Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

Welcome to Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

Visitors to Millerton Lake State Recreation Area (SRA) can experience a wide range of outdoor activities at this central Sierra Nevada foothill reservoir. The park lies in Fresno and Madera counties, bifurcated by the San Joaquin River channel, traversing its historical route from the Sierra Crest to the California Delta. Millerton Lake SRA is host to a multiuse trail system and to over forty miles of shoreline. The several thousand square acres of water surface area is popular with boaters and fishermen. Locals and out-of-town visitors enjoy the temperate climate, with warm to hot summers and cool winters. The region is the traditional and ceremonial homeland of the Dumna and Kechaye, a Yokuts Native American group of Central California. Their involvement in the park and impact on the landscape is appreciated by visitors daily.

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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.

Location - Directions
The area is 20 miles northeast of Fresno via Highway 41 and Highway 145.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.