Open
— Open year-round. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
About
Wildcat Recreation Area Campground is located on the shores of Eastman Lake, a 1,780-acre reservoir fed by the Chowchilla River in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the campground serves as a base for water recreation, fishing, and equestrian activities. The facility includes 16 standard campsites and 3 equestrian sites equipped with horse corrals.
Eastman Lake holds the distinction of being California's first designated Trophy Bass Fishery by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, attracting anglers seeking a challenging fishing experience. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills covered in tall grasses and scattered oak trees, with views of distant mountain peaks. Wildlife is abundant in the area, including bobcats, golden eagles, mountain lions, hawks, and wood ducks.
The campground provides water, fire pits, picnic tables, BBQ grills, vault toilets, and access to showers. Equestrian campers can explore trails directly from their sites. The Sierra National Forest lies a short drive to the east. General store and fuel services are located 20 miles away in Raymond.
Directions
From Chowchilla, follow Avenue 26 east to Road 29. Turn left and follow Road 29 north to Eastman Lake.
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