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.
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.
Need to Know
- Park is open year-round
The Chowchilla picnic shelter is a day use facility and can be reserved for 1 day at a time for $30. No camping.
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
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.
Nearby Attractions
The Observation Center is an ideal stopping place to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area.
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.
Contact Information
Default
PO BOX 67 RAYMOND CA 93653-0067
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 559-689-3255
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
50 miles north of Fresno, CA. Take Highway 99 north to Ave 17 east, follow to Road 26 north to Avenue 26 east to Road 29 north. Turn left on Road 29 and travel 8 miles to the park entrance. Follow the signs into the campground.
