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easy1.5 hours west on CA-178
Mountain Lake Recreation
Lake Isabella
FishingSwimmingCampingKayaking
Lake Size2,600 acres
Elevation2,605 ft
Dam Built1953
Shoreline38 miles
Fish SpeciesTrout, bass, catfish, crappie
Overview
Lake Isabella is a 2,600-acre reservoir nestled in the foothills of the southern Sierra Nevada, about 1.5 hours west of Ridgecrest via the scenic Highway 178 through the dramatic Kern River Canyon. Created by Isabella Dam on the Kern River in 1953, the lake is the largest body of water in Kern County and a major recreation hub for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
The lake and surrounding Sequoia National Forest offer a refreshing contrast to the desert landscape of the Indian Wells Valley. Pine-covered hillsides descend to the lakeshore, where several developed recreation areas provide boat ramps, swimming beaches, campgrounds, and picnic areas. The fishing is excellent — the lake is stocked with rainbow trout and also supports populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie. Bass fishing tournaments are held regularly throughout the warmer months.
The nearby town of Kernville, located upstream on the Kern River, is a charming mountain community with restaurants, shops, and outfitters. Kernville hosts the annual Whiskey Flat Days festival in February, a popular Old West celebration with a parade, rodeo, and gold-panning competitions. The Kern River above the lake is famous for its whitewater, and rafting and kayaking outfitters in Kernville offer guided trips on Class III-V rapids during the spring and summer snowmelt season.
Things to Do
Boating & Water Sports
Several public boat ramps provide access for motorboats, jet skis, kayaks, and sailboats. Boat rentals are available at marinas on the lake.
Fishing
The lake supports trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie. Shore fishing and boat fishing are both productive. Check CDFW regulations for current limits.
Camping
Multiple campgrounds around the lake and along the Kern River offer sites ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with lake views.
Visit Kernville
Drive upstream to the charming mountain town of Kernville for dining, shopping, and outfitter services. A great lunch stop during a lake visit.
Scenic Drive on CA-178
The drive from Ridgecrest to Lake Isabella through the Kern River Canyon is one of the most dramatic road trips in the southern Sierra.
Highlights
2,600-acre reservoir — boating, fishing, swimmingExcellent bass and trout fishing year-roundMultiple developed campgrounds with amenitiesScenic Highway 178 drive through Kern River CanyonKernville — charming mountain town with restaurants and shopsWhiskey Flat Days festival in FebruaryGateway to Sequoia National Forest recreation
Getting There
Drive Time
1.5 hours west on CA-178
Directions
Head west from Ridgecrest on CA-178 through the Kern River Canyon. The road follows the river through a dramatic gorge before opening up at the lake.
Details
Best Season
April through October for water activities; year-round for fishing and camping
Fee
$5-$30 depending on activity and campground
Difficulty
easy
Dog Friendly
Yes
Tips & Safety
- Water levels vary significantly by season and drought conditions — check before planning water activities
- The Kern Canyon road (CA-178) is winding with limited cell service — drive carefully
- Summer weekends are busy — arrive early to secure a good spot at boat ramps and beaches
- Bring sunscreen and shade — the lake area can be very hot in summer despite the mountain setting
- Stop in Kernville for supplies and local restaurant recommendations
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