The Park at River Walk

The Park at River Walk is a public park located in Bakersfield, California. The park is 32acre, and contains two lakes connected by a stream. It is also the location of the Spectrum Amphitheater, one of two large outdoor theaters in Bakersfield . The park is located next to the Kern River Bike Trail. It is also located near the Calloway Drive Interchange for the Westside Parkway.HistoryWhen the land between the Kern River and Stockdale Hwy. was divided for future development, an odd shaped lot was created. The lot was L shaped, with limited street access. It also had large frontage access to the river, and the Kern River Parkway. The land provided the perfect location for a large public park. As a result, the land was donated to the City of Bakersfield in 1995.In coordination with the developer and the City, the land was developed into a public park. It was also given to the city for maintenance and operation. The park also became the centerpiece for the development, which includes a mixture of residential, commercial, and retail space. The park was completed and opened in 2006.AmenitiesThe park consists of two lakes, which also act as water recharge basins for ground water. The upper lake has a surface area of 3acre. The lower lake is 2acre and has become a popular fishing spot. Both lakes are connected by a stream that winds through the park. Four bridges cross the stream. The centerpiece of the park is the Bright House Amphitheater. The stage was designed to appear to be an island, with the lake behind it and a stream running in front. An access road, hidden from the seating area, allows for large equipment to be moved in.