Kernville Travel Guide

Discover the top places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Kernville. Learn about the culture and customs and the best time to visit Kernville for outdoor adventures and scenic views.


Introduction to Kernville

Nestled in the San Joaquin Valley of California, Kernville is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range as its backdrop, this small town offers visitors a plethora of year-round adventure activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, river rafting, and hunting. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Kernville.

List of Places to Visit in Kernville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Historic Downtown Kernville: Take a walk through the charming buildings housing antique and souvenir shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

  • Kern Valley Museum: Learn about the history of Kernville and its surrounding areas through exhibits and artifacts dating back to the mid-1800s.

Natural Attractions of Kernville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kern River: Known for its world-class whitewater rafting, the Kern River offers visitors the opportunity for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

  • Sequoia National Forest: Kernville is surrounded by Sequoia National Forest, offering visitors miles of hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, scenic views, and wildlife sightings.

  • Lake Isabella: A popular spot for fishing, camping, and boating, Lake Isabella offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is the perfect spot for a leisurely picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kernville

  • Trail of 100 Giants: This trail leads hikers through groves of giant sequoias and offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

  • Limestone Campground Trail: This 6.5-mile trail is popular with mountain bikers and offers scenic views of the Kern River Valley.

Best Things to Do in Kernville: Activities and Tours

  • River Rafting Adventures: Whitewater rafting on the Kern River is a must-do activity for any adventure seeker. Join a guided tour for a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

  • Fishing: The Kern River is home to a variety of trout species, making it a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can participate in guided fishing tours or rent equipment to try their luck on their own.

  • Hunting: Hunters can participate in big game hunting for deer, bear, and turkey in the surrounding forest areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kernville

Day Activity
Monday Visit the Kern Valley Museum and explore the historic downtown
Tuesday Take a guided river rafting tour on the Kern River
Wednesday Hike the Trail of 100 Giants and have a picnic lunch
Thursday Relax and enjoy the scenery at Lake Isabella
Friday Take a mountain biking trip on the Limestone Campground Trail
Saturday Go fishing on the Kern River
Sunday Hunt for big game in the surrounding forest areas

Food and Drink Scene of Kernville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Basque Food: Basque cuisine, known for its hearty portions and family-style dining, can be found at many restaurants in Kernville.

  • BBQ: Several restaurants offer delicious BBQ dishes, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.

Local Beverages

  • Local Wines: Visit one of the nearby wineries for a tasting of locally produced wines.

  • Craft Beer: Several local breweries offer a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.

Where to Stay in Kernville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kern Lodge: Located on the banks of the Kern River, Kern Lodge offers basic accommodations in a beautiful setting.

  • Pine Cone Inn: This cozy motel is located in downtown Kernville and is within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

  • Kern Riverfront Lodge: This lodge offers modern amenities in a rustic setting and is located just steps from the Kern River.

What to Buy in Kernville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Antiques and Collectibles: Browse the antique shops in historic downtown for unique finds.

  • Locally Made Crafts: Handcrafted items, such as pottery, paintings, and jewelry, can be found at many of the souvenir shops in Kernville.

Local Culture and Customs of Kernville

Kernville is a small town that values its outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Visitors should respect the environment and leave no trace behind. Additionally, it is important to observe local customs and traditions, including the Basque culture that is prominent in the area.

Best Time to Visit Kernville

The best time to visit Kernville is during the spring and fall seasons when temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer is peak tourist season, and temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities more challenging. Winter can be cold and snowy, making some areas inaccessible. However, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kernville

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trace behind.

  • Observe local customs and traditions.

  • Participate in outdoor adventure activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural resources.

  • Ignore posted signs and warnings.

  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kernville

Visitors to Kernville should be aware of the dangers associated with outdoor adventure activities, including river rafting, hiking, and hunting. It is important to follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate gear. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the potential for wildfires and should follow any fire safety guidelines.

Health in Kernville

Altitude sickness can be a concern for visitors to Kernville due to its location in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Visitors should be prepared with appropriate medications and should take time to acclimate to the altitude. Additionally, ticks carrying Lyme disease are prevalent in the area and should be avoided through proper clothing and repellents.

Getting to Kernville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kernville is located approximately two hours north of Los Angeles and can be accessed via car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Kernville

  • Meadows Field Airport in Bakersfield, California, is approximately 50 miles southwest of Kernville.

  • Los Angeles International Airport is approximately 150 miles south of Kernville.

Bus Stations Near Kernville

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Bakersfield, California, is approximately 50 miles southwest of Kernville.

  • Kern Transit Bus Station in Lake Isabella, California, is approximately 15 miles east of Kernville.

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at both Meadows Field Airport and Los Angeles International Airport.

How to Get Around in Kernville

Kernville is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or bicycle. Additionally, there are several car rental options available for visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Kernville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sequoia National Park: Just a short drive from Kernville, Sequoia National Park offers visitors the chance to see giant sequoia trees, pristine lakes, and high-altitude hiking trails.

  • Death Valley National Park: Known for being the hottest and driest place in North America, Death Valley National Park offers otherworldly landscapes and unique hiking and camping opportunities.

Conclusion

Kernville is a small town that packs a big punch when it comes to outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. With its variety of activities and natural attractions, Kernville is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you are looking to raft down the Kern River or hike the Trail of 100 Giants, Kernville offers something for everyone to enjoy.