September 20, 2026 - BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The Bureau of Land Management is inviting the public to roll up their sleeves and come out on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., to help renovate the Fountain Creek bed at the San Joaquin River Gorge Visitors Center for National Public Lands Day.

The Visitor Center is located at 40060 Smalley Road. Auberry. Participants are encouraged to bring water, snacks, hats, sunscreen, gloves and sturdy work boots. Water and Gatorade will be provided.

 

Volunteers are needed to help clean and repair the Discovery Trail Fountain Creek bed. The effort will include pulling weeds, trimming plants, removing rocks, clearing away debris, and putting down a new liner. In addition, participants will be brushing, weeding, and repairing the Discovery Trail area. As part of the day, participants will be treated to a demonstration of the atlatl, a prehistoric hunting weapon used long before the bow and arrow as well as the opportunity to try their skill at throwing the atlatl at targets. 

 

For more information about National Public Lands Day, visit the National Environmental Education Foundation website at NEEF USA. To register for the event or for more information, please reach out to BLM Bakersfield Outdoor Recreation Planner Nathan Bingham at (559) 855-3492, nbingham@blm.gov or the Bakersfield Field Office at (661) 391-6000, BLM_CA_Web_BK@blm.gov. 

 

The scenic San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area  is located just upstream from Millerton Lake State Recreation Area and includes lands in both Fresno and Madera counties. Multiple campground and day-use sites are available as well as a Visitor Center with extensive opportunities for educational experiences for visitors, schools, and other groups. With over 20 miles of outstanding multi-use trails that weave their way through the management area, there's a trail waiting for any adventure.

Source: BLM