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10 Fun & Best Things to Do in Ridgecrest, California

Petroglyphs in California

The jewel of Kern County, Ridgecrest is the only incorporated area in the Indian Wells Valley. To say that it’s a stunning town is an understatement. This often-overlooked desert getaway is steeped in loveliness.

It’s located in the western Mojave Desert, so it’s the perfect place for anyone who has a particular fondness for arid temperatures and panoramic views of the desert and mountains. Visitors can attribute the scenery to the four mountain ranges that hug the area.

There are around 28,000 inhabitants of Ridgecrest, California, a town that has only been official since 1963. The area actually only got a post office after the U.S. belatedly entered WWII.

Shortly after that, the Naval Ordnance Test Station (now Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake) was built here, so naturally, they needed somewhere to send and sort mail for all those engineers, sailors, and scientists. Since then the military presence has actually been a positive one and provides a good percentage of jobs.

It should be noted that Ridgecrest has been affected by many earthquakes over the years. The good thing about that is that much effort and planning has gone into making this part of California safer for those who call it home as well as those passing through.

If mountain biking, cultural history, and unique landmarks interest you, Ridgecrest is definitely worth checking out. There isn’t an overload of things to do here, but what there is here just so happens to be tip-top! Just be prepared for those hot days and pack shades and sunscreen!

To help you structure your trip accordingly, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Ridgecrest, California!

TL;DR

  • Most significant landmark – Big and Little Petroglyph Canyons
  • Best park – Leroy Jackson Park
  • Best free activity – Rademacher Hills
  • Best activity for kids – Freedom Park
  • Best activity for adults – China Lake Golf Course
  • Best food – China Lake Golf Course
  • Best nightlife – Maturango Museum
  • Best all-around accommodationHoliday Inn Express – China Lake

Best & Fun Things to do in Ridgecrest, California

1. Big and Little Petroglyph Canyons

Petroglyphs in California

Address: G2 Tower Rd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555

When you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, you might be close to the Big or Little Petroglyph Canyon. These are essentially twin landforms — fraternal, of course.

Within these canyons are a plethora of…

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