Carrizo Plain National Monument

Carrizo Plain National Monument is located in the southern part of the Central Valley of California, USA. It is situated about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 50 miles east of San Luis Obispo. This expansive and scenic area covers approximately 204,107 acres, making it one of the largest remaining grasslands in California.

The Carrizo Plain holds great historical significance as it has been home to Native American tribes for thousands of years. Evidence of their presence can still be found in the form of petroglyphs and other archaeological sites. During the 19th century, the area saw the arrival of European settlers who established ranches and farming communities in the valley.

Visitors to Carrizo Plain National Monument can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions. One of the highlights is the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area, including pronghorn antelope, tule elk, and various bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. The monument also houses the California State Gem Mine, where visitors can try their luck at finding gemstones such as quartz and jasper.

The scenic beauty of Carrizo Plain National Monument is another draw for visitors. The vast grasslands, rugged mountains, and vibrant wildflower displays during the spring make it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The Painted Rock, adorned with ancient pictographs, is another notable attraction that offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural history.

For those looking to explore further, there are attractions nearby Carrizo Plain National Monument. The nearby Soda Lake provides opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and even stargazing due to its designation as a Dark Sky Preserve. In addition, the Carrizo Plain Ecological Reserve, adjacent to the monument, offers additional recreational activities, including hiking and camping.

Overall, Carrizo Plain National Monument is a remarkable natural and cultural treasure in California, offering a wide range of activities and sights for visitors to enjoy. Whether it's wildlife spotting, exploring ancient rock art, or simply immersing oneself in the vast beauty of the grasslands, this monument provides a unique and enriching experience.

Carrizo Plain National Monument is situated within the state of California, specifically in the central part of the state. Nestled within the vast expanse of the San Joaquin Valley, it is located in San Luis Obispo County. This geographically diverse plain is flanked by the Temblor Range to the east and the Caliente Range to the west, while the southern end merges into the rugged Transverse Ranges. Encompassing approximately 250,000 acres, the monument is characterized by its expansive grasslands, rolling hills, and unique geological formations. With its remote and unspoiled location, Carrizo Plain National Monument offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and tranquility within this diverse and captivating region of California.

Address & Contact

Sorry we don't have an address for this park on file yet.
Phone: NULL
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Carrizo Plain National Monument would be from April to June when the average maximum temperatures range from 72°F to 90°F and the average minimum temperatures range from 41°F to 53°F. During this time, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, making it the ideal timeframe to visit the monument.

Campsites within or near Carrizo Plain National Monument

KCL - Carrizo Plains

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Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 12
Toilets: Pit Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Selby

The campground is located 15.6 mi from New Cuyama, CA.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 6
Toilets: Vault Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Hotels within or near Carrizo Plain National Monument

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Motel 6 Buttonwillow, CA Central

With a stay at Motel 6 Buttonwillow, CA Central, you'll be centrally located in Buttonwillow, within a 10-minute drive of Buttonwillow Recreation Park and Kern Country Sheriff's Office. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 20645 Tracy Ave, Buttonwillow, California 93206
Web: Link

Holland Inn and Suites

With a stay at Holland Inn and Suites in Taft, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Taft City Park and West Kern Oil Museum. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 531 Warren Street, Taft, California 93268
Web: Link

Motel 8

With a stay at Motel 8 in Maricopa, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Carrizo Plain National Monument and West Kern Oil Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 600 Poso Street, Maricopa, California 93252
Web: Link

Sunset Motel

Located in Taft, Sunset Motel is just steps from Taft Chamber of Commerce and 11 minutes by foot from Taft College. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 411 4th Street, Taft, California 93268
Web: Link

Best Western Heritage Inn

Located in Bakersfield, Best Western Heritage Inn is within a 15-minute drive of Tule Elk State Natural Reserve and Buttonwillow Recreation Park. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 253 Trask Street, Bakersfield, California 93314
Web: Link

Western Inn & Suites

With a stay at Western Inn & Suites in Taft, you'll be a 3-minute walk from Taft Chamber of Commerce and 8 minutes by foot from Taft City Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and a vending machine. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 222 Kern Street, Taft, California 93268
Web: Link

Best Western Plus Taft Inn

With a stay at Best Western Plus Taft Inn in Taft, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Taft Chamber of Commerce and Taft College. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 203 S 6th Street, Taft, California 93268
Web: Link

Studio 6 Buttonwillow, CA

Located in Buttonwillow, Studio 6 Buttonwillow, CA is within a 10-minute drive of Buttonwillow Recreation Park and Kern Country Sheriff's Office. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 20638 Tracy Ave, Buttonwillow, California 93206
Web: Link

Topper Motel

With a stay at Topper Motel in Taft, you'll be a 5-minute walk from Taft City Park and 9 minutes by foot from Taft Chamber of Commerce. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 101 E Kern St, Taft, California 93268-32
Web: Link

National 9 Inn

With a stay at National 9 Inn in Buttonwillow, you'll be 12.1 mi (19.4 km) from Buttonwillow Raceway Park and 19.2 mi (30.8 km) from California State University-Bakersfield. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 20681 Tracy Ave, Buttonwillow, California 93206
Web: Link