Bakersfield is an inland community at the southwest outskirts of the Sequoia National Forest. Bakersfield offers museums, nightlife, restaurants, dining, river rafting, and outdoor adventure as the southern gateway to California’s central valley. Museums include the Bakersfield Museum of Art, the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, and the California Living Museum, otherwise known as the Bakersfield Zoo. Enjoy river rafting along the Kern River from several put-in spots with outfitters offering whitewater experiences ranging from Class I to Class V rapids. Annual events include the classic Kern County Fair, held each September. The 10-day fair offers a carnival, rodeo, live music events and more.