Lakes near Bakersfield are very special for its residents as these lakes are the source of water recreations around the city. During summer months, these waterbodies become more illuminating and more crowd gather at these natural and man-made wonders. A stay at any of the lakes near Bakersfield is great to enjoy lots of outdoor activities. And not only the amazing recreational facilities, but the magic of nature can also be enjoyed when you are discovering these fantastic Bakersfield lakes. Also, the lakes are perfect getaway destinations to celebrate your upcoming family vacation!
So, here are some of the best lakes near Bakersfield you must visit in your next vacation. Remember, some are great for swimming, some are great for fishing and some are great for both including many other recreational opportunities. Trust me, you will not get bored when exploring these amazing waterbodies.
1. Lake Ming
Lake Ming is only 15 minutes driving distance from Bakersfield. The lake is located in the Kern River County Park. For family trips, it is one of the best lakes near Bakersfield.
The 104-acre Lake Ming is allowed for boating, fishing, kayaking and canoeing activities. There are some amazing natural hiking trails, you must explore! And camping in the nearby ground will surely increase your vacation charm into another level. Visitors are highly recommended to spend one night here to enjoy the camping fun.
Many visitors prefer swimming in the Kern River. Though it’s not safe to swim in the river as the river current is very high. Nearby the lake, there are picnic tables and grills for giving the visitors picnic ambience.
Also Read: Most Gorgeous Lakes To Visit in Georgia.
2. Lake Webb
Lake Webb is known for offering stunning recreational opportunities. If you are a great adventure seeker, turn your head to this beautiful reservoir. Unlike the previous one, Lake Webb is a man-made lake, specially created for offering huge recreational facilities to the residents.
This man-made reservoir is located on the lakebed of the former Buena Vista Lake. And it is a part of the Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area. It is a hotspot area that offers motorboating and jet skiing facilities. Must try these engaging activities in Lake Webb when you are visiting Bakersfield. The lake is one of the most popular spots in Kern County. There is a designated water-ski area as well on Lake Webb.
3. Isabella Lake
Isabella Lake is a pretty lake located in Kern County. You will fall in love with the surrounding area during your visit to this mountainous lake. The lake was created as a result of the earthen Isabella Dam and the lake is fed by Kern River.
For fishing, Isabella Lake is one of the best places to turn your head. Other engaging water activities are swimming, kayaking and water rafting. You’ll discover many visitors are exploring the adventurous mountain-hikes. To be honest, an experienced hiker will never miss the chance from exploring one of the most popular hikes in the county.
There are beaches nearby where families love to spend some relaxed time. And don’t forget to visit the small town. It’s a good place to loiter.
Related: Best Swimming Lakes in Washington You Must Visit.
4. Hart Park Lake
Hart Park Lake is a dream destination for any active angler. The lake is located inside Hart Memorial Park and it is one of Kern County’s oldest parks. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth basses and many other types of fish species. And there is no need to say that Hart Park Lake is one of the best places in the city where you can experience great fishing.
Around the lake, there are many amenities available like playgrounds, nice walking trails and a disk golf course. The spot attracts lots of families the year-round. Your kids will certainly make many friends and lots of priceless experiences! Spend some amazing moments with your family boating or picnicking in and around the lake. Yes, this amazing lake also offers nice picnic areas where you can enjoy a delicious packed meal.
Related: Best Lakes in Colorado Springs You Must Visit in Your Next Trip.
5. Lake Evans
Lake Evans is another beautiful man-made lake located inside Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area. This recreational area is too popular for its two glorious lakes. The one is Lake Evans and the other one is the much larger Lake Webb. If you want to avoid excess crowd, Lake Evans is one the best spots inside this recreational area. But don’t miss the chance to witness both of them.
The lake is located in a flat basin and has 2.5 miles of shoreline. All the engaging activities visitors love to enjoy immensely with their dear ones include fishing, boating and sailing. Unlike Lake Webb, this smaller lake permits boating at maximum speed of 5 mph. The lake also has two boat ramps. For a newbie paddler, Lake Evans is a better option.
If we talk about the surroundings, it is very scenic and the lake is surrounded by small trees and bushes. And the cushiony grasses picnic areas on the northern side of the lake will give you the feel of complete peacefulness!
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6. Success Lake
Success Lake is approximately 8 miles east of Porteville, California. The lake is a result of the construction of the Richard L. Schafer Dam. This is a well-known reservoir not only for its recreational opportunities, but also the lake plays the role for multipurpose facilities.
This scenic lake provides great fishing and boating pleasure along with the nice views of Sierra Nevada in the background. All the popular activities include boating, fishing, horseback riding, camping and picnicking.
The best thing is you could experience a great wildlife viewing as the lake is considered to be one of the best bird-watching sites in Tulare County. Attending several environmental, educational programs and classes are other fun things to participate, explore and enjoy. And many solitary lovers come here to simply sit down and relax in this natural setting.
