San Joaquin River Gorge Visitor Center

Show on map 661-391-6000 blm_ca_web_bk@blm.gov

Bureau of Land Management, San Joaquin River Gorge Visitor Center, 40060 Smalley Road
Auberry, CA 93602

Visitor Center

The Visitor Center is open every Friday through Sunday from 10am to 2pm.

Come to the Visitor Center to explore the plants, animals and people who call the scenic San Joaquin River Gorge their home. Explore interactive displays inside and native plant gardens and outdoor classrooms just outside. Investigate a Mono house, learn how acorns were processed into food and explore other local cultural traditions.

Call ahead to schedule a special program for your group. The area is easily accessible via a paved road suitable for all types of cars.

Fee Schedule

Day Use (per vehicle)………..$5
Annual Pass…………………..$25
Individual Campsite…………..$10
Double Campsite (2 tables)….$15
Equestrian Campsite…………$25
Group Campground*…………$175
Nuckahee Learning Center*…$300
Interpretive Programs………..$10

*The Group Campground and Nuckahee Learning Center require reservations. Please contact the Bakersfield Field Office for more information.

Restrictions

Target Shooting is prohibited within the management area
Hunting of Non-Game Species is prohibited
All trails in the management area are Non-Motorized. OHV's are Prohibited
A permit is required for campfires, and campfires must be in designated fire rings in the campgrounds

Directions

The San Joaquin River Gorge is located approximately five (5) miles northwest of the town of Auberry. The visitor center is located at 40060 Smalley Road, Auberry, California. Google Maps accurately locates the visitor center at it's actual location. From Fresno, take CA-168 north. One mile after the town of Prather, turn left onto Auberry Road. Follow Auberry Road 2.9 miles through the town of Auberry and turn left at the Y onto Powerhouse Road. After 1.8 miles, turn left onto Smalley Road and follow it into the recreation area.

Fees

The San Joaquin River Gorge is a Fee Use site and requires that fees are paid promptly upon arrival. Please review the fee schedule on this page for current pricing.