Millerton Lake Campground

Remember folks, this is a lake, so boating is definitely a favorite activity among visitors. Boasting three launch ramps and nearby parking, anyone is welcome to bring a boat of their choosing and cruise on the calm waters. The miles of open water are great for all kinds of boating, from pontoon to fishing, even local boating groups that stage sailboat races and regattas in the summer months! Be sure to check the water levels, as California droughts can greatly affect the lake. You can also find boat rentals here, though there are other rental opportunities in the area.

Due to the heavy boat traffic on the lake itself, anglers alike (whether they are looking for the abundant bass, catfish, or trout that populate Millerton Lake) generally head up the San Joaquin arm of the reservoir where water sports aren’t allowed. Many fishers at Millerton partake in kayak fishing, and stick to different parts of the water where the different species reside (more information on overall angling tendencies at the park can be found here. Per norm, you’re gonna need that handy dandy CA Fishing License.

If floating, fishing, and frolicking in the water (is that a thing? Let’s make it a thing) isn’t on your criteria during your stay at Millerton, hiking is a very viable option for all visitors. The most common trail taken amongst guests is the South Shore Trail, also known as Winchell Ridge Trail, a fairly short trek available for all levels of hikers. The path hugs the shoreline for almost the entirety of the hike, and takes users through the serene rolling hills with grassland and oaks speckled across the landscape. If it doesn’t bother you (it doesn’t bother us), the grass usually turns brown towards the latter half of the summer due to the heat, but that’s not the only thing thats going to darken under the hot sun! On your hike, make sure to bring adequate sunscreen and water, as the blazing sun is no joke during the peak summer months.

On the stormier of days when the area gets pretty gusty, many water sport enthusiasts like to enjoy the water by none other than windsurfing. Little birdies have told us that if you plan on windsurfing, people have had the best luck launching from the east side of the lake. Wind speeds are around 5 mph in the morning and come to a solid 12 mph come afternoon, so at whatever time you should still have a good time out on the water!

Summer water temperature can get up to 80˚ F (WOW), so a cold water temp is no excuse to not take a dip somewhere off of some of the 47 miles of shoreline that border Millerton Lake. We highly recommend getting in the water to cool off after a hot day on the surrounding hills or just jump off your boat periodically during the day! Nonetheless, always stay safe whilst swimming in the lake, as lifeguards are only posted during the summer months.

Arguably one of the most unique elements of Millerton Lake SRA is the abundance of nesting bald eagles! The State Park actually leads guided tours during the winter months throughout the area where you can have the best chance at catching a glimpse of our glorious national bird. Millerton Lake actually has the largest population of wintering bald eagles in all of the San Joaquin Valley, who stop by after the brutal 1,600 mile migration from breeding grounds in Canada. You can catch some other awesome wildlife in area, including golden eagles, waterfowl, deer, bobcats, and even mountain lions if you are lucky. You might snag a peek at some foxes or badgers as well, or the several year-round nesting bald eagle pairs that can even be spotted during the summer!