2015 Map of Taft

About this map

The Taft oil fields and the southwestern edge of the San Joaquin Valley define this landscape, where industrial infrastructure meets concentrated residential hubs. The city is surrounded by distinct communities including Ford City, Taft Heights, and South Taft, reflecting a dense pattern of settlement tied to the local energy economy. Taft College stands as a central institutional landmark within the urban grid, while the Westside District Cem and the Taft-Kern County Airport mark the transition toward the open terrain of the Midway Valley. To the north and west, the topographic relief of the Elk Hills and Buena Vista Hills rises sharply from the valley floor. These heights are crisscrossed by specialized routes like Gas Company Rd and Petroleum Club Rd, underscoring the area's long-standing connection to the petroleum industry. Drainage is defined by seasonal watercourses such as Buena Vista Creek and Sandy Cr, which navigate the arid gaps between the uplifted hills.