Chowchilla Recreation Area Day Use

Chowchilla Recreation Day Use Area is located at the beautiful Eastman Lake, surrounded by rugged oak-covered hills. Visitors take advantage of this scenic setting for fishing, boating and hiking. Abundant wildlife in the area includes bobcats, Golden eagles, hawks, Wood ducks and Bald eagles. Natural Features: Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Range, Eastman Lake boasts spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The 1,780 surface-acre lake is fed by the Chowchilla River, a tributary of the San Joaquin River. Recreation: With warm summers and mild winters, visitors can take advantage of a range of activities including eight miles of trails available for hikers, mountain bikers or horseback riders. Eastman is the first lake designated by the California Department of Fish and Game as a Trophy Bass Fishery. Crappie, trout and catfish are also popular catches. Facilities: The picnic shelter can be reserved on a day to day basis only. Camping overnight is not allowed. The picnic shelter holds up to 100 people. A playground, horseshoe pits, and flush toilets are also available for use. Nearby Attractions: The visitor center is an ideal stopping place to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area.