Kern River County Park

Kern River County Park is a sprawling 1,012-acre recreational complex located just north of Bakersfield, California. Established in 1929, this expansive park offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and natural attractions centered around the Kern River.

The park's centerpiece is Hart Memorial Park, a 370-acre area featuring two lakes and three canals. Visitors can enjoy picnicking on the grassy lawns shaded by large trees, or explore the park via walking paths that wind through the grounds. The lakes provide opportunities for fishing, with species like trout, catfish, and bass available.

Kern River County Park encompasses several distinct recreational areas. Lake Ming, a 140-acre lake primarily used for motorboats and occasional sailboats, offers waterfront picnic areas and a 50-space campground. The California Living Museum (CALM), a 14-acre zoo and living museum within the park, houses 80 animal species native to California and showcases plants representing different regions of Kern County.

For golf enthusiasts, the park includes the Kern River Golf Course, an 18-hole public course set on hilly terrain adjacent to the Kern River. The park also features extensive sports facilities, including a complex of 20 soccer fields.

Camping options are available at the Kern River Campground, which offers 50 campsites spread across two sections. These sites provide basic amenities for both tent and RV camping, though they do not include hookups.

Throughout the year, Kern River County Park serves as a popular destination for picnicking, hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Bakersfield makes it an accessible retreat for city dwellers seeking outdoor recreation and natural scenery.