Kern
Delano, CA 93215
Plan Your Visit
Kern National Wildlife Refuge managed as part of the Kern National Wildlife Refuge Complex. A National Wildlife Refuge Complex is an administrative grouping of two or more refuges, wildlife management areas or other refuge conservation areas that are primarily managed from a central office location. Kern National Wildlife Complex consists of Kern and Pixley National Wildlife Refuges and Tulare Wildlife Management Area.
Kern and Pixley National Wildlife refuges provide opportunities for hunting, hiking, birding, auto tours, wildlife viewing and photography. Late summer flood up brings mosquitoes making insect repellent a must. West Nile and Western Equine Encephalitis viruses are present on the refuge. When driving the levee roads, be mindful of all posted speed limits and closed area signs. Several species of snakes are present on the refuge including western rattlesnakes so please, mind your step especially when walking the levee roads.
Visitor Center
The Kern National Wildlife Refuge Complex Visitor Center and Headquarters features an exhibit hall with interactive educational displays complementing the wildlife refuges of California's San Joaquin Valley, the visitor center is a focal point for visitors and a launching point for exploring the entire refuge complex.
Monday - Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except federal holidays.
Questions?
If you have any further questions or concerns, please phone the refuge office at 661-725-2767. Literature is also provided in the office as well as the entrance kiosk.
Quick Resources
Pixley National Wildlife Refuge
Tulare Basin Wildlife Management Area
No purchases can be made at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge check station. To hunt on Kern Refuge please have the following licenses and validations: Hunting License, Federal Duck Stamp (required for hunters over the age of 16), California Duck Validation, Hunting Information Program Validation, and Type-A Hunting Pass.
Activities
Get Involved
From its start in 1903, the National Wildlife Refuge System has owed its very existence to concerned citizens eager to protect America's natural resources. Kern National Wildlife Refuge has ongoing volunteer positions that involve biological surveys, habitat management, and invasive plant removal. For more information contact the Refuge at 661-725-2767.
Working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Work with Us
Our dedicated employees perform a wide range of jobs at national wildlife refuges and national fish hatcheries and with public, tribal and private partners.
We hope you’ll join us in advancing our mission of working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Services
Our Environmental Education Program is free and includes staff led field trips which may last one to two hours. A primary objective of the National Wildlife Refuges like Kern and Pixley is to provide an optimal environmental educational experience to all interested audiences.
About
Established on November 18, 1960, Kern National Wildlife Refuge consists of 11,249 acres of natural desert uplands, a relict riparian corridor, and developed marsh. It is managed as part of the Kern National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which also includes the Pixley National Wildlife Refuge and the Tulare Wildlife Management Area. The refuge provides optimum wintering habitat for migratory birds with an emphasis on waterfowl and water birds.