Tucked Between Los Angeles And Bakersfield Is California's Festive Resort Village In The San Emigdio Mountains

While California's beachy reputation is well-earned, sometimes it's worth looking beyond the major tourist hubs and exploring the state's lesser-known, quiet-resort-village side. And there's no better place to do that than Frazier Park. Conveniently located a little over an hour away from Los Angeles and just 40-something minutes away from Bakersfield, a city renowned for its music scene, outdoor fun, and antiques, this often-overlooked gem promises all the mountain fun and peaceful atmosphere you'd want without taking you too far away from the big city amenities.

Most of the people coming here drive in using I-5 as the main artery, while fliers can choose between several nearby airports, including Meadows Field and Hollywood Burbank, both of which are within a 62-mile radius. Public transport options are limited, though, so a car is your best bet. Remember that you have a lot to do and see around Frazier Park despite its modest, 28-acre size. The village is dotted with lush forests and picnic spaces, not to mention there's a playground, skate park, as well as multipurpose courts — and that's not even accounting for all the surrounding attractions. And if you're flexible with your travel dates, try coming here during Fiesta Days, a three-day celebration complete with music, parades, exciting raffles, and lots of good food: in short, a local favorite.

There are plenty of attraction guides and budget-friendly tips for a trip to Los Angeles that'll give a lot of value to a bigger city getaway, but sometimes you just crave Frazier Park's cozy charm and slow-paced life. And while dining choices around here are a bit sparse, they're still hearty and inviting. Local favorites like Caveman Cavey's Pizza perfectly capture the village's unpretentious vibe without compromising on taste or quality — the loaded baked potato pizza, in particular, comes highly recommended. The wings and BLT are often named among the must-tries, too, and don't forget to end the meal with one of their signature freshly-made brownies.

If you're planning to stay overnight, you have a couple of good accommodation options, too. Frazier View Motel, for example, is not only located right in the village center, but it's also pet-friendly and constantly praised for its clean, comfy rooms and great rates (under $100 a night). For a proper mountain escape, though, you might want to book one of the chalet rentals in the nearby Pine Mountain Club – think a 20-minute drive. Pricing and amenities will vary among different options, but many of them include fireplaces, grills, and even hot tubs. If you're coming to Frazier Park during the warmer months, you might want to head southeast instead and spend a day at Castaic Lake. It's California's ultimate dazzling reservoir for some old-fashioned summer recreation.

Frazier Park's main draw is, hands-down, its natural backdrop dominated by the San Emigdio Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can't miss out on the Wind Wolves Preserve, an incredible 93,000-acre nature preserve that's free to visit. The site is home to everything from tule elk and wildlife corridors to gorgeous wildflowers and archeological sites. Here, you'll also find a family campground, picnic pavilions, ponds, educational guided hikes, and even a couple of evening stargazing events. Hikers will also be happy to learn that the Frazier Mountain Road spans roughly 13.6 miles and promises amazing mountain views.

Mount Pinos, home to the tallest peak of the range, is unmissable. Known for its clear, low-light skies, this is an astronomy lover's dream. The main viewing point is right in the parking lot, just a little over a mile away from the mountain's peak. Hiking up there shouldn't take more than two hours, and the trail itself is considered moderate in difficulty. Take your dog along for the walk, but keep in mind that you'll probably run into a swarm of bugs or two.

For ATV and off-road riders, though, the nearby Hungry Valley SVRA might be the better choice. Home to more than 130 miles of scenic, rugged terrain and just a 10-minute drive from Frazier Park, this is a place that welcomes adventurers of all experience levels. There's a one-acre mini-track called the "beginners area" perfect for first-timers, and a more challenging trail network in the back-country section for more experienced OHVers. You'll also get an open riding zone that's over 4,000 acres, and for anyone looking to go on a multiple-day riding getaway, there are 11 campgrounds on-site you can choose from.