California City, the third-largest city in area in the state (with 208 square miles within its boundaries), is known as a mecca for off-road enthusiasts, with Borax Bill Park, Jawbone Canyon OHV Park, and other OHV riding areas, recreation areas, and campsites. A 25,000-acre Desert Tortoise Preserve is located six miles northeast of California City, and they celebrate an annual Tortoise Days festival every May.
There’s plenty of recreation within the city as well, including the Tierra Del Sol Golf Club (a PGA course), adult and youth sports leagues, and an annual Renaissance Festival. Central Park features a 26-acre artificial lake, swimming pool, playground, senior center, and multi-purpose recreation center. California City is also home to several schools, churches, hotels, and community organizations.
Honda is currently renovating its Proving Center of California, a test track for Honda and Acura vehicles. The Hyundai-Kia Motors Proving Ground is a similar 4,300-square foot facility. Thanks in part to the California City’s great climate (averaging 271 sunny days per year), it is attractive to solar and renewable energy companies, with several building or planning to build new facilities or test sites.