History:
Before there was a lake here, this area was known as Crane Valley. The dam was built in 1901, enlarged in 1905 and completed in 1910. The dam is now 145 feet high. The lake was called Crane Valley Reservoir for many years but the name was eventually changed when a Bass Lake lumber company polluted the lake, killing all the fish that were in it. In addition to being fined, the lumber company was ordered to replace all the fish. The chosen fish was Bass... now we call it Bass Lake.

Camping:
USFS has multiple camping areas around the lake. Make Camp Site Reservations! Call (559) 642-3212 to reserve a campsite. See our Camping Guide for more information.

Fishing:
Bass Lake is stocked with trout, bass, salmon, catfish, crappie and bluegill. In May, anglers can try their luck at the Bass Lake Fishing Derby, with more than 800 tagged trout and $40,000 in cash and prizes. Fishing for kokanee salmon is good during fall and winter months. Fishing boat rentals are available at all three resorts located on Bass Lake.

Water Sports:
Bass Lake is a very warm lake, reaching 80 degrees in July. This helps to make it the popular water sports destination that it is today. Whether you like to water-ski, jet ski, wake board, wake skate or tube, Bass Lake is the perfect lake for you.

Directions:

From Southern California: I-5 North to 99 North 99 North to 41 North 41 North to Oakhurst Right at Bass Lake Turnoff

From The Bay Area: 580 East to I-5 South I-5 South to 132 East 132 East to 99 South 99 South to 140 East 140 East to 49 South 49 South to Oakhurst 41 North to Bass Lake Turnoff

Weather Links:
Bass Lake CA Forecast
Bass Lake Weather & Webcam
California Winter Storm Warnings
CA Fog, Wind & Frost Advisories

Ski Conditions:
Badger Pass, California
Sierra Summit, California