California's Fishing-Centric Lake Park Offers A Beautiful Beach And Serene Campsites

While it's no secret that California is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the world and an enviable state park system, "The Golden State" also boasts accessible county and city parks that rarely get the attention they deserve. These green spaces provide a vital service: giving residents a place to relax outdoors without spending the big bucks. Situated on the outskirts of Hesperia and only a 45-minute drive from San Bernardino, Hesperia Lake Park offers affordable recreation facilities in the High Desert. It's the kind of place you could drive by a thousand times without realizing all that you're missing. 

Although many activities are geared toward children, families, and seniors, fishing is the park's main draw. Covering just 7 acres, the lake is stocked with approximately 1,000 pounds of seasonal fish per week. During the summer months, anglers can expect catfish or tilapia, while winter is the best season for stocked trout. Check the park's weekly fishing report to find out about recent stocks, the best bait, average catch sizes, and high-performing fishing spots. 

The report also lists the top catches of the week and the bait used. A full day of fishing costs approximately $25, with discounts for children, seniors, veterans, and active military personnel. Keep in mind that adults are allowed up to five fish, while children accompanied by a paying adult have a two-fish limit.

Although fishing is the main draw at Hesperia Lake Park, there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. Enjoy a picnic in the shade with your propane barbeque or the grill provided by the park. A tranquil stream cuts through the glassy area, and a well-equipped playground provides hours of entertainment for kids. For groups of up to 100 people, reserveable picnic areas come with 12 tables each and offer an affordable venue for birthday parties or family celebrations.

If you're looking for a weekend getaway, book one of the 51 individual campsites, which come with a fire pit and a picnic table. An important note for RVs: All the sites accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet and come with electricity. However, only 30 sites offer water, and sewage dumping services aren't provided. The maximum occupancy per site is six adults, two pets, and two vehicles. Consider reserving the spacious group tent area if you're visiting with up to 20 guests, five vehicles, and five pets. The amenities aren't luxurious, but campers have access to separate showers, potable water, and toilets.

Sadly for swimmers, you can't enter the water, but the beach is great for feeding the geese and ducks (buy food at the park's store). Other popular activities include jogging, the equestrian club, dog walking, visiting the 9/11 memorial, and playing soccer. Keep an eye on the park's activity calendar for fishing tournaments and city-sponsored events. 

Stock day changes depending on the time of year and fish in season — you can check Hesperia Lake Park's Facebook page for up-to-date stock info. However, it's important to arrive early in the morning on stock day as the lines grow long and the best fishing spots fill up quickly. While you don't need a fishing license, you must present your ID at the park shop and respect the five-fish-per-adult limit.

If you're planning a visit during spring and summer (peak seasons), we advise booking your campsites well in advance on the park's website. Knowing how to choose the best campsite at your campground can be difficult, but we recommend sites 41 through 46, which offer full RV pull-through and direct views of the beach. However, a few hungry geese and ducks might waddle through your area, so keep your food stowed in your rig. At the end of your stay, remember to do these things before leaving your campsite, and be mindful of children, dogs, and waterfowl as you pull out. 

Speaking of our feathered friends, spring and early summer are hatching season. While it might be tempting to pick up the tiny critters, follow the park's rules and leave the ducklings undisturbed so they aren't abandoned by their mothers.