Eastman Lake is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills surrounded by grasslands and blue oaks. At maximum capacity, the lake has 1,780 surface acres and holds 150,000 acre feet of water.
The lake was created by the construction of Buchanan Dam on the Chowchilla River. The dam is an earth and rockfill structure 205 feet high and 1,800 feet in length. At 600' elevation, summers are warm and the winters mild, allowing for year-round recreation.
Built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control, irrigation and recreation, the lake is a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
The Chowchilla area provides for a variety of recreation activities. Included are: picnicking, fishing, swimming, hiking, volleyball, horseshoe pits, and an aqua-toy. Restrooms are available. The Monument Ridge area has a disc golf course, a softball diamond, picnic tables and portable restrooms.
Equestrians, hikers, and mountain bikers may enjoy the trails at Eastman Lake. For current trail information, contact the park office.
Dogs welcome in day use area, on leash. Please remember to pick up after your dogs.
Day use parking: $4
Hours: Sunrise to sunset.