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7. Ironwood Ranch
Ironwood Ranch is a private property. Inside the property, there are three lakes, and the property offers one of the best lakes near Bakersfield for water skiers and wake boarders. The inside Ironwood Ranch Ski Club is another attraction that makes the spot more popular to visit.
With the year-round amazing recreational facilities, there is also a playground perfect for everyone inside the land.
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8. Woollomes Lake
Woollomes Lake is one of the most scenic spots and the reservoir is used for irrigation of the surroundings area. The entire land is perfectly embellished with almond groves and grape vineyards.
The lake with its four mile shoreline is perfect for having a peaceful stroll with your family and friends. Must go for swimming in the clear water. But remember, there are no life-guards available here. And be vigilant on your children when they are playing in the water. Non-powered boating is available and it’s limited to sailboats, canoes and rowboats only. Remember, boats must enter and leave the lake at the boat launching ramp.
Unfortunately, no camping is allowed here. But you don’t need to be sad at all. There are many things to explore here. A large covered BBQ area and a group picnic area are provided. It is a great spot for family outings.
Related: Best Reasons To Visit The Blue Lake in New Zealand.
9. Cub Lake
Cub Lake is a 9.75-acre beautiful lake located off Bear Valley Road. This lake is another spot where peacefulness, serenity and nature are the forces who dominate the area. During summer months, the lake receives most of the visitors.
For family outing, you could definitely pick Cub Lake. Visitors can enjoy picturesque picnic areas, and walking paths. In the adjacent area there’s a dog park. And your kids will find fun in the playground area. Though older kids could enjoy the outdoor basketball court.
During summertime, it’s an illuminating place with “Moonlight Movies”. Families come to enjoy the colorful events that are hosted throughout the year. There is more to enjoy in Cub Lake. Fishing and boating are popular water activities.
Address: 28999 Lower Valley Rd, Tehachapi, CA 93561
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10. Four Island Lake
Four Island Lake is a 37.5-acre lake. A visit to this well-kept reservoir is a must when you’re exploring the surrounding area. The lake is located along the Oak Tree Golf Course. And it is one of the most popular lakes among fishing enthusiasts.
The recreation area is attainable with swimming and boating. Sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding are common fun things among the visitors. Four Island Lake is a highly recommended park for great family fun.
Equipment are more to explore. The park is also home to fishing docs, volleyball court, playground, picnic area and launch ramps.
Address: 29641 Pinedale Dr, Tehachapi, CA 93561
11. Buena Vista Lake
Buena Vista Lake is a former fresh water lake, and also, the second largest lake in the Tulare Lake Basin in previous time, and was located in Kern County, California, in the Tulare Lake Basin. In today’s time, the land is occupied by other famous lakes as Buena Vista Lake is almost dried up.
During your visit to the area, don’t forget to check out the California Historic Landmarks in Kern County. The place is home to one of California’s most visited historical landmarks, the California State Capitol.
12. Tulare Lake
Tulare Lake, also known as Tache Lake is a unique lake in California. You can’t visit the lake anytime. In fact, Tulare Lake is almost dried up and is only visible when it reappears after high rainfall or heavy snow melt. In 2023, the Tulare Lake did appear because of its increase in water level.
Once the largest freshwater lake, Tulare Lake is located in the southern San Joaquin Valley, California. The previous years when Tulare Lake appeared are in 1997 and 1998.
13. The Park at River Walk
The Park at River Walk, also known as River Walk Park, is home to two beautiful lakes. It’s a public park and is located close to the Kern River Bike Trail. Though these lakes are small, but still going to the park and enjoying the lakes along with other activities and attractions are some of the best things to do in Bakersfield.
The River Walk Park is stretched in 32 acres area with two lakes connected by a stream. The lakes are popular fishing spots in the area.
Moreover, there are picnic areas, many individual picnic tables, wooden bridges, and in the centerpiece there is the Bright House Amphitheater.
The neighbourhood of the park is very beautiful and you can enjoy it differently in different seasons. There is abundance of flowering trees and creates unique and beautiful look each season.
14. Castaic Lake
Located 74.5 miles away from Bakersfield and in Los Angeles, Castaic Lake is a part of Castaic Lake State Recreation Area. The lake is a result for the construction of Castaic Dam on Castaic Creek.
With the surface elevation of 1,500 feet (460 m) above the sea level, the 320,000 acre-ft Castaic Lake offers amazing bass fishing opportunities among anglers.
Plus, the reservoir has a lower lagoon along with a swim beach. It is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend annually. And fishing opportunity is open year-round in both the upper and lower lake.
15. Lake Elsinore
If you’re looking for an amazing road trip from Bakersfield, then choose going to Lake Elsinore. It takes approximately three hours driving time to reach there. Lake Elsinore is located in Riverside County in California.
Located east of the Santa Ana Mountains, the 3,000-acre lake is a natural fresh water lake, also one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in Southern California, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
The reservoir’s original name was Laguna Grande. Later, it was renamed for the town of Elsinore.
