BLM welcomes public comment on the draft Keysville Recreation Management Area Plan

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on a draft Recreation Area Management Plan and associated environmental assessment for the Keysville Special Recreation Management Area near Lake Isabella, Kern County. Interested parties may submit written comments until Friday, Aug. 30.

This draft Recreation Area Management Plan would make it easier and safer for the public to access and recreate within this spectacular natural area, providing social and economic benefits to the region and supporting the Biden administration’s “America the Beautiful” initiative, which includes efforts to increase access for outdoor recreation, while preserving public lands for present and future generations. 

The proposed Recreation Area Management Plan includes a range of alternatives that address Special Recreation Permits, designated and dispersed camping, travel, facilities, day-use areas, river recreation, other forms of recreation, general management, visitor services and safety.

Keysville Special Recreation Management Area consists of approximately 10,860 acres of BLM-managed lands located north and west of the community of Lake Isabella, CA. The SRMA is a popular destination for a variety of recreation activities, including whitewater rafting, riverside camping, recreational gold prospecting, OHV use, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Several competitive motorcycle riding trials are held under special recreation permits each year.

“The BLM is working to better define access and future management actions for the Keysville Special Recreation Management Area,” said Bakersfield Field Manager Gabriel Garcia. “Together with input from partners and the public, the BLM developed a range of alternatives to address management and recreation actions and protection of natural and cultural resources.”

Public comments may be submitted electronically through the BLM National NEPA Register or via email to rldaniels@blm.gov, by fax to 661-391-6041; or by mail to BLM Bakersfield Field Office, Attn: Keysville RAMP, 35126 McMurtrey Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93308.

Visit Keysville Special Recreation Management Area online for more information. For more information, please contact the Bakersfield Field Office at 661-391-6000.