The crisp smell of eucalyptus is an invigorating reminder of why being outdoors is so beneficial to our health. And if San Diegans have a say in what it means to be healthy, it would include frequent visits to Lake Poway for nourishment. Settled into the hills of Poway, this Wilderness Reserve has an extensive trail system for mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding. Located within the park is a four-acre camping area not accessible by vehicle. To reach this site of unsurpassed beauty, campers must walk in about one mile along a moderately difficult trail.
For those just wanting to spend the day, the Lake Poway Recreation Area has a volleyball court, horseshoe pit, softball field, playgrounds, an archery range, and horse corral. Oh, yes, and fishing. Nicknamed the “Little Giant” because of the abundance of fish, Lake Poway is stocked full weekly, and there are rowboats, motorboats, sailboats, and paddle boats available for rent. (Fishing tip: Hidden Bay, Half-Moon, and Boulder Bay are the best places for bass, or try your luck at Rendezvous Ledge and Jump-Off Point for trout.)
Lake Poway is open daily from sunrise to sunset, but fishing is allowed only Wednesday through Sunday. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy the open air and a picnic at the concert series held in the amphitheatre. For the kids, archery, fishing lessons, and Mad Science camps are offered. Children can learn about building a robot, becoming a detective, or launching boats. Now, aren’t you feeling better already?
Lake Information
- Hours:
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Fees:
- Free for residents of Poway, nominal fee for non-residents. Parking $5
- Contact:
- Location: 14644 Lake Poway Rd. Poway, CA
- Phone: Information: 858-668-4770, Lake Concession: 858-486-1234
- Website: www.ci.poway.ca.us
