Kernville Chamber of Commerce - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles
Sierra South Mountain Sports - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles
Lake Isabella - 6 min drive - 3.2 miles
Getting around
Inyokern, CA (IYK) - 73 min drive
Restaurants
Kern River Brewing Co. - 4 min drive
Big Blue Bear - 18 min walk
Pizza Barn - 4 min drive
Primo's - 4 min drive
Cheryl's Diner - 19 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK
Welcome to The Lookout House - Your Private River Waterfront Retreat
Look out over the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains in this 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-story house situated in an amazing setting directly on the wild & scenic Kern River.
Home Layout:
Primary bedroom with a Queen bed and attached full Bathroom with walk-in shower. 2nd bedroom has a Queen bed with a full guest Bathroom with a bathtub/shower directly across the hallway. Both upstairs bedrooms lead out onto a beautiful mountain/river view balcony. Well-stocked full Kitchen with new full appliances. Ready for chef meals! Full Laundry off Kitchen. Dining table area seating for 8 with river/mountain views. Living room with a rugged stone wood-burning fireplace and TV. Interior staircase connects the floors. A door separates the floors if privacy is needed. Downstairs has its own wood-burning fireplace lounge with classic audio entertainment and games/puzzles. Downstairs has a cozy Queen sofa bed. Downstairs room has its own outdoor access through a sliding glass door.
Home Features:
Unobstructed and commanding views of the riverscape and rugged mountains beyond from every room. Each upstairs bathroom looks out to a private, lush plant atrium. We use local wood on the walls and local river stone on the fireplaces. Our home was designed to bring elements of the landscape into the space for a peaceful, natural experience. Your private escape provides comfortable, thoughtfully designed spaces and modern conveniences - curated in a rustic modern style with vintage artwork, favorite books/games, record player and cozy furniture with plenty of room for family and friends.
Property Layout and River Access:
Gated driveway with room for 2 cars and ample street parking. Electric Vehicle Charging Level 2 from driveway always available. The entire property is fenced from front to backyard with lockable gates. Past the backyard fence is a quaint, historical river water canal that is crossed by a short footbridge with security handrails. After the bridge crossing is the river's edge concrete patio with lounge chairs & a picnic table. This patio area has a metal handrail only, no fence. There's a natural boulder path with a handrail down to the river water. You must be sure-footed to access the water. There is a very nice swimming area at the house depending on the season & weather - please ask us about what to expect during your stay :) Outside you'll find native plant-filled terraces, sitting areas, hammock and mature shade trees. Large patio and riverfront setting invites you to enjoy a BBQ or picnic lunch, or simply lounge on the deck. Enjoy the river going by.
What We Provide:
Inside Amenities Bedding (linens, blankets, pillows) Bath Towels Hand Soap/Shower Gel/Shampoo/Conditioner Hairdryer Iron and Board Graco Pack 'n Play with Fitted Sheet Standalone Folding Highchair Crib with Mattress & Fitted Sheet (only with prior request) Robes Travel Blackout Curtains Bluetooth Portable Speaker Board Games/Puzzles/Cards Curated Reading Library Record Player with record selection Firewood for sale (seasonal)
Kitchen Amenities Locally Roasted Ground Coffee and Coffee Pods Drip Coffee Machine with filter Keurig Machine and French Press Bagged Teas/Creamer Pods/Sweeteners Paper Towels/Napkins Cleaning Supplies/Laundry Detergent/Dishwashing Pods Dishes/Silverware/Drinkware/Knives All Pots/Pans/Kitchen Accessories Glassware - Beer/Wine/Bubbly Toaster Oven/Blender/Coffee Grinder/Kettle Olive Oil/Salt & Pepper/Basic Spices Foil/Wraps Filtered Water
Outside Amenities Electric Vehicle Charger Level 2 in Driveway (for fee) Propane Weber BBQ Grill and Tools (propane provided) Beach: Towels, 2 Chairs, Umbrella, Sand Toys 2 Float Tubes, 1 Stand Up Paddleboard (seasonal and liability waiver required) Small Selection of Life Jackets - adult & child Binoculars, Backpack, Maps 2 Snow Sleds (seasonal and liability waiver required)
Location/Town:
The streets are wide, in very good condition & calm. No need for 4-wheel drive. The river is in the backyard so that's the sound you'll hear most of! It's a fun neighborhood to walk your dog to downtown Kernville. Kernville a vintage-y, quirky Old West town that feels like you've gone back in time. Many restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacy, post office, shops, sports outfitters, fishing shops & local brewery are right in town. You can bring it all with you or buy it here - the choice is yours! Bicycles are fun in Kernville. Many options for road or trail running. Some very nice trailheads/hikes are close to town with a short drive. It's a perfect basecamp for exploring the southern Sierras.
