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Kids & Families

Bishop, with its big backyard, is a haven for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and quality time together. With a diverse range of activities suitable for all ages, Bishop offers an unforgettable experience for multi-generational families.

Photo @sabrina_obryan

A big backyard for the whole family

Where in the world is the fishing, hiking, climbing, biking, camping, and so much more a world-class experience for adults AND a place for kids to safely learn, grow, and have fun and perhaps follow in their folks’ footsteps? In Bishop and in our big backyard! Bishop is child-centered and family friendly. Just about anything a grown up can do, a kid can try; and with the right guidance, preparation, and gear families can make magical memories together. While there are numerous fun activities to be enjoyed by and with kids, here are details on a few of the best and highlights about many more.

Kids Rule Blogs
kids in truck
Photo @johngastaldophoto

Things to Do: Kids & Families

Highlights

  • Bishop and its big backyard is the place for multi-generational families to stay, play, and connect.
  • Outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, and bouldering are kid-friendly
  • Take the whole family to soak and splash in the local, historic hot springs.
  • Whether it’s fun in the summer sun or reveling in a winter wonderland, Bishop isa year-round destination for kids of all ages.
  • Just about anything a grown up can do, a kid can try, with the right guidance, prep, and gear.

Resources

Always a good day
Always a good day when you can say you'll be in the Bishop area tomorrow.
- Brian C
kids fishing

Hooked on Fishing

The Eastern Sierra is a world-class, world-renowned fishing destination. And it’s not just for experienced anglers. It’s for everyone! Whether you want a once-in-a-lifetime fishing experience or to develop your budding angler into a fishing fanatic, our big backyard is where you get hooked.

In summer the high Sierra lakes and creeks are all open to sensational fishing and many settings have easy access and great accommodations for kids and folks with disabilities. Winter fishing in the lower Owens River and many creeks and canals of the Owens Valley offer super spots for fly, lure, and bait fishing. Several lakes and ponds have fishing piers for kids and folks with adaptive gear to fish directly over the water.

Every year there are contests, festivals, fishing derbies, and opening days at numerous locations in the Eastern Sierra. Some are specifically designed for children and others have excellent opportunities for kids to fish with adult supervision. Kids will love the thrill of catching their first fish, and grandparents can share their fishing wisdom. Fishing is a year-round activity for everyone in the Eastern Sierra.

Here’s a great article on how to Get Yourself and Your Kids Ready for Fishing in the Eastern Sierra.

Two people dressed as Mr. Potato Head stand on a street in Bishop, California, with a donkey carrying a stuffed alligator in a riding costume. visit bishop

Horseback Riding and Mule Packing

Horseback riding is a cherished dream for many kids and adults. In Bishop it’s not just a hobby, for some it’s a lifestyle. Bishop is known as the Mule Capital of the World and where there are mules, there are horses. Throughout the Eastern Sierra equestrian centers and mule pack stations have carried riders and gear into the mountains, down the valley, and across the desert for decades.

Equestrian centers here have long-standing, well developed programs designed to cater to riders of all ages and skill levels. They offer lessons on horse care, riding techniques, and safety with a distinct blend of traditional and modern equestrian practices. Situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada they boast prime riding trails that meander through this scenic backdrop, offering unparalleled experiences for riders. Whether you treat your little one to a 15-minute walk-and-lead ride, go as a family on an afternoon trail outing, or enroll kids in a packing camp an equestrian adventure in our big backyard is an extra special experience.

Check out our page on all things Horseback Riding and Packing here.

Rock formations under a starry night sky, with a large, arch-like rock in the center foreground, grace the Eastern Sierra near Bishop, California. visit bishop
Photo by @electriceye.photography

Camping under the Stars

For kids who are lucky enough to have their own backyard, it’s likely that they’ve ‘set up camp’ with a tent or blankets and maybe even spent the night out under the stars. It’s likely that many other kids have dreamed of going camping too. Our big backyard is perfect for camping. It’s one of the best family adventures that opens doors (and tent flaps) to countless other outdoor experiences.

Here’s a great article on Camping Successfully with Kids.

Camping is year-round in our small town with campgrounds near town, along the river, and up in the mountains. Bring your RV, trailer, or tent and find a perfect site no matter the season. Summer is best in Bishop Creek Canyon and winter is wonderful in the warmth of the high desert.

This is an extensive guide to campgrounds in the Eastern Sierra.

kids bouldering

Go Bouldering

If you have a little climber in the making, this is your dream destination. Even though Bishop is a world-class, pro-level climbing destination, there are kid-friendly boulder problems that encourage confidence and build skill. Parents, if you’re not seasoned climbers then start your kiddos out in the youth programs at the local, downtown climbing gym, Sage to Summit.

When you’re ready get the beta on the best beginner climbs in the two main bouldering areas, the Buttermilks and the Volcanic Tablelands, chat with the friendly folks at Sage to Summit. Or check out our climbing page and interactive map here.

Bishop City Park
Photo by Ryan Longnecker

Bishop’s Urban Playground

While Bishop is renowned for its outdoor adventures, the town itself offers plenty of fun for families. The Bishop City Park is a local gem, featuring a skate park, pump track, and BMX track that will keep kids entertained for hours. Cool off on a hot day at the Bishop Park Pool, a refreshing oasis for the whole family.

When the weather doesn’t cooperate or you need a break from the outdoors, Bishop has a variety of indoor activities to keep everyone entertained. Enjoy a classic movie experience at the Bishop Twin Theatre. It’s a perfect way to relax and spend quality time together and yesteryear’s prices. Strike up some fun at the local bowling alley. Bowling is a timeless activity that brings families together. Discover the region’s rich history at the Laws Railroad Museum and Historical Site. Kids will love exploring the historic trains and exhibits.

Three people in winter wear smile outdoors in a snowy setting in Bishop, California, including an elf costume, a white coat, and a red sweater. visit bishop

Our Winter Wonderland

What kid (and kid-at-heart) can resist sledding, snowshoeing, ice-skating, a visit with Santa, and hot chocolate and cookies in the snow-covered Sierra Nevada? Practically none.

Cardinal Village Resort is where the fun heats up when the weather cools down. This rustic hideaway in Bishop Creek Canyon, is a year-round haven for families. In winter the resort’s pond becomes wild ice for skating, bring your own skates or borrow from the resort. Kids of all ages can enjoy the thrill of sledding on gentle slopes, or explore the area on snowshoes. Their annual Christmas Festival is a tradition not to be missed.

It’s a magical experience surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Keoughs Hot Springs Kids

Soak and Splash

Regardless of age, no visit to Bishop is complete without a soak at the historic Keough’s Hot Springs. This natural oasis offers a rejuvenating experience for the entire family. Relax in the warm mineral waters, surrounded by stunning mountain views. Keough’s Hot Springs is a perfect way to end a day of adventure or simply unwind.

Bishop truly offers something for everyone. From heart-pumping outdoor activities to relaxing indoor escapes, this enchanting destination is the ideal place to create lasting memories with your family.

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