Covering 93,000 acres (380 km2) in Kern County, California, the preserve is located 35 miles (56 km) southwest of Bakersfield and features the San Emigdio Mountains and Pleito Hills.

The area provides a critical wildlife corridor between these mountain ranges and facilitates animal movement, thereby improving genetic diversity.

The Pleito site features some of the most intricate rock art in the world, while Cache Cave is known for its extensive collection of artifacts.

Though VR headsets are no longer available, this technology offered an innovative way to experience these sites during special events at the preserve.

[7][8][9][10] Wildlife includes Tule elk, deer, bear, Western rattlesnake, mountain lions, bobcats, desert tarantulas, and California condors.

[11] Endangered species at the preserve include the San Joaquin kit fox, Buena Vista Lake Shrew, blunt-nosed Leopard Lizard, and Bakersfield cactus.

[15] The preserve has hiking trails, a small waterfall, several ponds, picnic areas, a Ramada, restrooms, and a campground.

Outdoor education programs are offered for school children on ecology, wetland ecosystems, geology, and Native American lifeways.

[18] The annual Spring Nature Festival has been held in March since 2014, featuring exhibits, wildlife and wildflower viewing, and guided hikes.