The American dream of freedom and the pursuit of happiness is embodied in this park. Founded in 1908, this was California’s first town financed and governed solely by African Americans. The town of Allensworth was named for and co-founded by a former slave.
A water shortage and economic slump led to the town’s demise after World War I. California State Parks purchased the land in 1974 and began restoring several buildings. Now, special events and a yearly rededication ceremony keep this spirited history alive.
Touring the restored buildings gives you a realistic view of residents’ lives. Desks line the two-classroom schoolhouse, considered the best in Central Valley at the time. A general store stocked with dry goods gives a glimpse of daily living.
You can drive between buildings or bring your bike to this cycl
The American dream of freedom and the pursuit of happiness is embodied in this park. Founded in 1908, this was California’s first town financed and governed solely by African Americans. The town of Allensworth was named for and co-founded by a former slave.
A water shortage and economic slump led to the town’s demise after World War I. California State Parks purchased the land in 1974 and began restoring several buildings. Now, special events and a yearly rededication ceremony keep this spirited history alive.
Touring the restored buildings gives you a realistic view of residents’ lives. Desks line the two-classroom schoolhouse, considered the best in Central Valley at the time. A general store stocked with dry goods gives a glimpse of daily living.
You can drive between buildings or bring your bike to this cycle-friendly park. Located north of Bakersfield, this park has 15 campsites open year-round for tents or RVs. A picnic area also is available for day trippers.
Activities in the park
Biking
1 campground in Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park
Sitting a tad north of the town itself, John Whitehead Jr. Campground offers visitors a place to stay with 115 campsites open year round. Normal amenities are included, with camp stoves and picnic tables at each campsite and flush toilets/showers nearby. Other features include turf, trees, and shade ramadas that help guests lounge and enjoy some n Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Campgrounds operated by federal and state agencies are not yet bookable on Hipcamp. Learn more.
Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park
Experience the proud history of California’s first town founded by African Americans.
The American dream of freedom and the pursuit of happiness is embodied in this park. Founded in 1908, this was California’s first town financed and governed solely by African Americans. The town of Allensworth was named for and co-founded by a former slave.
A water shortage and economic slump led to the town’s demise after World War I. California State Parks purchased the land in 1974 and began restoring several buildings. Now, special events and a yearly rededication ceremony keep this spirited history alive.
Touring the restored buildings gives you a realistic view of residents’ lives. Desks line the two-classroom schoolhouse, considered the best in Central Valley at the time. A general store stocked with dry goods gives a glimpse of daily living.
You can drive between buildings or bring your bike to this cycl
The American dream of freedom and the pursuit of happiness is embodied in this park. Founded in 1908, this was California’s first town financed and governed solely by African Americans. The town of Allensworth was named for and co-founded by a former slave.
A water shortage and economic slump led to the town’s demise after World War I. California State Parks purchased the land in 1974 and began restoring several buildings. Now, special events and a yearly rededication ceremony keep this spirited history alive.
Touring the restored buildings gives you a realistic view of residents’ lives. Desks line the two-classroom schoolhouse, considered the best in Central Valley at the time. A general store stocked with dry goods gives a glimpse of daily living.
You can drive between buildings or bring your bike to this cycle-friendly park. Located north of Bakersfield, this park has 15 campsites open year-round for tents or RVs. A picnic area also is available for day trippers.
Activities in the park
1 campground in Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park
Sitting a tad north of the town itself, John Whitehead Jr. Campground offers visitors a place to stay with 115 campsites open year round. Normal amenities are included, with camp stoves and picnic tables at each campsite and flush toilets/showers nearby. Other features include turf, trees, and shade ramadas that help guests lounge and enjoy some n Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Public campgrounds (book externally) —