Family Camping Activities for All Ages: Games, Hiking, and Campfire Fun
Explore family camping activities that bring all ages together, from outdoor games and scenic hikes to memorable campfire fun that creates lasting memories.
Buena Vista Aquatic Area is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a mix of nature and recreational activities. Nestled at 13601 Ironbark Rd in Bakersfield, CA 93311, this campground offers a unique blend of camping experiences and aquatic fun. The location is particularly appealing due to its proximity to Interstate 5, making it an ideal spot for travelers passing through California's Central Valley or heading towards Southern California.
One of the standout features of Buena Vista Aquatic Area is its lakeside setting. Campsites are positioned along the shoreline, providing campers with a serene environment and beautiful views of the water. The park offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites with full hookups (electricity and water), as well as tent-only sites for those who prefer a more primitive experience. Many sites are large enough to accommodate big rigs, trailers, and tow vehicles, making it suitable for families and groups.
The campground is known for its convenient location, being less than 5 miles from Interstate 5. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a quick break without venturing far off the beaten path. The park's proximity to Kern River Campground also offers additional opportunities for outdoor adventures in the area.
Buena Vista Aquatic Area offers special rates and discounts for seniors, military personnel, and large groups. During peak seasons, they also provide extended stay options. For those who plan to visit frequently, annual passes are available at a discounted rate.
Customers have shared both positive and constructive feedback about their experiences at Buena Vista Aquatic Area:
Buena Vista Aquatic Area continues to be a popular choice for campers seeking a mix of nature and recreational activities. While there are areas for improvement, the campground's scenic location and proximity to major highways make it a worthwhile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Onsite services
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
RV camping
RV electric hookup
RV sewer hookup
RV water hookup
Camping fee
Credit cards
Debit cards
Good for kids
Playground
On-site parking
Paid parking lot
Dogs allowed
We got a camping spot right on the lake which was really nice. The site (51) is one of the biggest sites we have had on our adventures. Plenty of room for our trailer and tow vehicle. It is also very conveniently located less than 5 miles off I-5 so it was a perfect spot to rest on the way to SoCal. Knocking off one star because this is the only campground we have ever stayed at that did not have signs pointing the direction of the sites so we had to drive around the campground looking for our site. Of course we went the wrong way and had to loop around the campground and take a turn we missed. Also, there are tons of flies! The problem is made worse because every site has a large garbage can an about every 4th can has a broken lid. These cans are swarming with flies. We lit candles which seemed to help. Beautiful location if you can get over the flies.
We stayed there in a tent and we were told that we were over our allowed days between there and Kern river campground.Emelda was so RUDE she told us the next day not only did we have to leave but they were going to keep the 119.00 we paid the day before and have only a few hours to leave! Needless to say, I immediately called the bank and thankfully they agreed that it was wrong to be charged for somewhere they are literally kicking you out of! We were quiet and kept to ourselves and any time we had a question and the same rude woman would snap at us for even asking or bothering her! She shouldn't work with the public and treat people so poorly! Horrible experience and 1st time there
| ★★★★☆ | Great campground. The only problems were that there were too many bugs and it's a little bit on the warm side. Other than that, it was perfect. Great location near the lake (We stayed in site 49). Was quiet and peaceful. Lots of trees for shade. Amazing view! 4 stars (1 star docked for the bugs) given. I highly recommend this place but if you hate bugs then it's not for you. We came on a Thursday. PS: You can't charge cars here, only RVs or trailers, bad luck for EV owners. PPS: There are squirrels/other small animals here so put your food in a box.
This campground is terrible. I even wonder why people go there. Maybe it's because there isn't much water around here? The animals that look like little miniature marmots are very cute but there were so many holes in our camp site that it was hard to know where to put our tent without getting stuck in the holes. The toilets and showers are really, really dirty. There are so many insects, it's rather unpleasant. There were so many groups of people who would have parties. The music came from all sides. Finally, maybe the locals enjoy this location for moments with friends near a lake, but for us who arrived with a family currently on the road trip, it was definitely not for us.
Was looking forward to a two night stay with my kids and grandkids this weekend. Unfortunately the water line at the park broke and they had to shut off the water to 27 camp sites on our first night there. We never got notified that the water was getting shut off. Had to cut our trip early. We left the following morning. Kern County park and recreation supervisor Diana was unable to give us a refund or credit.
Rustic campground with huge spaces, whole area is flat so no problem leveling but not the best rv gravel sites.