Kern National Wildlife Refuge

Kern National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in California's San Joaquin Valley that combines wetlands, dry grasslands, and natural habitats for wildlife. The landscape shifts between open water and vegetation-covered ground, creating diverse spaces for birds and other animals.

This area was once part of Tulare Lake, one of the largest freshwater wetland systems in the American West. Agricultural water management in the mid-1900s reshaped the landscape, which led to the creation of the refuge.

This place serves as a critical stopover for birds traveling between North and South America. You can witness the sheer scale of this migration when thousands of birds arrive and depart during the seasons.

You can drive through the refuge on a looped route with unpaved roads, keeping to a slow pace to see wildlife. Pick clear weather days and visit during daylight hours for the best experience.

The refuge closes to regular visitors during certain months each year to allow exclusive use for hunting activities. This practice helps protect nesting birds and supports sustainable wildlife management.

Location: California

Inception: 1960

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/kern

GPS coordinates: 35.74580,-119.61800

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:25