Water Activities
The Sierra National Forest boasts some of the most coveted water recreation areas in the state of California, featuring boating, swimming and sailing lake opportunities. The Forest is divided into two primary recreation regions, The Bass Lake Ranger District (BLRD) to the north, and the High Sierra Ranger District (HSRD) to the south.
Elevations range from 900 feet to 14,000 feet suitable for numerous recreational opportunities. Situated on the BLRD, Bass Lake is nearly five miles long and is surrounded by beautiful pine trees. Boat launching facilities, mooring and rentals are available at several Bass Lake marinas. Shaver Lake is located on the HSRD, boasts nearly 2,200 acres on the surface. There are resorts, camps, campgrounds, picnic areas, fishing areas, marinas and other opportunities for the visitor to enjoy.
Boating - Motorized
BOATING ON THE SIERRA NATIONAL FOREST
Whatever your boating choice, the Sierra National Forest provides numerous opportunities for canoeing, water skiing, sailing, fishing, windsurfing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and house boating. For information on boating regulations make sure to check out the State of California Boating Safety website or for information on reservoir water levels, please visit our Forest Conditions page.
Several popular areas on the Forest area available for boating. Following any of these links will take you to more information on that area.
- Bass Lake
- Mammoth Pool
- Courtright/Wishon Reservoirs
- Lake Thomas A. Edison (Edison)
- Florence Reservoirs
- Huntington Lake
- Shaver Lake
Boating - Non-Motorized
Boating - Non-Motorized
WHITEWATER RAFTING
The Sierra National Forest offers a variety of river sports opportunities. Whitewater enthusiasts might consider a trip down the Kings River or the Merced Wild and Scenic Rivers. Both rivers are very technical (Class III and IV) and suited for experienced boaters. You can organize your own trip, or arrange a trip with one of the commercial rafting companies authorized by the Forest Service. If taking a guided trip, be sure your Guide has a valid Special Use Permit, assuring a safe, authorized and quality service.
For current river levels and flow information, please follow this link.
THE KINGS RIVER
The Kings River offers an enjoyable ten-mile rafting run with Class III and IV rapids. Rafting season is usually from late April to mid July depending on river runoff. The Kings River is a 1 1/2 hour drive east of Fresno towards Pine Flat Reservoir via the Trimmer Springs Road. Continue on the Trimmer Springs Road until you reach Kirch Flat Campground, at the east end of Pine Flat Reservoir. Follow the road past the campground until you get to a metal bridge. After crossing the metal bridge, turn right on the Garnet Dike Road.
MERCED RIVER
The Merced River provides excellent whitewater with Class III and IV rapids. Rafting season is usually from late April to July depending on river runoff. To get there, take Hwy 41 north from Fresno to Oakhurst. At Oakhurst take Hwy 49 west to Mariposa. At Mariposa, take Hwy 140 north to the Merced River. The Merced River is 1/2 hour drive from Mariposa.
Swimming
- Smalley Cove Campground
- Dinkey Creek Campground
- Vermillion Campground
- Huntington Lake Recreation Area
- Billy Creek, Lower Campground
- Dowville Picnic Site
- Huntington Boat Ramp & Launching Site
- Dorabelle Picnic Site
Waterskiing
Dorabelle Campground
Search for Water Activities Opportunities
Bass Lake Recreation Area
Billy Creek, Lower Campground
Billy Creek, Upper Campground
Catavee Campground
College Campground
Courtright Boat Launching Site
Courtright/Wishon Recreation Area
D3 Cliff Lake Trailhead
Deer Creek Campground
Dinkey Creek Campground
