Silverwood Lake Recreation
Fishing at Silverwood Lake in California, during the Catch A Special Thrill event (C.A.S.T.) DWR/2014
Update December 24, 2025: Due to the incoming storm, Silverwood Lake in San Bernardino County and Pyramid Lake in Los Angeles County will be temporarily closed for recreation December 24 – December 25. DWR will also be making releases through the gated spillway at Pyramid Dam into Piru Creek to manage reservoir levels. The public should avoid recreating near Piru Creek during this time, as flow levels may vary and create swift water conditions.
Update: For information about Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, visit California Department of Parks and Recreation.
Silverwood Lake is a reservoir in the San Gabriel Mountains, 90 minutes from Los Angeles, that receives water from the East Branch of the California Aqueduct. Silverwood Lake generates energy through turbines at the south end, then the water moves to contracting agencies or flows on to Lake Perris. The lake, formed by the Cedar Springs Dam, is part of the Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area (SRA).
With four campgrounds, two swim beaches, several picnic areas, and a marina where visitors can either rent a boat or launch their own, Silverwood Lake SRA offers multiple recreational opportunities.
DWR routinely monitors SWP reservoirs for harmful algal blooms. For current conditions, visit DWR's algal bloom webpage.
Silverwood Lake is located off Highway 138, which leads to the entrance kiosk. There, visitors can pay entry fees and receive more information about the lake. Car and boat trailer parking lots are located in several areas throughout the park.
The Silverwood Marina and main launch ramp are at the south end, to the right of the entrance station. This seven-lane ramp is the only launch ramp for gas-powered boats on the lake.
Cleghorn Smallcraft Car-Top Launch Ramp is located west of the main launch ramp in an area of the lake that restricts power boats.
New Mesa and Mesa Campgrounds offer 136 family sites, 97 of which offer RV hookups, and include tables, grills, and fire rings. These sites can each accommodate up to eight people and three vehicles. Reservation fees include one car; each additional vehicle is $10. Restrooms and showers are nearby.
Valle, Barranca and Rio group campgrounds are located within a quarter-mile from the lake. The three group sites have barbecues, tables, and restrooms with showers. They each hold up to 100 people and 30 cars.
Miller Canyon’s three group sites are four miles from the lake. These sites hold up to 40 people and 20 vehicles. These three sites include tables, grills, and a nearby restroom.
Reserve campsites at ReserveCalifornia or call (800) 444-7275.
Silverwood Lake offers 976 acres of water recreation. The northern part of the lake has a water ski area with a 35-mph maximum speed limit. Most of the south part of the lake and the coves in the north part have a speed limit of five mph.
During the warmer months and holidays, Silverwood Lake tends to fill its limit of 125 boats on the water. It is advised to make a reservation before arriving at the lake during this time. Reservations can be made at ReserveCalifornia.
Boat rentals are available at Silverwood Lake Marina. Rentals include pontoons, aluminum boats, jet skis, kayaks, and pedal boats. For more information about rental boats, visit Rocky Mountain Recreation Company.
The most common fish in the lake are catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie.
For more information, view the Fish Planting Schedule.
The lake is seasonally stocked with rainbow trout. For more information about the planting schedule, call the marina at (760) 389-2299.
Two swim beaches are available on the south end of the lake. One is near the Cleghorn day use area and the other is near the marina.
Silverwood Lake SRA has several paved and unpaved trails throughout the park, which makes the area an excellent place for hiking and bicycling. For a map of the trails, visit the Silverwood Lake SRA brochure.
Sycamore Landing, Live Oak Landing, and Chamise are picnic areas only accessible by boat or trail. These areas are on a first come, first serve basis. Restrooms are available at these areas.
Contact
Park Hours
Open 7 days a week
Day Use: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Boating: 7 a.m. - Sunset