Things To Do:
1 mile to Downtown Kernville, walk there in 15 minutes. You can get your morning coffee and have a look around. Go for a run or nature walk to Bull Run Creek at nearby Whiskey Flat Trail 1 mile from house. Visit the Giant Redwoods at Trail of 100 Giants (closed in winter). A 45 minute picturesque drive upriver. Stroll in the Kern Audubon Preserve. Mountain bike Cannell Trail or Whiskey Flat Trail. Fly fish the North Fork of the Kern for famous wild trout. Or trout fish right in your backyard! Try a kayak lesson, a white water rafting trip, take an intro climbing lesson. Kids can have some fun at Riverside Park in downtown Kernville where there's a nice playground & children's river beach. Visit the free Kern Valley Museum or the Nuui Cunni Native American Cultural Center. The beautiful view from Johnsondale Bridge is a short drive upriver. Go out to the award-winning Kern River Brewery for a special brew. Catch the stunning view & good meals at Ewing's Restaurant. Pop into the Saloon or Sportsman's Bar for a nightcap & a chat with the locals. When you're ready for bed, you'll fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the rushing river!
If you'd like More Space: we also rent this entire house which includes a Downstairs Suite with a private entrance, queen bedroom, living room, kitchenette/dining, and another full bathroom as the listing: The Big View House. However you choose to rent this house, you'll be the only guests in the house & on the property. Please contact us for this upgrade :)
POLICIES: 1. Guest max for nightly rate is 5. Extra guest is $50 per night per guest up to 1 extra guest max. 2. Guest MUST review and accept the Rental Agreement and Contact Form that'll be emailed after booking. 3. No fireworks/outdoor fires are allowed (propane BBQ and indoor fireplace are OK) 4. No events, parties, photoshoots without prior Owner approval. We have a Nest camera pointed at the street entry to ensure only registered Guests are on the property. 5. Two well-behaved and house trained dogs will be considered for pre-approval. Please tell us about your pet. $60 pet fee per stay will apply.
*PLEASE ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS when booking: 1. What brings you to the area? 2. What is the # of adults and # of children of any age in your group? 3. Are you bringing a pet (Yes or No)? If yes - please let us know breed, age, weight for pre-approval. :) Thanks!
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a sofa bed.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
1 accessible parking space
Handrails in stairways
Hardwood flooring in public areas
Stair-free path to entrance
Tile flooring in public areas
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Well-lit path to entrance
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Smoking not allowed
Note from host: No smoking or vaping in or near the house.
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In a rural location
In a village
In the mountains
Near a hospital
On a river
On the waterfront
Things to do
Gym
Snow sports gear
Water sports equipment
Basketball nearby
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Hunting nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Rafting nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Sledding nearby
Snowmobiling nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Bulk dispensers for toiletries
Double-glazed windows
Eco-friendly toiletries
Electric car charging station
Garden
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Local artist showcase
Local culture and ecosystem education
Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
Reusable coffee/tea filters
Unit size: 1,700 square feet
Water-efficient showers
Water-efficient toilets
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please leave used beds unmade. Put all used towels on bathroom floor. Check for your items & chargers.
Please wash dishes or start dishwasher. No food left out. Take kitchen trash to outside bin.
Return all our used items to where you found them. Turn off lights. Set heat or a/c to appropriate temp. Pay for any used firewood. Thanks!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
Guest Must Sign Rental Agreement. No Smoking/Vaping/Outdoor Fires.
No Parties, Events, Gatherings, Photoshoots, or Extra Guests Allowed on the property without prior Owner approval.
Pets Must be Pre-Approved, 2 Pets Max, $60 Per Stay.
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
2 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: Please tell us about your dogs for pre-approval
Children and extra beds
Note from host: Top of stairs locking security gate & outlet cover
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
No smoking or vaping in or near the house.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Cashless transactions are available
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
Property is also known as
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Frequently asked questions
What's there to do close to this vacation home?
This vacation home is located in Kernville and just steps from Sequoia National Forest and Kern River. You'll also find The Kern Valley Museum and Cannell Trail less than a mile away.
Is there parking available at The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK?
Yes, there is an electric car charging station and wheelchair-accessible parking available.
Is a spa located at this vacation home?
Spa services at the vacation home include massages.
Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.
What do couples enjoy most about The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK?
There are many amenities for couples at this vacation home, including a fireplace, a fireplace in some house, as well as a beach.
Are there hot tubs at The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.
Does this vacation home include breakfast service?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK?
