Day Trips from Bakersfield
← All Bakersfield day tripsDay Trips from Bakersfield: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Bakersfield, CA. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Bakersfield
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
USA
Just 1 hr 50 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.9 stars by 2,118 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Alabama Hills National Scenic Area
Lone Pine, CA 93545
Just 2 hrs 39 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wind Wolves Preserve
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Just 47 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.8 stars by 543 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Placerita Canyon Nature Center
Newhall, CA 91321
Just 1 hr 29 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.8 stars by 1,197 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Topanga State Park
Topanga, CA 90290
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 stars by 1,873 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
CA 91302, USA
Just 1 hr 54 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 stars by 7,256 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Prime Desert Woodland Preserve
Lancaster, CA 93536
Just 1 hr 33 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 stars by 1,120 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Cantil, CA 93519
Just 1 hr 17 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 stars by 1,783 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pismo Preserve
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Just 2 hrs 20 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 stars by 1,013 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve
Van Nuys, CA 91436
Just 1 hr 36 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.6 stars by 1,113 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kaweah Oaks Preserve - Sequoia Riverlands Trust
Exeter, CA 93221
Just 1 hr 22 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.6 stars by 350 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve
Los Osos, CA 93402
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.6 stars by 242 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Bakersfield
What are the best state parks near Bakersfield, CA?
The best state parks near Bakersfield offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Bakersfield?
Most state parks near Bakersfield charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Bakersfield are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Bakersfield offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Bakersfield?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Bakersfield. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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