County of kern
california
History & Founding
Located in the southern portion of California, this county boasts a rich history intertwined with the state's agricultural and industrial development. Established in 1866, it was carved from Tulare County and named in honor of Edward Kern, a surveyor and explorer who mapped the Kern River in 1849. Kern’s expedition was fraught with challenges, including a near-fatal encounter with Native Americans and a desperate search for food after their supplies dwindled. Legend has it that Kern, facing starvation, was saved by a local Yokuts tribe who shared their provisions – a poignant reminder of the complex relationship between settlers and indigenous populations in California's early years. The county’s formation reflected the growing population and agricultural expansion in the region, becoming a vital link between the coastal areas and the interior valleys.
Geography & Landscape
The county sprawls across a diverse landscape, encompassing nearly 8,400 square miles, making it the third largest county in California by area. Situated in the southern San Joaquin Valley, the terrain shifts dramatically from the arid foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains to the flat, fertile plains. The Kern River, after which the county is named, winds its way through the region, providing a vital water source. Several smaller rivers and streams also contribute to the area's water network. Large bodies of water are less common, though Lake Isabella, formed by a dam on the Kern River, provides recreational opportunities. The climate is generally hot and dry, characterized by long, sunny summers and mild winters, although temperatures can vary significantly with elevation. The Tehachapi Mountains, known for their wind energy potential, dominate the western portion of the county.
Economy & Communities
The county is a tapestry of communities, ranging from bustling urban centers to small, rural towns. Bakersfield, the county seat, is the largest city and a significant commercial hub. Forty-four other cities and towns dot the landscape, each contributing to the county’s unique character. The economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with Kern County being a leading producer of fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Oil and gas extraction are also major industries, driving significant economic activity. Other notable sectors include manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Large employers include Chevron, Paramount Citrus, and Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. The area is a mix of suburban and rural landscapes, with a growing population and a diverse workforce.
Points of Interest
The county offers a variety of attractions for residents and visitors alike. Sequoia National Forest, with its towering giant sequoia trees, is a major draw. The California State Historic Landmark at Fort Tejon offers a glimpse into the region’s military past. The Kern County Museum in Bakersfield showcases the county’s history and culture. The annual Kern County Fair is a beloved community event. The county is also home to the Richard Baumbach Opera Workshop, contributing to the arts scene. Interestingly, Kern County holds the record for producing the most oil of any county in the United States, a testament to its significant role in the nation’s energy production.
Information
- State
- california
- Type
- County
- Population
- 661,645
- Land area
- 8,142 sq mi
- Capital
- Bakersfield
- Time zone
- UTC-8
- FIPS
- 06029
45 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Bakersfield | 247,057 | 408 ft (124 m) |
| Delano | 38,824 | 316 ft (96 m) |
| Oildale | 27,885 | 455 ft (139 m) |
| Ridgecrest | 24,927 | 2,289 ft (698 m) |
| Wasco | 21,263 | 325 ft (99 m) |
| Rosamond | 14,349 | 2,326 ft (709 m) |
| Lamont | 13,296 | 400 ft (122 m) |
| Arvin | 12,956 | 445 ft (136 m) |
| Shafter | 12,736 | - |
| Tehachapi | 10,957 | 3,973 ft (1,211 m) |
| McFarland | 9,618 | 350 ft (107 m) |
| Rosedale | 8,445 | 368 ft (112 m) |
| California City | 8,385 | 2,360 ft (719 m) |
| Golden Hills | 7,434 | 3,918 ft (1,194 m) |
| Taft | 6,400 | 950 ft (290 m) |
| Bear Valley Springs | 4,232 | 4,118 ft (1,255 m) |
| Mojave | 3,836 | 2,757 ft (840 m) |
| Ford City | 3,512 | 875 ft (267 m) |
| Lake Isabella | 3,315 | 2,460 ft (750 m) |
| Weldon | 2,387 | 2,653 ft (809 m) |
| Frazier Park | 2,348 | 4,767 ft (1,453 m) |
| Wofford Heights | 2,276 | 2,660 ft (811 m) |
| Boron | 2,025 | 2,460 ft (750 m) |
| Lost Hills | 1,938 | 300 ft (91 m) |
| South Taft | 1,898 | 1,050 ft (320 m) |
| Taft Heights | 1,865 | 1,150 ft (351 m) |
| Bodfish | 1,823 | 2,680 ft (817 m) |
| China Lake Acres | 1,761 | 2,427 ft (740 m) |
| Kernville | 1,736 | 2,706 ft (825 m) |
| Pine Mountain Club | 1,600 | - |
| Stallion Springs | 1,522 | 3,780 ft (1,152 m) |
| Lebec | 1,285 | 3,570 ft (1,088 m) |
| Buttonwillow | 1,266 | 269 ft (82 m) |
| North Edwards | 1,227 | 2,295 ft (700 m) |
| Maricopa | 1,111 | 854 ft (260 m) |
| Inyokern | 984 | 2,433 ft (742 m) |
| Lake of the Woods | 833 | 5,133 ft (1,565 m) |
| Mountain Mesa | 716 | 2,663 ft (812 m) |
| Dustin Acres | 585 | 380 ft (116 m) |
| Valley Acres | 512 | 415 ft (126 m) |
| Squirrel Mountain Valley | 498 | 2,961 ft (903 m) |
| Onyx | 476 | 2,800 ft (853 m) |
| Derby Acres | 376 | 1,366 ft (416 m) |
| Keene | 339 | 2,600 ft (792 m) |
| Tupman | 227 | 320 ft (98 m) |