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Goodwin Education Center

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Goodwin Education Center

Goodwin Education Center is an excellent resource on the history and unique nature of the Carrizo Plain and the Elkhorn Plain. The center provides visitors with knowledge of endangered plants and animals native to the San Joaquin Valley. Also, you will learn about the San Andreas Fault geology, the uniqueness and significance of the Painted Rock, and the areas farming history. Goodwin Education Center operates seasonally from December to May. You can visit between Thursday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Located 241 miles southwest of Death Valley National Park and 146 miles south of Pinnacles National Park, Goodwin Education Center is the ideal place for group tours. You can plan with friends or family for a guided or self-guided tour. You will get to see exhibits and interpretive displays. Also, the center has wheelchair-accessible restrooms. You can enjoy recreational activities like horseback riding, hiking, biking, hunting, and wildlife watching.

What to See and Do

Hiking And Biking

Soda Lake Trail and Boardwalk

The Soda Lake trail and boardwalk is easy to hike. You won't enjoy biking on this trail as it's considered short. It's better if you hike. No pets are allowed, so consider leaving your dog at home.

Length: 1.3 miles

Intensity: Easy

Caliente Ridge Trail

You can bike or hike the Caliente Ridge Trail, and if you decide to bring your dog, ensure it is on a leash. You can also watch birds or view beautiful wildflowers. It is an open trail all through the year.

Length: 16.9 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

If you want to fish, you might consider heading to the Sequoia National Forest, which has rivers flowing from the nearby mountains. Anglers get the chance to cash fish from rivers and streams or go pond or lake fishing. Lake Isabella and Hume are excellent for boating and fishing, and with luck, you might catch several fish. Before heading for the rivers or lakes, remember to visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to know the rules and regulations.

Climbing

You can try rock climbing around Death Valley National Park but ensure you have the appropriate climbing gear. The rock quality isn't that good—it's best left for experienced rock climbers. Also, you may try a few routes to guide you in climbing the remote canyons.

Wildlife Viewing

You can't be sure to see specific animals as wildlife viewing changes with seasons in this area. If you are lucky, you might see coyotes, antelopes, mountain lions, Tule elk, black-tailed deer, and various bird species.

Picnicking

There aren’t any established picnicking zones around this area, but you might find some great spots in Carrizo Plain National Monument. You could find an open area with a great view, possibly with trees to provide shade.

Horseback Riding

The area is a vast open space that is ideal for horseback riding. You can go for a ride to view the Carrizo Plain National Monument. Ensure you are updated with the park's rules and regulations concerning horses and riding.

Interpretive Programs

During a guided tour, you may witness interpretive displays and exhibits. These will be displays of endangered animals and plants in the San Joaquin Valley. The tour guides will share the history of these displays to help you understand their significance in the area's human history. While visiting Goodwin Education Center, you can learn about the benefits of a sustainable environment. You may also learn how to care for and preserve our environment.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Goodwin Education Center doesn’t offer any BLM RV camping options. Camping grounds within the area include Selby Campground, KCL Campground, Aliso Park Campground, Sycamore Campground, and Nira Campground. These spots will allow easy access to one or more popular destinations around Carrizo Plain National Monument. Some campgrounds may have sites with fire rings, picnic tables, wheelchair-accessible vault toilets, horse corrals, and grills. If it’s your first-time camping, you can use the BLM camping near me map and guide to help you settle on any Bureau of Land Management camping sites.

Free Camping

While camping in California, you can find free camping spots on BLM or USFS land. Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, which wouldn't guarantee a spot. There are certain areas in Carrizo Plain National Monument that offer Bureau of Land Management free camping. If you are uncertain about these areas, contact the park to get guidance on which sections are for open camping.

RV Rentals Near Goodwin Education Center Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Goodwin Education Center BLM trip

As you prepare for your Goodwin Education Center BLM RV camping, be sure that you pack the necessary supplies. You will need to carry enough water, clothes, footwear, insect repellent, and sunblock. Also, equip your RV with cookware.

There are several Bureau of Land Management campgrounds close to Goodwin Education Center where you can camp for free or at a fee. Before heading out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

During your visit to Goodwin Education Center, you will learn the significance of caring for our environment. You may need to put what you learn into practice by cleaning up after yourself when camping on BLM land. Pack any trash, and collect cans and plastics for recycling. Also, in the absence of flushing toilets, ensure that you bury human waste at least 200 feet from water sources. Avoid confronting wildlife or causing unnecessary panic. Some animals could threaten your safety. Watch them from a distance and follow all safety rules and regulations.