The lake serves as a critical storage reservoir for the State Water Project, supplying water to Southern California.
Bald eagles are frequently sighted near the lake from late autumn through early spring.
The reservoir was created by the construction of the Cedar Springs Dam, an earth-fill structure.
The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the recreation area, connecting the Mojave Desert to the San Bernardino Mountains.
The lake reaches an elevation of approximately 3,350 feet above sea level.
Water levels are subject to fluctuation based on regional demand and pumping operations by the Department of Water Resources.
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is a reservoir located in the San Bernardino Mountains, formed by the Cedar Springs Dam as part of the California State Water Project. The park features 13 miles of hiking trails, including a segment of the Pacific Crest Trail that traverses the northern ridges. Visitors have access to two primary swimming beaches, Cleghorn and Sawpit, which are designated for water recreation. The lake is a notable fishery, stocked regularly with rainbow trout and also containing populations of largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. Boating is permitted, with a full-service marina providing rentals and fuel for watercraft. The surrounding terrain consists of chaparral and pine-oak woodlands, providing habitat for bald eagles and other raptors during winter months. The park contains 136 developed campsites, several of which offer full hookups for recreational vehicles. The facility is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
The ridgeline trails overlooking the reservoir provide the widest panoramic views of the water and surrounding peaks.
Arrive early on summer weekends as the park often reaches vehicle capacity and closes the entrance gate.
Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare on the water and improve visibility for spotting fish.
Verify the status of swimming areas on the official park website before arrival, as beaches may occasionally close due to water quality testing.
Ignoring the 'no wake' zones on the water, which are strictly enforced for safety and environmental protection.
Park may close temporarily during extreme fire danger conditions; boat launch facilities may be restricted during low water levels.
Leash all pets at all times; do not feed wildlife; pack out all trash to maintain the water quality.
