$400,905Average Value$237Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes For Sale
A little mountain town in the Kern River Valley
Known as Whiskey Flat during the California Gold Rush, Kernville still feels like the Wild West. With hiking trails through desert cliffs and rafting on the Kern River, recreation is just one of the reasons people flock to Kernville. About 52 miles from Bakersfield, this small town of less than 1,000 is a sought-after place for tourism and retirement among the Sierra Nevada Mountains. With the outdoors and a vintage downtown, Kernville is a mountain village and a rural retreat from the city.
The Kern River runs through the downtown area of Kernville.
Walk through the rustic town square of Kernville.
The Kern River flows alongside Kernville into Lake Isabella.
The trailhead starts here for several of the hiking trails found in Kernville.
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Mountains and river recreation
Kernville has many sightseeing and nature-oriented attractions. “People move here for the outdoor activities first and foremost,” says Julie Jones, Sales Associate at Julie Jones Home, Ranch & Commercial, who has lived in the area for over 15 years. Kernville has hiking trails, rafting and campgrounds along the foothills. Riverside Park is a popular spot for fishing and whitewater kayaking on the rapids. The Whiskey Flat Trail moves through Sequoia National Forest, offering panoramic vistas of wildflower fields and the Greenhorn Mountains along a 23-mile route.
Kernville is nestled in the northern mountains of Lake Isabella.
Visit Kernville and drop by Riverside park as your first stop in this riverside town.
Riverside Park in Kernville sits beside the Kern River as it flows into Lake Isabella.
Whiskey Flat Trail is a popular hiking and mountain biking place for Kernville residents.
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Riverside properties and industries for employment
The Kern River flows through the town center, dividing it into two sections. Ranch-style homes sit on the western banks closer to the downtown, while the east side has land and development with newer farmhouses on multi-acre lots. On average, homes in Kernville sell for $347,000. The average sale price in California is $673,000 by comparison. Riverside homes with acreage and scenic views sell for up to $1 million. Manufactured homes are also available, and prices start at $50,000. Available homes in Kernville are less common than in surrounding areas and stay on the market for 71 days, compared to the national average of 42. "Kernville is a little slower-paced, and the market doesn't have a lot of turnover, so properties stay on the market longer than in a metropolitan area," Jones says.
Although there are several employment options in Kernville, there may be fewer opportunities than in surrounding areas. Southern California Edison is a power company in neighboring Wofford Heights. In addition, the United States Forest Service and Kern County administration positions are popular workplaces. Kern Valley Hospital is the nearest medical center in Mountain Mesa and employs over 200 people.
A Colonial Revival inspired home in Kernville installed new solar panels.
Most of the ranch style homes in Kernville were built in the mid 20th century.
Ranch style and cabin style homes can mostly be found in Kernville.
Southern California Edison in nearby Wofford Heights offers jobs for Kernville residents.
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Downtown Kernville and Western attractions
Downtown Kernville is one of this community's brightest attractions and most vital retail hub. The storefronts mimic Western architecture, with locally owned businesses resembling rustic restaurants and antique saloons. The east side of the river has more local eateries like Ewings on the Kern, an old-fashioned steak house with an epic landscape view. The town's only grocery store is Sierra Gateway Market.
Kernville's Wild West-themed festival that pays homage to the town's beginnings, Whiskey Flat Days, draws in over 10,000 visitors each February for rodeos, country music and gunfighting skits. Another attraction is the Kern Valley Museum, which acts as a time machine to the 1800s, with exhibits that explain the town's former mining industry.
The Kern Valley Museum has a wealth of local Kernville historical antiques.
Kernville residents can get everything on their grocery list at Sierra Gateway Market.
The Kernville Saloon is a great place for local residents to play pool.
Kern River Brewery Company is a great place for fresh beer and great lunch.
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Education in Kernville
Kernville Union Elementary School District serves about 800 students in the area and earns a C rating from Niche. Students then transition to the Kern High School District, which has a B-plus grade and is the largest in California, with over 42,000 students. Kern Valley High School is most likely the nearest option in Lake Isabella. Nearby higher education options include Bakersfield College, Portersville College and Cerro Coso Community College.
