Visitor Center:
Open each day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the visitor center is a good place to discover Eastman Lake. An audio-visual program, displays, and brochures are available to visitors. Group tours and ranger programs can be scheduled by calling 559-689-3255.
Fees:
The Corps of Engineers is now included in the America the Beautiful interagency pass! For a one time purchase of $80, you have access to all of your favorite Corps parks in addition to all the other federal public lands and national parks for one year after the date of purchase.
Individuals 62 years or older can buy a $10 lifetime senior pass, which does not expire. All other passes and kids 15 years or younger are free of charge at all federal recreation areas. Senior and access pass holders also receive a 50 percent discount on campsites at Corps-managed campgrounds.
Be sure to pick up your America the Beautiful pass at any of our parks as the money is turned right around and invested in the facilities to improve your recreational experience.
Get details about the America the Beautiful pass series here http://1.usa.gov/1T6TRMt.
One-day Pass $5. Day Use Shelter $30. Annual pass $40.The Corps Annual Pass gives unlimited access to day-use areas at any Corps park for one calendar year.
Camping:
The Codorniz Campground has 65 sites and is open all year. Each site has a parking spur, table and firepit/grill. Conveniently located restrooms provide flush toilets and hot showers. Ten people are permitted per campsite and there is a 14-day limit per stay.
Codorniz Campground sites are $20 per night; $30 with electricity and water; $30 for electricity, water and sewer; and $30 for universal access site.
Group Camping:
Three group camping areas in the Codorniz Recreation Area are available by reservation. Equestrian groups and non-profit organizations may also reserve the group equestrian area.
Wildcat Campground primitive sites, including family equestrian sites, are $20 per night.
Wildcat Campground Map
Group camping: North A (40 people) $80; North B (100 people) $90; South (160 people) $100; and Equestrian (60 people) $60.
Wireless internet access is available free to registered campers.
Reservations for the above camping are available through Reserve America at 1-877-444-6777 or on the web at WWW.RECREATION.GOV.
Recreation Areas:
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.
Boating:
Boating is permitted year round. The body of the lake provides plenty of space for water-skiing, sailing, and pleasure boating. Launch ramps with courtesy docks are located in the Chowchilla and Codorniz recreation areas. Certain parts of the lake have speed and closure restrictions. The Chowchilla River north of the lake is closed to all water recreation.
Trails:
Equestrians, hikers, and mountain bikers may enjoy the trails at Eastman Lake. For current trail information, contact the park office.
Fishing:
Eastman Lake has been designated as California's first Trophy Bass Fishery by the California Department of Fish and Game. Anglers may keep only one bass with a minimum length of 22". There is also a cumulative limit of 25 pan fish. Whether you are a beginner or an old pro, the lake offers a challenging fishing opportunity. Species include largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. Rainbow trout are planted during the winter months.
FISHING INFO
Hunting:
Hunting is permitted in the wildlife management area in accordance with California Hunting Regulations. Game may be taken with shotguns or bow.
HUNTING INFO
Historical Information:
The Yokut and Miwok tribes once claimed this area as their home. Evidence of their presence in the area is still evident, mostly in the form of mortar and metate areas, where they ground acorns for food. Also of historical interest is a monument to the Town of Buchanan located along the entrance road. This once thriving copper town now exists only in legend and a few tattered photos.