Discover Bakersfield, California
Traveling to Bakersfield, California, unveils a dynamic destination in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. Bakersfield’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its rich agricultural heritage, evident in the surrounding farmlands and roadside produce stands offering farm-fresh delights. The city’s historic downtown district beckons with its charming boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries, inviting travelers to explore its hidden gems and immerse themselves in the local culture. From outdoor adventures along the Kern River to the renowned Buck Owens Crystal Palace, which celebrates the city’s country music roots, Bakersfield offers a blend of experiences that captivate and inspire.
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Three Fun Facts About Bakersfield
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
The Crystal Palace, built by country music legend Buck Owens, is a renowned music venue and restaurant in Bakersfield. It pays homage to the city’s country music heritage and is a popular destination for locals and tourists.
Basque Culture
Bakersfield has a vibrant Basque community, with several Basque restaurants and cultural centers throughout the city. Basque cuisine is a beloved culinary tradition in Bakersfield, known for its hearty and family-style dining experience.
Country Music Roots
Bakersfield is often called the “Nashville of the West” due to its significant influence on the country music genre. The Bakersfield Sound, characterized by its raw and honky-tonk style, emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, with artists like Buck Owens and Merle Haggard leading the way.
Must See Attractions
Kern County Museum
Speciality Museum
The Kern County Museum showcases the area’s rich history. It has over 56 historic structures, including a pioneer village and an oil exhibit.
The Park at River Walk
Nature & parks
This park is your go-to spot with its serene bike trails and expansive green spaces. If you’re here on Saturday, you might catch a concert or two at the outdoor amphitheater!
California Living Museum (CALM)
Speciality Museums
CALM is the perfect spot to meet some rescued wildlife and learn about conservation. Don’t miss the chance to say hi to the local Californian species!
Lakes Near Bakersfield
Lake Ming
Lake Ming Road Bakersfield, California
Just a stone’s throw away, Lake Ming is a local favorite. Think about it: only 15 minutes to swap city sounds for nature’s playground. Ready for fishing or kayaking? You got it!
Distance from Bakersfield: 13 miles
Activities: Fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, camping, swimming
Buena Vista Lake
13601 Ironbark Road Bakersfield, California
Approximately 30 miles southwest of Bakersfield, Buena Vista Lake is a natural lake and reservoir known for its recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and camping.
Distance from Bakersfield: 30 miles
Activities: Fishing, kayaking, picnicking
Kern River Canyon
14000 Sierra Way, Kernville, California
The Kern River Canyon, located northeast of Bakersfield, is home to several smaller lakes and reservoirs, including Hart Park Lake. The lakes in Kern River Canyon offer fishing and boating opportunities in a scenic setting.
Distance from Bakersfield: 53 miles
Activities: Paddleboarding, tubing, fishing
Secret Fishing Spots Near Bakersfield
Lake Isabella
Highway 178 & Highway 155 Lake Isabella, California
Less than an hour’s drive northeast, you’ll find Lake Isabella. It’s not just the run-of-the-mill lake; here, you can reel various game fish like largemouth bass, trout, crappie, catfish, and the occasional landlocked Chinook salmon.
Fishing: Shoreline, boat, kayak
Species: Trout, bass, crappie, catfish, salmon
Experience Tip: Early morning or just before dusk are prime times to catch the big ones!
Riverwalk Park
11298 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, California
Looking for something within city limits? Try the fishing area at Riverwalk Park, where the city often restocks fish. It’s kid-friendly and perfect for a spontaneous fishing day out.
Fishing: Shoreline
Species: Trout, catfish, bass, sunfish
Local’s Suggestion: Pack a picnic; there’s plenty of green space to relax after you’ve caught your fill.
Lake Ming
Lake Ming Road Bakersfield, California
A bit of sunshine and fresh air do wonders, and Lake Ming is the ideal spot to find both. Plus, it’s a popular place to cast your line.