Commute to Bakersfield and further travel
Kernville is car dependent, with few sidewalks outside of downtown. Kern Transit provides public transportation to the area with bus service throughout town. Bakersfield is about 52 miles southwest on state Route 178, and Los Angeles is about 166 miles south on state Route 99. The Meadows Field Airport provides passenger flights to international airports in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Kernville crime rates
Between 2022 and 2023, property crime in Kern County fell by nearly 10%, while violent crime dropped by over 25%. In comparison, California's crime rates increased during this time frame. Kernville experiences a desert climate with temperatures exceeding 110°F during the summer, and heat waves can last for several months. The county also struggles with air pollution, although quality is improving due to the energy companies shifting and clean air initiatives from the county, such as offering rebates for electric vehicles.
Written By
Jackson Hardy
Photography Contributed By
Mark Huddleston
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jeannie Verdugo,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Kernville, CA sell after 125 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Kernville, CA over the last 12 months is $435,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the relaxed mountain-town lifestyle just minutes from the Kern River in this inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bath home. Whether you're looking for a full-time residence, a weekend getaway, or an investment property, this home offers comfortable living with generous spaces throughout. The large tiled kitchen features abundant custom cabinetry, plenty of workspace, and a dining area that's perfect
Completely reimagined in 2026, this stylish Kernville retreat blends modern comfort with flexible living on over half an acre. Offering 1,671 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, and 2.5 baths, extensively renovated with new stucco, electrical, plumbing, central air, windows, doors, appliances, and a new shingle roof giving you the feel of a brand-new home with the space and setting you've been searching for.
Pictures don't do this place justice.Schedule a showing today, see the beauty and endless possibilities in person!Endless potential meets breathtaking Kernville living! This nearly 4,000 sq ft property sits on an oversized lot with Estate (E) zoning, offering a rare combination of space, flexibility, and incredible views. Enjoy expansive scenery from multiple balconies and a peaceful setting that
Come build your dream business on this vacant lot in the heart of Kernville. This lot is located in the heart of it all. Easy access flat parcel could be your answer. Close to Restaurants, Stores, Lodging and the beautiful Kern River. Get a great deal......Adjoining Property at 112 Buena Vista is also For Sale, could be a package deal.
Tucked away in a peaceful hidden setting, this beautiful 0.41-acre parcel offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience in the heart of Kernville. Surrounded by mature Oak Trees and natural mountain beauty, this raw land has a serene, secluded feel while still being just minutes from town. Enjoy the charm of small-town living with easy access to local parks, restaurants, shopping, and the
Welcome to 19 Cannel Creek Rd-an exceptional custom-built home in Riverkern, offering the perfect balance of mtn adventure & everyday comfort. Nestled in a highly desirable neighborhood, this well-maintained property captures the essence of Kern River living w/ stunning mountain views & the tranquil sounds of the nearby creek & the mighty Kern River. Designed for both relaxation & efficiency, the
Lot for sale in Kernville that is over 18,000 sf that is zoned R1. This property is on the end of a cul-de-sac with a large pie shaped lot. If you have been wanting to build your dream home in Kernville, this may be the perfect spot for you.
Charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 1,380 sq ft of living space, built in 1990, with a spacious 2-car garage. Ideally located in the desirable C-1 commercial neighborhood in Kernville, this property presents excellent potential for an income-producing opportunity. Enjoy beautiful views and a highly walkable location just a short stroll to the river, local parks, restaurants, lodging, and the
Built in 2008, this stunning 3-bed, 2-bath home perfectly blends luxury, functionality, & breathtaking views. Step inside to find beautiful hardwood floors, granite countertops, & custom cherry wood cabinetry throughout. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed - from the solid core interior doors to the Rinnai tankless w/h, electronic air filter system, & 40-year roof. Gourmet kitchen is
This Spectacular Riverfront Property is being offered for the first time! The unique architectural design, fine quality craftsmanship & attention to details puts this home above and beyond... The Main Home features 2,938 square feet of "Luxurious Living Space" yet it retains a relaxed and comfortable feel perfect for enjoying this "Prime Riverfront Location"! The Entry Foyer w/ its Custom Curved
Escape to your own private mountain and lake retreat in the exclusive gated community of Robinson's Cove. Situated on 5 fully fenced acres with equestrian zoning, this exceptional custom home offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Isabella and the surrounding mountains, along with private lake access for endless outdoor recreation. Designed with both comfort and entertaining in mind, the
This is a very unique situation, and a great opportunity for the right Buyer! 2 nice sized residential lots located in the "Grove Park" subdivision, an easy walk to the Downtown Kernville shops, restaurants, parks, the Kern River and all the great events! The 2 lots total 1.89 acres in size, and are covered with beautiful Pine and Oak trees! The property is very diverse with a lot of elevation
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