Exploring Kern County: Day Trips and Vacation Ideas

Kern County is often referred to as the “Golden Empire,” and for a good reason. Kern County is located in the southern Central Valley of California. It extends east beyond the southern slope of the eastern Sierra Nevada range into the Mojave Desert. The area was first settled in 1866 and had rich oil, black gold, and agricultural history. Today, Kern County attracts thousands every year.

Visiting Kern County: Fun Things to See and Do

Bakersfield is the largest city in Kern County, known for its “Bakersfield Sound” music genre and Basque food restaurants. Kern County also offers popular destinations like Lake Isabella, the Sequoia National Monument, and the Wild and Scenic Kern River. The Mojave Desert features natural wonders, including Red Rock Canyon, Randsburg, and Edwards Air Force Base. Outdoor adventures like river rafting, hiking, camping, and fishing can be enjoyed in the Kern River Valley, the gateway to the Sequoia National Monument.

Kern County Day Trips And Vacation Ideas

Kern County, California, boasts many attractions and natural beauty, catering to various interests, including history and outdoor activities. Here are some trip ideas to consider when visiting:

Kern River Valley: Rafting, Fishing, Camping, & Hiking

The Kern River is the undisputed recreation capital for outdoor adventure destinations in southern California. Rafting is one of the most popular activities along the Kern River, with numerous outfitters offering guided trips along the upper and lower Kern River. Another popular activity is camping. State, federal, and private campgrounds are multiple. Free camping is allowed in the upper Kern River. The Kern River Canyon also offers beautiful hiking trails.

Lake Isabella, the Heart of the Kern River Valley

Lake Isabella is nestled in the Kern River Valley between two sections of the Sequoia National Forest. Lake Isabella is a popular year-round destination for camping and fishing, but it is only three hours north of Los Angeles. Kernville is an excellent place to stock up on camping supplies. Kernville also has several motels for those looking for a more comfortable stay. The City of Kernville has a fantastic museum and dining and lodging options. https://www.lakeisabella.net/

Silver City Ghost Town, Bodfish, California

Silver City Ghost Town is located a few miles from Lake Isabella and is worth a stop while visiting. Even though Silver City never existed, nearly all the structures are from the Kern River Valley historical past. Silver City is a diamond in the rough for antique lovers, with thousands of artifacts on display throughout the property. Some of them are for sale in the town’s main building. Silver City is a unique destination, combining elements of a museum, filming location, and ghost town, offering visitors a unique experience. https://www.lakeisabella.net/silvercity/

Red Rock Canyon SP A hidden gem in the Mojave Desert

Red Rock Canyon State Park has been the site of scores of movies, including the Planet of the Apes crew, due to its colorful rock formations. Spring and fall are the best times to visit Red Rock Canyon and State Park. Camping, hiking, and off-roading are the most popular activities in Red Rock Canyon State Park. Hiking and OHV trails crisscross the entire park and invite you to explore the area, including plenty of petroglyphs in many surrounding caves and crevices. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=631

Outlets at Tejon Ranch, a Discount Shoppers Paradise

The Outlets at Tejon Ranch are an oasis along the Grapevine’s long trek, a stretch of highway that cuts through the Tehachapi Mountains. In addition to the large outlet mall, you will find traveler-focused businesses such as lodging places, fast food restaurants, and places to refuel for the return trip after a day of shopping. Due to its remote location, Tejon Outlets offers discounts not found at any other outlet mall. The Outlets at Tejon Ranch are only 60 miles north of Los Angeles at the intersection of Interstate 5 and Highway 99. https://www.tejonoutlets.com/

California Living Museum Bakersfield: Family Fun

The California Living Museum covers 15 acres of land in Bakersfield. Both a zoo and a botanical garden, this unique attraction is ideal for a family day trip. Visitors can explore various exhibits and see animals native to California, such as the California Condor, Island Fox, various owls, hawks, and more. Kids will love the Central California Children’s Railroad, which takes a 15-minute journey around the grounds of the California Living Museum. CALM is at 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway, Bakersfield, California. https://calmzoo.org/

West Kern County Oil Museum: Learn About History

One of the few remaining wooden oil derricks from the early days of oil production can be seen at the West Kern Oil Museum in Taft, California. The 8-acre grounds of the West Kern Oil Museum display oil mining equipment. Visitors can view a wooden oil derrick, pumpjacks, vintage trucks, antique tractors, and assorted artifacts from the oil fields. Visitors can get up close to and sometimes climb into the equipment scattered across the museum grounds. https://www.westkernoilmuseum.org/

Tehachapi California: Murals and Trains

Tehachapi has made a name for itself because of the numerous murals that adorn virtually many of its walls. At every turn, a new and fascinating piece of artwork reveals itself. Many murals depict a significant historical event or a famous citizen. The Tehachapi Murals are currently being restored or already restored and are well worth a look. The Tehachapi Depot Museum houses a collection of train artifacts and information on the train history of the region. Chances are you will see a freight speeding by on its way to or from the world-famous Tehachapi loop. 101 W Tehachapi Blvd, Tehachapi, California. https://tehachapimurals.com/

Randsburg Ghost Town Kern County

Randsburg is located in eastern Kern County. Although gold fever no longer draws visitors, tourists still flock to explore the town’s historical past. They can wander Butte Avenue, taking in the sights of dilapidated structures and historical monuments, including a tiny jail cell and rusted-out abandoned vehicles scattered throughout empty lots. With around 100 people, Randsburg is often called a living ghost town. Almost everywhere you turn, you will find quirky signs, monuments, or artifacts from the present and back to the town’s glory days. This fascinating little town is a must-see for any history buff.

Trona Pinnacles: A Far Out Trip

Trona Pinnacles are located in northeastern Kern County. These unusual rock formations were formed over 10,000 years ago when this area of California was covered by water. There are trails to explore and numerous dirt roads that weave in and out of the Tufa towers. Four-wheel drive is not required but recommended. Primitive camping is allowed at the Trona Pinnacles, and if you do decide to stay overnight, you will be treated to a spectacular display of stars. Packs of coyotes are known to roam the area, so keep an eye on pets & kids day or night.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon Parks

While not entirely in Kern County, parts of it are accessible from here, offering hiking, camping, and the chance to see giant sequoias. Sequoia and Kings Canyon Parks are tucked side by side east of the San Joaquin Valley. These two National Parks are connected by a single road that provides nearly 866,000 acres of outdoor adventure in the “Land of the Giants.” While Sequoia Park contains one of the highest points in the United States, its neighbor has one of the deepest points in the Great Canyon.

Getting to Kern County

Visitors can spend several days exploring Kern County, California. One option is to explore the Kern County Wine Trail. While less famous than Napa or Sonoma, Kern has a growing wine region worth exploring. Another option is to take Agricultural Tours. Given Kern’s role in agriculture, some farms offer tours where you can learn about farming or even pick your produce. Kern County is about a three-hour drive from Los Angeles or San Francisco.

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Things to do and see in Fresno County

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