Huntington Lake Fresno Day Trip: Fishing, Boating & Camping

Located 80 miles northeast of Fresno in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Huntington Lake was constructed in 1912. It is part of the Big Creek Hydroelectric Project, which provides power to Southern California. The lake has four dams and feeds into Shaver Lake to the southwest. One of the most popular Huntington Lake events is the High Sierra Regatta, a summer sailing competition at the lake.

At an elevation of 6,955 feet, Huntington Lake is a beautiful mountain getaway. The best time to visit is spring or summer; although lovely, winter can be brutal. Like Fallen Leaf Lake near Tahoe, Huntington Lake is perfect for those who want an unspoiled and beautiful mountain setting, camping, or renting a cabin. It is the ideal place to recharge and connect with nature. Famous for water sports, the lake is well known for camping, and several campgrounds are nearby.

Huntington Lake Camping

The first is Deer Creek Campground, which can get a little crowded during certain times of the year. However, the fact that it is only a stone’s throw from the lake’s shore makes it worth it. The second camping area is the Catavee campground, which offers more secluded spots than those at Deer Creek—giving campers the feeling of being alone yet close enough to access the lake. Watercraft rentals are within walking distance of most campgrounds, along with a couple of convince stores. There are five additional Forest Service Campgrounds around the lakes and nearby vicinity. All campgrounds have reservations available and are usually open from June through October.

Huntington Lake Cottages Cottages

Lakeview Cottages offers overnight accommodations for those who desire a few more creature comforts. Weather permitting, the cottages can be rented between Memorial Day and mid-September. These historic cabins provide a rustic vacation with all the necessary amenities. There is even free Wi-Fi for those who cannot leave technology behind. https://lakeviewcottages.net/

Fishing Huntington Lake

The lake’s water is generally cold but tolerable and provides a refreshing opportunity for swimmers. However, there is a beach area for the kids and those who prefer to lay in the sand to soak in some rays. Huntington Lake is a favorite with anglers, both experienced and novice. Trolling and shoreline fishing are popular at Huntington Lake. Aluminum rental boats, rowboats, canoes, and kayaks are available. Guests with their boats also have access to a dock area. https://www.huntingtonlakemarina.com/

Getting There

Huntington Lake is between Tool House Road and Lake Huntington Road, about 20 minutes northeast of Shaver Lake. The drive to Huntington Lake is simple, but getting lost in the mountains is easy. Day-trippers should plan and bring a detailed map or a reliable GPS

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