No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
Are there rooms with balconies at The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK?
Yes, every house at The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK comes with a balcony and some offer beach and mountain views.
The Kern River House: Lookout House Private Riverfront Access Fireplaces Dog OK Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 16 out of 16 reviews
10 - Excellent
16
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 16 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 16 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 16 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 16 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Karen S.
Apr 23, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
I have traveled around the world and this vacation home was in my backyard. Attention to detail was 5 star and even though we came up here to off road we spent more time at the house than on the trails. Couldn’t get enough of the patio on the river. If you want to transport yourself to another realm then book yourself a stay at the Kern River House.
Karen S.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
10/10 Excellent
Matt G.
Apr 10, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
We had an excellent stay at the Kern River house. The property was incredibly clean, well maintained, and thoughtfully put together. Everything felt fresh and comfortable from the moment we walked in.The setting is just as impressive with beautiful views right along the river, peaceful surroundings, and a perfect place to relax or unwind after a day outdoors. You can tell the owners take pride in keeping the home in top condition.Overall, it was a great experience. Clean, comfortable, and in a beautiful location, exactly what you want in a getaway. We would absolutely stay here again.
Matt G.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
10/10 Excellent
Tatyana Y.
Aug 1, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful house with great views
We loved our stay at Keen River House! The house itself is beautiful, comfortable, stylish, and equipped with everything we needed. It’s a two-story house with lots of space for relaxing, with two kitchens, comfy bedrooms, and great energy and atmosphere. The outdoors is a garden comprised of native trees and plants, several places to relax and observe nature, a barbecue grill and a table, and a couple of fishing spots by the river below. The river flow is quite strong at the location, but there are a couple of spots where one can safely get into the water. We really enjoyed our stay, the river, observing animals, and checking out the town and the nearby river banks. Thank you so much!
Tatyana Y.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Tim R.
Jul 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic view
Great property
Tim R.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karen B., Incline Village, NV, North Lake Tahoe
Nov 9, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
One of the most beautiful we’ve stayed in, really showcases the mighty Kern river and the glorious backdrop that is the Kern River Valley. You have everything you need, the decor is very cool with a 40’s cabin/Mid Century Modern feel and hosts are so gracious. I would highly recommend The Kern River House!
Karen B.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Laura S.
Oct 25, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet with a river view. Cozy
Absolutely lovely, we had a great time
Laura S.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lorie G., United States
Sep 17, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Five Stars ++
What a beautiful well-appointed house in an amazing location!! The many windows and sliding doors brought the spectacular outdoors indoors. We loved sitting on the downstairs deck watching rafters navigate the rapids. Listening to the river flow at night lulled us to sleep. The hosts are gracious and good communicators. This was our second time at the Lookout House and we will return.
Lorie G.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Amee D.
Sep 3, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
River house
Awesome stay
Amee D.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Chris M.
Aug 1, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Location!
This place has it all! Perfect location on the river. Great communication with owners! We hope to rent this place again in the future!!
Chris M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Margie G.
Jul 26, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Impressive view with the comforts of home
Wow… This place has got an incredible view with large windows overlooking the mighty Kern River. There were many places to sit outside to Enjoy what the area has to offer. Since the water level was high this year, it was nice to be able to cool off in the canal that ran through the property. It was a great vacation for us and our dog.
Margie G.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Andrew W., San Diego
Apr 6, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful
The host with the most! The owners of the property didn’t spare any expense! Was like staying in a 5 star hotel. EXCEPTIONAL! And wonderful people! Property is in an amazing location. Can’t wait to go back!
Andrew W.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
ashley m.
Jan 29, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfectly peaceful
What a lovely home situated on the river with multilevel yards and indoor spaces. Everything was inviting and cozy. There is nothing to improve on this property, as it was just perfect and peaceful.
ashley m.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
10/10 Excellent
Judson O.
Oct 16, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect balance of luxury and wilderness
Rod and Carol’s property is an amazing family experience. They have taken so much care and thought in their property and it makes for an amazing stay. We swam in the river, explored and relaxed and was exactly what we needed to get away from the city.
Judson O.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Jeff L.
Jun 4, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Nicest house on the Kern River!!!
One of the best getaway vacation I’ve had in a while. I love to fish and fish many spots from the Johnson Ville bridge downto the cemetery just south of town. But I about 2.5 trout a day from this house Fishin the back yard, the river. The host were fantastic and the house is modern and elegant and such a joy to be there!!! Can’t wait to return!!!
Jeff L.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
10/10 Excellent
Ike Y.
Apr 26, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely amazing property! And our hosts were even better! Truly our best stay ever.