A long trip to Lake Elsinore with your family is a nice way to brighten your weekend celebration.
16. Koehn Lake
Koehn Lake is an endorheic lake in eastern Kern County, California. The almost dry lake is located in the Fremont Valley of the Mojave Desert.
The lake is 5 miles long and 3 miles wide and is most popular for the Koehn Lake Trail.
17. Lee Lake
Covering the 169.1 miles distance from Bakersfield, you will get Lee Lake in Riverside County in California.
The Lee Lake is approximately 58 sq. acre in size and lies at an elevation of 1,122 feet (342 m) above the sea level. The reservoir was created for the construction by the Lee Lake 818-002 Dam across Temescal Creek.
The lake is a popular fishing destination among active anglers. There are also many nearby fishing lakes, you can explore in the surrounding area.
18. Chubb Lake
The 15 sq. acre Chubb Lake is in Nevada County, California. The lake is a perfect weekend getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Popular activities include fishing, swimming, canoeing, sailing and rowboating.
Camping is available here.
19. Lake Spaulding
Though the distance is really huge, but after reaching to Lake Spaulding, crossing almost 5 hours and 20 minutes driving distance, from Bakersfield, you can reward you and your family members so many amazing things to explore and experience!
Originally built with the purpose of hydraulic mining in 1912, the beautiful Lake Spaulding lies at an elevation of 5,014 feet. The majestic views of the terrain will really make you fall in love with the entire land.
For your family outing, this is one of the best lakes in Nevada County you may choose. The lake lies in a glacier carved bowl of granite and offers spectacular views of granite boulders. Also, the lake is surrounded by large pine trees.
Popular water activities in Lake Spaulding are swimming, fishing and boating. All types of boating are allowed here. you can fish either from the boat or the shore. Both are very rewarding and one of the fun things to do in Nevada County.
Other engaging fun things around Lake Spaulding include hiking, camping, picnicking and backpacking.
20. Elizabeth Lake
Elizabeth Lake, located within the Angeles National Forest, is a truly beautiful lake located in northwestern Los Angeles County, southern California. Originally a natural sag pond, the reservoir lies in the Sierra Pelona Mountains.
Elizabeth Lake was interestingly created through the motion of the Earth’s tectonic plates along the San Andreas Fault.
The lake is popular with fishing and swimming. Plus, the surrounding area is very scenic and perfect for enjoying a peaceful day with your close one in serenity!
FAQs
1. Why can’t you swim in Lake Ming Bakersfield CA?
In Lake Ming, swimming is strictly prohibited. The water has been detected with harmful bacteria, and it may cause an itchy rash. Even many water skiers faced the trouble.
2. Can you kayak at Lake Ming Bakersfield CA?
Lake Ming is a perfect pick for kayakers. Kayaking is a very popular, safe and fun activity at Lake Ming. Also, the lake is equally popular for other water activities like fishing, sailing, waterskiing and boating.
3. Does Lake Ming have fish?
Lake Ming is a popular destination among anglers. The lake is stocked with Crappie, Catfish, largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and stocked Rainbow Trout.
4. When can you fish at Lake Ming?
There are some fishing regulations anglers have to follow to fish at Lake Ming. A valid CA State Fishing License is required. Still, some other rules are there. Be aware of the rules. And then go for fishing. The lake provides fun fishing opportunity throughout the year.
5. Can you swim in Lake Evans?
Swimming in Lake Evans is not that much popular. The engaging activities include fishing, boating and sailing. And swimming is allowed in posted swim lagoons. You might encounter many visitors are enjoying a safe swimming in that area.
6. Where is Lake Evans?
Lake Evans is located in Kern County, California. It’s a popular man-made recreational lake primarily designated for sailing, boating and fishing. Lake Evans is part of the Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area. Though it’s the smaller of two lakes, it’s popularity is still high.
7. Is Lake Evans stocked?
Lake Evans is stocked with a variety of fish species. Common fish species include Black Crappie, Rainbow Trout, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass and Yellow Perch. In winter, an influx of Rainbow Trout is visible. In summer, the lake is stocked with Catfish.
8. Is it safe to swim in lakes?
During summer months, swimming in a lake is truly one of the best feelings! The entire body goes to relaxation after taking a deep swim in the lake. But still, people need to remember that it’s not always safe to swim in lakes. There might be harmful bacteria in many of these waterbodies. So, it’s not safe either. Plus, stay out of the water if there is discoloration or bad smell in the lake.
9. Where is Buena Vista lake?
The location of Buena Vista Lake is in San Joaquin Valley, Kern County, California.
10. Is Lake Buena Vista a man-made lake?
Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area is the popular recreational area and not a lake by itself. The recreational site is manmade. Here visitors could enjoy two large and beautiful lakes. These lakes include Lake Evans and the much larger Lake Webb.
