Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

With over 40 miles of shore land for water sports, this SRA offers visitors swimming, fishing, and boating. The hills surrounding the lake provide good hiking opportunities. Wildlife in the park includes ground squirrels, cottontails, mule deer, badgers and bald and golden eagles. During winter, the park has special boat tours to view the bald eagles. 

The lake was created by construction of the Friant Dam across the San Joaquin River in 1944. The park’s camping facilities include boat camping. The park contains the original Millerton County Courthouse, built in 1867. 

Picnicking–Picnic areas with barbecue grills and restrooms surround the lake. Groups of up to 100 may choose to reserve one of two Grange Grove picnic areas. South Finegold—reachable by car and boat—has tables, wood stoves and a shade ramada that can accommodate 150.

Boating–Millerton’s shoreline has three launch ramps with parking nearby. Snacks, beverages, bait and gas are available at Millerton Lake Marina. Local boating groups stage sailboat races and regattas in June and July.

Hiking and Bicycling–Trails range from level hiking areas to challenging mountain bike trails. Markers along a ¼-mile interpretive trail at Fort Miller campground explain the natural and cultural resources. The strenuous, hiking-only Buzzard’s Roost Trail at the north shore offers lake views. On the south shore, Blue Oak Trail provides a level, two-mile hike to Winchell Cove. An 11-mile trail follows the river canyon from South Finegold to the Bureau of Land Management’s rustic Squaw Leap campground.

Fishing–The shoreline habitat provides hiding places for an abundance of bass and catfish. Fishing tournaments are occasionally scheduled through special events permits. A valid California fishing license is required.

Camping–The north shore has 148 developed sites among oak and gray pine woodlands, 27 with electricity hookups. Each site has a table, fire ring, and access
to drinking water. Two group campgrounds can accommodate from 45 to 75 people.

Boat Camping–Temperance Flat has two dozen first-come, first-served sites reachable by boat. North Finegold can hold 15 fully-contained boats. Register in advance at the south shore park entrance during park hours. Read the boat camping information sheet for details on shore campsites, registration, marinas, safety requirements, and self-contained sanitation devices. Boaters should complete a boating safety course before operating their boats at Millerton.

TRAIL USE
Hiking Trails
Horseback Riding

DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Historical/Cultural Site
Picnic Areas
Exhibits and Programs
Fishing
Guided Tours
Interpretive Exhibits
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
Beach Area
Swimming
Windsurfing/Surfing
Family Programs
Geocaching