Best Places to Kayak Near Bakersfield, CA

13 public launch points within 50 miles of Bakersfield, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.

13 nearby13 Lakes
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Top Picks Near Bakersfield

A couple of people on water skis in the water1

Brite Valley Recreation Ara

Standout kayak fishing on Brite Valley Lake

LakeBeginner33 mi away
person in black shirt and black shorts riding on white and red kayak on blue sea2

Lake Isabella

Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding

LakeBeginner36 mi away
a group of kayaks sitting on top of a sandy beach3

Lake Isabella (Engineers Point )

A top-rated lake launch on Lake Isabella

LakeBeginner35 mi away
a woman in a boat

Lake Ming

California · 9.2 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a woman in a boat

Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area

California · 17.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a woman in a boat

Buena Vista Concessions

California · 18.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
Kayakers paddling through a dramatic desert canyon at sunset

Lake Woollomes

California · 26.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A couple of people on water skis in the water

Brite Valley Recreation Ara

California · 33.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a group of kayaks sitting on top of a sandy beach

Lake Isabella (Engineers Point )

California · 35.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
body of water near trees during daytime

Lake Isabella Patrol Boat Dock (French Gulch)

California · 35.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
red kayak on body of water near green mountains during daytime

French Gulch Marina

California · 35.6 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
person in black shirt and black shorts riding on white and red kayak on blue sea

Lake Isabella

California · 36.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
body of water near trees during daytime

Lake Isabella RV Resort

California · 37.6 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
woman in red shirt riding white kayak on lake during daytime

Mike's Kern Valley Marina

California · 37.6 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
woman in red shirt riding white kayak on lake during daytime

Dean's North Fork Marina

California · 37.8 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a person swimming in a lake

Success Lake Tue and Rocky Hill Recreation Areas

California · 47.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner

Paddling Near Other Cities

Widen your search to towns within an hour of Bakersfield.

Edison, CA9 miLamont, CA11 miShafter, CA17 miArvin, CA17 miTupman, CA20 miMc Farland, CA23 miWasco, CA23 miWoody, CA24 mi

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Bakersfield, CA?

Top picks near Bakersfield include Brite Valley Recreation Ara, Lake Isabella, Lake Isabella (Engineers Point ). In total there are 13 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes.

What types of paddling can I do near Bakersfield?

Near Bakersfield you'll find opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Most locations offer beginner-friendly conditions with public boat ramp access.

Are there free kayak launches near Bakersfield?

Yes! Most public boat ramps near Bakersfield are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.