California is a vast state with a variety of climates and diverse nature almost anywhere you travel. One area we want to explore is the southern Sierra Nevada, in Kern County, California. It’s Isabella Lake. It’s a beautiful location that includes the area’s namesake, Isabella Lake, along with the surrounding views and community. 

Visit Isabella Lake on your way to or following a relaxing getaway to Rankin Ranch. We have an incredibly scenic ranch with accommodations and attractions that rival the amazing California scenery.

Overview of Isabella Lake In California

Before you visit Isabella Lake, take some time to learn a little bit about the area and the lake. These are some things you should know about Isabella Lake.

• The town of Isabella is named after Queen Isabella of Spain.
• Lake Isabella is actually a reservoir at the junction of two forks of the Kern River. It’s not a natural lake.
• The lake has a dam called Isabella Dam. It’s an embankment dam located in the Kern River Valley, about halfway down the Kern River.
• The lake covers 11,000 acres.
• An entire Gold Rush town sits on the lakebed, and it’s a registered state landmark. Old Kernville was established following the Gold Rush in the 1850s. The site was submerged in 1954; most buildings were dismantled or moved to higher ground. But some foundations reappear when water levels drop.
• What remained of Old Kernville became a popular spot for Hollywood. Many westerns were filmed there, such as episodes of Bonanza, Idaho, and multiple John Wayne and Roy Rogers projects.
• The Audubon Kern River Preserve protects one of California’s largest remaining riparian forests.
• It’s a windy place. Lake Isabella has sudden gusts of 60 mph winds!

Explore The Area Around The Ranch

Lake Isabella is one of many scenic and interesting attractions that you can see on your way to or from Rankin Ranch. 

We are one of California’s oldest and largest family-owned dude ranches. For six generations, the Rankin family has managed the vast 31,000-acre cattle ranch. Book now by visiting our website or calling us directly at 1-661-867-2511.