Fishing: Shoreline, kayak
Species: Bass, catfish, bluegill, sunfish, crappie
Best Hiking Trails Within One Hour From Bakersfield
Hart Park Trail
Alfred Harrell Hwy, Bakersfield, California
Hart Park Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a scenic escape into the natural beauty of the Kern River Valley. This picturesque trail winds through Hart Memorial Park, a sprawling oasis of greenery and tranquility nestled along the banks of the Kern River. As hikers and nature lovers traverse the well-maintained paths, they are treated to breathtaking views of the river, lush landscapes, and towering cottonwood trees.
Distance: 3.6 miles
Type: Out & back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 152 m
Time to Complete: Two hours
Bakersfield Bluffs
Panorama, Bakersfield, California
The Bakersfield Bluffs, a prominent geological feature overlooking the Kern River Valley in Bakersfield, offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. These towering cliffs, carved over centuries by the meandering Kern River, provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the sprawling valley below and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains.
Distance: 3.2 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 84 m
Time to Complete: 1.5 hours
Mount Pinos Trail
Cuddy Valley Rd, Frazier Park, California
As one of the highest points in Ventura County, Mount Pinos stands at an elevation of over 8,800 feet, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail winds through pine forests and alpine meadows and is a popular destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and stargazers alike. During the spring and summer, the trail is adorned with vibrant wildflowers, while in the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting snowshoers and cross-country skiers.
Distance: 3.7 miles
Type: Out & back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 158 m
Time to Complete: 1.5 hours
Best Golf Courses around Bakersfield
The Links at Riverlakes Ranch
5201 Riverlakes Dr, Bakersfield, California
With its meticulously manicured fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning water features, the course provides a picturesque backdrop for a day on the Links. Beyond golf, the club features an array of amenities, including a clubhouse with dining options, a pro shop, and practice facilities.
Holes: 18
Designer: Ron Fream
Highlights: Friendly atmosphere, often available at a bargain
Kern River Golf Course
Rudal Rd, Bakersfield, California
This 18-hole course showcases the natural beauty of the Kern River Valley with its lush fairways, rolling hills, and majestic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Golfers can test their skills on the well-manicured greens, navigate challenging bunkers, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding scenery. The course’s layout balances playability and difficulty, making it suitable for casual rounds and competitive tournaments.
Holes: 18
Designer: William P. Bell
Highlight: Well-kept and casual, perfect for a family outing
Buena Vista Golf Course
10256 Golf Course Rd, Taft, California
Nestled in the heart of Taft, California, Buena Vista Golf Course offers a charming and inviting destination for golfers of all levels. Designed to challenge and delight players, the course features well-manicured fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and small, undulating greens. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, Buena Vista Golf Course provides an ideal setting for both casual rounds and competitive play.
Holes: 9
Designer: William F. Bell
Tips on Renting a Vacation Property in Bakersfield
Inspect Photos Carefully
Look closely at the property photos to ensure they accurately represent the rental. Pay attention to details like furnishings, cleanliness, and the overall condition of the space.
Check Reviews
Read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of the property’s condition, cleanliness, and overall experience. Websites like Lake, VRBO, and TripAdvisor are great resources for this.
Consider Insurance
Depending on the length and cost of your stay, it may be wise to consider travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected cancellations, damages, or emergencies.
Understand Policies
Familiarize yourself with the rental policies, including check-in/check-out times, cancellation policies, and any additional fees or rules. Knowing these in advance can prevent misunderstandings later on.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bakersfield
To find budget-friendly rentals, compare prices on platforms like Lake and Airbnb. Sometimes, adjusting your travel dates or choosing a rental just a little bit away from the city center can lead to better deals.
When bringing your pet, look for pet-friendly listings—Airbnb and Lake have filters for this. Consider the additional fees or deposits often required, and make sure to respect the rental’s rules regarding pets to avoid any issues.
Renting directly from owners could enhance your stay with a personal touch—think customized recommendations and better communication. Vacation rentals by owners often provide a more individualized, homey experience.
Absolutely! Many vacation rental listings, such as those on Lake or Airbnb, offer pools. With Bakersfield’s warm climate, a rental with a pool is a popular choice, ensuring you can cool off and relax in style.
You can check out Lake, Airbnb, and VacationRenter for various options in Bakersfield. These websites are known for their extensive lists of properties, where you can find everything from cozy downtown homes to apartments with all the amenities.