annually on March 15 at 0700 PT. Confirm exact release timing on Recreation.gov. Trip window: 2026-05-15 → 2026-09-15.
Opens: Mar 15, 2026
U.S. Forest Service · CA
Forks of the Kern River Permits
Permit to launch non-motorized watercraft on the designated Wild and Recreational Kern River, a 17-mile Class V Sierra run with a strict 15-person daily quota.
Permit requiredovernightClass V (with Class IV-V rapids)17 mi
Access requirement
How to get a permit
Permit rules
QuotaQuota is based on a maximum of 15 people entering per day on the Wilderness and Forks Runs of the Kern River.
GroupUp to 15 people per permit, including the permit holder.
Fees$10.00 recreation fee per permit plus a $6.00 non-refundable reservation fee.
TransferLimit of three permits per person per season; once a permit is printed (starting 7 days before entry), modifications and cancellations are no longer permitted.
SafetyClass V run with Class IV-V rapids (Vortex, Gauntlet, Confusion, Carson Falls); recommended only for seasoned boaters with ample Class IV-V experience or with a guide.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
QUAKING ASPEN
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 2819Aug 2914Aug 3027Aug 3130
Availability: Recreation.gov
QUAKING ASPEN CABIN
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 301Aug 311
Availability: Recreation.gov
Troy Meadow Campground
Not reservable online
Availability: Unavailable
BELKNAP
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 281Aug 29—Aug 306Aug 3111
Availability: Recreation.gov