KERN COUNTY, California. Kern County spans Bakersfield’s music history, the southern Sierra, railroad engineering and Mojave Desert color. Our independent California58 itinerary selects places for cultural, natural and community interest. It is meant both for travelers and for local residents rediscovering familiar surroundings.
Editor’s note: this is an editorial list, not a tally of reader votes, and positions cannot be purchased by advertisers. Check operating hours, public access, weather and reservations with each destination before visiting.
10 noteworthy places to explore in Kern County
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Kern River Parkway
Walk or cycle an urban river corridor in Bakersfield.
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Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
Explore Bakersfield’s country-music history when the venue is open.
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California Living Museum
Learn about the state’s wildlife near Bakersfield.
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Wind Wolves Preserve
Walk designated foothill routes subject to seasonal rules.
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Kern River Canyon
See dramatic scenery without entering dangerous river currents.
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Tehachapi Loop
Watch an engineering landmark from public overlooks.
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Red Rock Canyon State Park
Explore red-and-white layered desert geology.
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Mojave Air and Space Port area
Discover aerospace history outside restricted facilities.
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Lake Isabella
Explore reservoir scenery and water-safety notices.
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Fort Tejon State Historic Park
Visit a historic mountain-pass military site.
Planning a day or a weekend
Divide Bakersfield, the Sierra and Mojave sections into different day trips. Begin with Kern River Parkway if your schedule allows, consider Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace next, and save California Living Museum for a longer stay. Some places may require advance arrangements; an itinerary is not a promise of same-day access.
Useful local information for residents
Visit our permanent Kern County profile for local government, city links, services and county facts; consult California Reports and Permits for records and applications, and review road conditions before driving.
Community voting: what belongs at number one?
California58 is extending its registered-reader rankings across California’s counties. Reader rankings will be identified separately from this selection; sponsored content cannot influence voting order. Follow us for the county ballots and suggest a favorite when nominations open.
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Verify before you go
Start with Visit California, California State Parks and official destination operators. Local rules, fees, water quality, road access and seasonal conditions can change.
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