The lake is formed by Friant Dam, which stands 319 feet high and was completed in 1942.
The original town of Millerton served as the first county seat of Fresno County before being flooded by the reservoir's creation.
The courthouse structure, built in 1867, is one of the few surviving buildings saved from the flooded town and is preserved as a museum.
The lake reaches a maximum depth of approximately 270 feet when full.
The park provides critical habitat for the golden eagle, in addition to the wintering bald eagle population.
It sits at an elevation of approximately 600 feet, marking the gateway to the Sierra Nevada foothills.
The San Joaquin River, which feeds the reservoir, originates in the high Sierra Nevada peaks.
Millerton Lake State Recreation Area features a massive man-made reservoir created by the Friant Dam, which spans the San Joaquin River. The park encompasses 14,000 acres of land and water, offering extensive opportunities for boating, water skiing, and fishing. The area contains historical remnants of the original Millerton Courthouse, which was relocated from the now-submerged town of Millerton. The landscape consists of rolling oak-covered foothills typical of the Central Valley transition zone. Visitors can access multiple boat launch ramps, designated swimming areas, and miles of hiking trails. During the winter, the lake serves as a significant nesting and wintering site for bald eagles. The climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters.
The observation deck near the Friant Dam offering a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding foothills.
Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce the intense glare reflecting off the water.
Check the water levels online before arrival, as boat ramp accessibility fluctuates significantly with the reservoir's capacity.
Pack substantial shade, as there is limited natural coverage in many of the primary recreation and picnic zones.
Attempting to swim in non-designated areas, as underwater hazards and currents near the dam are dangerous.
Museum hours for the courthouse are limited; boat ramps may close during extremely low water levels.
No glass containers allowed on beach areas; keep dogs on a leash at all times; pack out all trash.
