The valley was inhabited for millennia by the indigenous Tübatulabal and Kawaiisu people, and various bedrock mortar and pictograph sites can be found throughout the region.

He would return along the same route in December, 1845 as part of John C. Frémont's third expedition, this time with cartographer and artist Edward Kern.

Around 1860, a gold rush in the northern part of the valley led to the founding of another boom town, Whiskey Flat (renamed Kernville in 1864).

Mountain biking, rock climbing and backpacking are possible year-round, and rental equipment and guide services are a crucial part of the local economy.

Numerous hot springs, renowned by early settlers to the valley, can be found near the top of Kern River Canyon.