
Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Bakersfield, California, United States
1. Kern River Parkway State Recreation Area
A scenic trail along the Kern River offering picnic areas, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing. Ideal for biking, hiking, and birdwatching.
- Natural Beauty: Features stunning natural landscapes with lush vegetation, diverse wildlife, and the flowing Kern River.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides various recreational opportunities such as biking, hiking, and fishing.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers the chance to spot a variety of birds, rabbits, deer, and other wildlife along the parkway.
2. Buena Vista Lake
A popular lake for boating, fishing, and camping. The lake also provides stunning sunset views.
- Water Recreation: Ideal for various water activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and jet skiing.
- Camping Experience: Provides campgrounds for an immersive outdoor experience near the lake.
- Sunset Views: Offers picturesque sunsets that create a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
3. Lake Ming Recreation Area
A large recreational area with a lake for boating, fishing, and swimming. Also features a water park and campgrounds.
- Water Activities: Offers various water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Water Park: Features a water park with slides, pools, and other attractions for kids and adults.
- Camping Experience: Provides campgrounds for an immersive outdoor experience near the lake.
4. California Oil Museum
A museum showcasing the history of the oil industry in Kern County. Visitors can learn about the extraction process and view antique equipment.
- Historical Education: Offers insights into the history and evolution of the oil industry.
- Antique Equipment Display: Features various antique drilling equipment and tools from the early days of oil extraction.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides interactive exhibits to engage visitors in a hands-on learning experience.
5. Kern National Wildlife Refuge
A wildlife refuge protecting migratory birds and other wetland species. Visitors can explore the area via auto tour or guided hikes.
- Wildlife Conservation: Protects and supports a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds.
- Auto Tour: Allows visitors to explore the refuge via their vehicles while enjoying views of the wetlands and wildlife.
- Guided Hikes: Offers guided hiking tours to help visitors discover the unique ecosystems within the refuge.
6. Hart Park
A city park with a lake for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The park also features tennis courts, playgrounds, and walking trails.
- Water Activities: Offers various water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Sports Facilities: Features tennis courts, basketball courts, and other sports facilities for active visitors.
- Picnic Areas: Provides picnic areas with tables and grills for relaxing and enjoying meals outdoors.
7. Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area
A recreational area offering boating, swimming, and fishing. It also features a concession stand and restrooms.
- Water Activities: Offers various water activities like boating, swimming, and fishing.
- Concession Stand: Provides a concession stand for snacks, drinks, and other supplies.
- Restrooms: Offers clean restrooms for the convenience of visitors.
8. Ming Lake Campground
A campground located near a lake, offering various water activities and recreational opportunities.
- Water Activities: Offers various water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Camping Experience: Provides campgrounds for an immersive outdoor experience near the lake.
- Recreational Opportunities: Features various recreational facilities, including a playground and volleyball court.
9. Kern River Rafting Trips
White-water rafting adventures on the Kern River for thrill seekers. The trips range from beginner to expert levels.
- Thrilling Adventure: Offers white-water rafting experiences suitable for both beginners and experts.
- Expert Guides: Equips participants with professional guides who ensure safety and provide an enjoyable experience.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the Kern River Canyon and its surrounding landscapes.
10. Pirate's Cove Waterpark
A water park featuring water slides, pools, and a lazy river. It's perfect for families seeking fun-filled water activities.
- Water Slides: Offers various water slides of different heights and speeds for thrill seekers.
- Lazy River: Features a relaxing lazy river for those seeking a calmer aquatic experience.
- Family-Friendly: Designed to provide enjoyable water activities for the entire family.
11. Lake Isabella State Recreation Area
A large recreational area offering boating, fishing, and camping. It also features a marina, beaches, and picnic areas.
- Water Activities: Offers various water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Marina: Features a marina with boat rentals for visitors.
- Camping Experience: Provides campgrounds for an immersive outdoor experience near the lake.
12. Cerro Gordo Ghost Town
A historic mining town turned tourist attraction. Visitors can explore abandoned mines, buildings, and artifacts.
- Historical Education: Provides insights into the history of California's gold rush era.
- Abandoned Mines: Allows visitors to explore abandoned mines and underground tunnels.
- Artifact Display: Features various artifacts and relics from the mining town's past.
13. Buena Vista Conservation Area
A conservation area for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife observation. It also features a wetland education center.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers the chance to spot a variety of birds, rabbits, deer, and other wildlife.
- Birdwatching: Provides opportunities for birdwatching in various habitats.
- Wetland Education Center: Features a wetland education center with exhibits about the ecosystem and its inhabitants.
14. Santa Clara River Parkway
A trail system running along the Santa Clara River, perfect for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
- Natural Beauty: Features stunning natural landscapes with lush vegetation and flowing river views.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides various recreational opportunities such as biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers the chance to spot a variety of birds, rabbits, deer, and other wildlife along the parkway.
15. McKittrick Canyon
A scenic canyon offering hiking trails, wildlife observation, and stunning views. It's also home to the famous ghost town of Calico.
- Natural Beauty: Features breathtaking landscapes with colorful canyon walls, rock formations, and wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Offers various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
- Ghost Town of Calico: Includes the historic ghost town of Calico, where visitors can explore abandoned mines and buildings.