Located in the heart of California's Mojave Desert, the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, also known as the Inyokern Airport, serves as a gateway to the region's unique landscape and attractions. As a small airport, it offers limited commercial flights but provides an essential connection to the nearby Naval Air Weapons Station and the surrounding community.
Getting to China Lake
The China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station is situated about 3 miles north of Inyokern, California, and 45 miles north of Ridgecrest. The airport's address is 1 Phantom Way, Inyokern, CA 93527. If you're planning to visit the area, here are some ways to get to China Lake:
- By Air: The airport receives flights from the US Navy and occasional charter flights. However, there are no commercial airlines operating at the airport. The nearest commercial airport is the Inyokern Airport (IYK), which is about 10 miles south of the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station.
- By Car: The airport is accessible via Highway 178, which connects to Highway 395. The drive from Ridgecrest takes approximately 45 minutes, while the drive from Bakersfield takes around 2.5 hours.
- By Bus: The Kern Transit bus service connects Inyokern to Ridgecrest and other nearby cities. However, the bus service is limited, and it's recommended to rent a car or book a taxi service for more convenience.
Airport Amenities and Services
While the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station is a small airport, it offers some basic amenities and services to support the needs of its passengers and personnel:
- Terminal Building: The airport's terminal building is modest, with limited seating and amenities. However, it provides a comfortable waiting area for passengers.
- Parking: The airport offers limited parking spaces, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Food and Beverages: There are no dining options available at the airport. However, the nearby town of Inyokern has several restaurants and cafes that serve a range of cuisine.
- Car Rentals: Car rental services are not available at the airport. However, passengers can book a car rental service in advance from nearby cities like Ridgecrest or Bakersfield.
Things to Do in China Lake
While the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station is a small airport, the surrounding area offers a range of attractions and activities that cater to different interests:
- Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake: The airport is situated within the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, which is a major research and development facility for the US Navy. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility, which includes the China Lake Museum and the U.S. Naval Museum of Armament and Technology.
- Maturango Museum: Located in Ridgecrest, the Maturango Museum showcases the region's natural and cultural history. The museum features exhibits on the Native American tribes of the region, as well as the area's unique geology and wildlife.
- Trona Pinnacles: The Trona Pinnacles are a unique geological formation located about 30 miles south of China Lake. The pinnacles are a popular spot for hiking and photography, and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Accommodations in China Lake
The China Lake area has limited accommodation options, but nearby cities like Ridgecrest and Inyokern offer a range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals:
- Best Western China Lake Inn: Located in Ridgecrest, the Best Western China Lake Inn offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and fitness center.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest: The Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest is a convenient option for travelers, with clean and comfortable rooms, as well as a free breakfast buffet.
- Inyokern Airport Motel: The Inyokern Airport Motel is a budget-friendly option that offers basic rooms and amenities, including free parking and Wi-Fi.
Travel Tips and Essentials
When traveling to China Lake, here are some essential tips and information to keep in mind:
- Weather: The China Lake area has a hot desert climate, with extremely high temperatures during the summer months. Visitors should pack accordingly, with sunscreen, hats, and light clothing.
- Transportation: While the airport offers limited transportation options, visitors can rent a car or book a taxi service to get around the area.
- Safety: The China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station is a secure facility, and visitors should be prepared to show identification and follow security protocols.
Gallery of China Lake
FAQs
What is the nearest commercial airport to China Lake?
+The nearest commercial airport to China Lake is the Inyokern Airport (IYK), which is about 10 miles south of the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station.
What are the transportation options available at China Lake?
+The China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station offers limited transportation options, including car rentals and taxi services. Visitors can also rent a car or book a taxi service from nearby cities like Ridgecrest or Bakersfield.
What are the accommodations available in China Lake?
+The China Lake area has limited accommodation options, but nearby cities like Ridgecrest and Inyokern offer a range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include the Best Western China Lake Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest, and Inyokern Airport Motel.