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Kern River Preserve

Protecting the Kern River and the 330+ bird species that call it home.

Discover adventure, birds, and how to make a difference at an Audubon center.

Weldon, CA 93283

Closed Today

Located in California’s Southern Sierra Nevada, the Kern River Preserve protects one of the largest remaining riparian forests in the state. These rich river woodlands provide food and shelter for hundreds of bird species and help sustain the South Fork Kern River’s delicate ecosystem.

The preserve is a designated Globally Important Bird Area—one of the first ten in the United States. Over 330 bird species have been recorded here, and more than 200 nest onsite, including the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Summer Tanager, and Willow Flycatcher. Audubon California, working alongside partners, has helped protect over 60,000 acres across the region, enhancing habitat for wetland and cottonwood forest species.

Three SSRS researchers, each holding a Western Yellow-billed Cuckoos during a banding and Motus tag deployment session. The researchers are focused on carefully handling the birds. The background shows natural vegetation, indicating the field setting.

Comeback Cuckoo: Baba Ghanoush Returns to Audubon Kern River Preserve in California

At Audubon Kern River Preserve—managed by Audubon California's Reed Tollefson, dedicated Southern Sierra Research Station (SSRS) researchers are...

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Kern River Preserve Temporarily Closed

Kern River Preserve HQ and Visitor Center entrance. Photo: Sydney Walsh/Audubon

While we welcome the return of natural flows, the river has dramatically shifted course toward our facility. We are working to relocate public access to a more resilient site. In the meantime, visitors can enjoy the river forest from Fay Ranch Road and the South Fork Wildlife Area.

Support Kern River Preserve

Your gift supports our work to protect and enhance rare riparian habitat at the Kern River Preserve—and helps 330+ bird species.

Donate to Kern River Preserve

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