
The Park at River Walk Bakersfield
A 32-acre oasis with an amphitheater surrounded by water, hosting live music, vibrant markets, and community events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively markets and events

The Park at River Walk Bakersfield
Best Time
Lively markets and events

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 32-acre oasis with an amphitheater surrounded by water, hosting live music, vibrant markets, and community events.
"A beautiful, well-maintained, and clean park with something for every age."

🎯 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss out! See what markets, concerts, or festivals are happening before you visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Perfect for walking, biking, or exploring the park's many paths.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Amphitheater by the Water
Central Amphitheater
Experience live music and performances in a stunning setting surrounded by water.

Artisan Markets
Various locations within the park
Discover local crafts, delicious food, and unique finds at bustling weekend markets.

Water Lantern Festival
Main lake
Witness a breathtaking spectacle as thousands of lanterns illuminate the water at dusk.

Kern River Bike Path
Parallel to the Kern River
Enjoy a scenic and relaxing ride or stroll along the well-maintained path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss out! See what markets, concerts, or festivals are happening before you visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Perfect for walking, biking, or exploring the park's many paths.
🍦 Sweet Treats Available
Handel's Ice Cream is a local favorite at the Riverwalk!
📸 Great Photo Spots
Capture beautiful scenery and event moments.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss out! See what markets, concerts, or festivals are happening before you visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Perfect for walking, biking, or exploring the park's many paths.
🍦 Sweet Treats Available
Handel's Ice Cream is a local favorite at the Riverwalk!
📸 Great Photo Spots
Capture beautiful scenery and event moments.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the park with their owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Park at River Walk Bakersfield for its beautiful, well-maintained, and clean environment, highlighting its suitability for leisure strolls, family activities, and dog-friendly outings. The scenic paths along the Kern River and the variety of amenities like playgrounds and workout equipment are frequently mentioned as positives.
"Visited this park for the first time. What a beautiful well maintained and clean park.
This is wonderful place to take a leisure stroll with different elevations among vast green grass and a water creek feature .
City Parks have done a great job with designing and providing such a beautiful park!"
Tony DeMarco
"Nice park with picnic tables and benches with beautiful views . There is something here for every age. Play structure and walking / biking / running paths. Safe area with a lot of people . The park is also very dog friendly."
Raghav Ayyamani
"Beautiful park. You can charge your car and also your toddler can play."
Deepti Gaonkar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Park at River Walk is located at 11298 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may vary, so check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.
Yes, there is parking available at the park. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on event days, to secure a good spot.
Absolutely! The park features well-maintained bike and scooter paths, making it a great destination for active transportation.
While the park is generally considered safe with many people around, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Carrying pepper spray is recommended by some visitors for added peace of mind.
The park is conveniently located off Stockdale Highway. Depending on your starting point in Bakersfield, you can use major roads like Rosedale Highway or California Avenue to connect to Stockdale Highway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, The Park at River Walk is a public park and does not have an admission fee for general entry. However, specific ticketed events like the Water Lantern Festival will require purchased tickets.
As a public park, it's typically open from dawn until dusk. However, specific event hours may vary, so it's best to check the park's calendar or event details for precise timings.
Yes, tickets are required for the Water Lantern Festival. It's advisable to purchase them in advance as they can sell out.
Yes, many community events like the Thousand Flags tribute on Memorial Day Weekend are free to attend. Check the park's schedule for upcoming free activities.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy live music at the amphitheater, stroll or bike the Kern River path, attend artisan markets, and participate in various community events like festivals and charity walks.
Yes, the park offers playgrounds and grassy areas, making it a great spot for families with children to play and relax.
The walking and bike paths are generally well-maintained and wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the park's amenities.
The park hosts a variety of events including live music, artisan markets, festivals like the Water Lantern Festival, charity walks, and holiday tributes.
Yes, the park has lakes that are stocked with trout, and fishing derbies are sometimes hosted, like the annual event by the Bakersfield Firefighters.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, especially during artisan markets and special events, you can find a variety of food vendors offering everything from ice cream to hot dogs and artisan pastries.
Visitors often rave about local treats like ice cream from Handel's, artisan croissants, and gourmet hot dogs.
Absolutely! The park has numerous benches and grassy areas perfect for a picnic.
Yes, the park is adjacent to extensive shopping centers, which typically house a variety of restaurants and dining options.
Prices can vary depending on the vendor and event. For example, a deal for four scoops of ice cream was noted at $8.
📸 📸 Photography
The amphitheater area with its water features, the scenic Kern River bike path, and the illuminated water during the Water Lantern Festival offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Yes, the park offers beautiful views, especially during dusk when events like the Water Lantern Festival take place, creating a magical atmosphere for photography.
Visitors capture event highlights, natural landscapes, family moments, and the unique ambiance of festivals like the Water Lantern Festival.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial use or professional shoots, it's always best to check with park management for any specific guidelines.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Evening events, like the Water Lantern Festival, provide unique opportunities for dramatic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss out on the chance to catch a community event or market, which often have activities or treats that kids will love. It's a safe and enjoyable environment for a family day out in Bakersfield.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Safety
Some visitors suggest carrying pepper spray for an added layer of security, particularly if you plan to visit during early mornings or late evenings. Staying aware and sticking to well-lit, populated areas will ensure a more comfortable and secure visit.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
For those looking to create engaging content, the park's dynamic event schedule means there's always something new and visually interesting to capture. From golden hour shots along the river to the colorful displays of community gatherings, The Park at River Walk offers plenty of inspiration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Events and Festivals: A Year-Round Draw
Beyond the larger spectacles, the park also hosts events like the Walk to End Alzheimer's and fishing derbies, showcasing its role as a community gathering place. The amphitheater frequently features live music performances, adding a soundtrack to the park's natural beauty [^M3]. Checking the park's event calendar is crucial to make the most of your visit, as these happenings are a significant part of the River Walk experience.
Pro-tip: Many of these events, especially the artisan markets, are popular, so arriving early can help you avoid crowds and snag the best finds.
Exploring the Kern River Bike Path
The path is noted for its natural beauty, with abundant plant life and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including water birds. When the river has sufficient water, you might even see fish. The path also connects to other areas, including a park with workout equipment and overlooks of another lake, offering varied scenery and activities. It's a fantastic way to experience the outdoors without leaving Bakersfield.
Safety Note: While generally safe and well-trafficked, some visitors recommend being aware of your surroundings, especially during early mornings or late evenings, and considering self-defense tools like pepper spray for added security.
Family Fun and Relaxation
Beyond the playgrounds, the park's accessibility makes it suitable for all. The wheelchair-accessible paths mean that everyone can explore the beautiful surroundings. Whether it's a family bike ride along the Kern River path or a relaxed afternoon picnic, the park provides a welcoming environment for creating lasting memories.
Insider Tip: Many visitors appreciate the park's dog-friendly nature, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the fun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit