Best Backpacking Destinations in Bakersfield, California, United States
1. Lake Ming
A popular recreation area with camping facilities, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
- Scenic Location: Beautiful lake surrounded by hills and trees.
- Recreational Activities: Activities like fishing, boating, and hiking are available.
- Camping Facilities: Overnight camping is permitted with necessary permits.
2. Kern River Parkway
A stunning parkway along the Kern River, offering hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
- Natural Beauty: Beautiful river views and lush greenery throughout.
- Wildlife Opportunities: Opportunity to spot various species of birds, deer, and other wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
3. Buena Vista Lake
A reservoir offering fishing, boating, and camping opportunities.
- Water Activities: Water activities like fishing and boating are popular here.
- Camping Facilities: Overnight camping is available with necessary permits.
- Scenic Location: Surrounded by hills and farmland, providing a picturesque setting.
4. Sequoia National Forest
A vast forest offering camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Natural Beauty: Home to towering sequoia trees and diverse wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
- Camping Facilities: Overnight camping is available with necessary permits.
5. Frazier Park
A mountain town offering hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities.
- Seasonal Activities: Offers both summer (hiking and camping) and winter (skiing) activities.
- Scenic Location: Surrounded by mountains and forests, providing a breathtaking view.
- Camping Facilities: Overnight camping is available with necessary permits.
6. Horne Lake
A secluded lake offering fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities.
- Seclusion: Less crowded compared to other lakes in the area.
- Water Activities: Activities like fishing and canoeing are available.
- Camping Facilities: Overnight camping is allowed with necessary permits.
7. Tehachapi Mountains
A mountain range offering hiking, rock climbing, and scenic views.
- Scenic Location: Stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
- Rock Climbing Opportunities: Offers rock climbing opportunities for experienced climbers.
8. McKittrick Canyon
A scenic canyon offering hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Scenic Location: Beautiful canyon with unique geological formations.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
- Wildlife Opportunities: Opportunity to spot various species of birds, deer, and other wildlife.
9. Mount Pinos
The highest peak in Southern California, offering hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities.
- Seasonal Activities: Offers both summer (hiking and camping) and winter (skiing) activities.
- Scenic Location: Stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape from the summit.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
10. Ridge Route National Recreation Trail
A scenic trail offering off-road vehicle exploration and camping opportunities.
- Scenic Location: Beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Off-Road Vehicle Opportunities: Allows for off-road vehicle exploration.
- Camping Facilities: Overnight camping is available with necessary permits.
11. San Emidio Cave State Natural Reserve
A natural reserve offering cave exploration and hiking opportunities.
- Cave Exploration: Unique opportunity to explore a natural limestone cave.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
- Historical Significance: Site of the San Emidio ghost town and gold mining history.
12. Sand Canyon
A scenic canyon offering hiking, horseback riding, and camping opportunities.
- Scenic Location: Beautiful canyon with unique geological formations.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
- Camping Facilities: Overnight camping is available with necessary permits.
13. Tehachapi Loop Railroad
A unique railway feature offering train tours and educational experiences.
- Educational Experience: Provides insight into the history of railroads.
- Scenic Location: Offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
- Train Tours: Tours available for a unique transportation experience.
14. Tehachapi Willow Springs Discovery Center
A museum offering educational experiences about local history and wildlife.
- Educational Experience: Provides insight into the history, geology, and wildlife of the area.
- Scenic Location: Located near beautiful Tehachapi Mountains.
- Interactive Exhibits: Interactive exhibits make learning fun and engaging.
15. Pioneer Cemetery
A historical cemetery offering a glimpse into the area's pioneer history.
- Historical Significance: Provides a unique perspective on Bakersfield's early settlement.
- Peaceful Setting: Offers a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
- Self-Guided Tour: A self-guided tour allows visitors to explore at their own pace.