Our Story

Once upon a time… in a valley at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, known as the Kern River Valley, the small town of Kernville arose from the hunt for Gold in the nearby mountains. The Kern River not only flows right down the middle of Kernville, but it meanders through the Kern River Valley before entering the Kern Canyon; rushing down to the City of Bakersfield.

In the early 1950’s, as the growing city of Bakersfield, down river from Kernville, became more and more concerned with the Wild and Scenic Kern River, it was decided to build a dam to control the Kern River; hence Lake Isabella was born. The dam was finished in 1955, and with the new Lake, came boaters and recreationalist that all needed Lodging.

It was in 1955 that The Kern Lodge came to be!

We take pride in maintaining a rustic feel while upgrading into the 21st century! The Lodge was first built with just 14 rooms over the years of 1955-1960. When the present owner purchased the Lodge from her brother over 20 years ago, she not only added two new rooms, but she also purchased properties adjacent to the original Lodge; creating the 23 room Lodge that it is today!

The Lodge has rooms from a single Queen bed, all the way up to the 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, family-style Master Suite; known as the Kern River Room.

On the property you will find a gaming area with outside Chess and Checkers, as well as an inside Game Room with a Coin-Operated Foosball game. In the Park Area of the property, you will find an outside FirePit and BBQ’s for your evening enjoyment.

Please see our Frequently Asked Questions page!