Turlock Lake State Recreation Area facts for kids
The Turlock Lake State Recreation Area is a fun place to visit in Stanislaus County, central California. It's a regional park and a special area for outdoor activities located right by Turlock Lake.
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What is Turlock Lake State Recreation Area?
This park is part of the California State Parks system. It's found in the San Joaquin Valley foothills, about 250 feet (76 meters) above sea level. The park sits on the south side of the Tuolumne River and along the north shore of Turlock Lake.
Where is the park located?
You can find the Turlock Lake State Recreation Area near La Grange. It's about 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of the city of Modesto. It's also east of U.S. Route 99 and the town of Turlock.
How big is Turlock Lake?
The recreation area includes Turlock Lake itself, which has a shoreline stretching about 26 miles (42 kilometers). The park also covers the surrounding foothill areas. This land has been leased from the Turlock Irrigation District since 1950.
Fun Things to Do at Turlock Lake
There are many exciting activities you can do at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area!
Water Activities
- Fishing: Try to catch some fish in the lake.
- Swimming: Cool off with a swim in the clear water.
- Boating: Take your boat out on the lake.
- Water Skiing: Enjoy the thrill of water skiing.
The park has special ramps to launch your boat easily. The areas for day use are open from 8:00 AM until sunset.
Land Activities
- Picnicking: Enjoy a meal outdoors with your family and friends.
- Birdwatching: Look for different kinds of birds that live in the area.
- Bicycling: Ride your bike on the park's trails.
- Hiking: Explore the natural beauty on foot.
Camping at the Park
The park also has a large campground that covers about 66 acres (27 hectares). This area is shaded by big trees, making it a nice place to set up your tent or RV. The campground is located along the Tuolumne River.
Nature at Turlock Lake
The park is a great place to see the many different kinds of native plants that used to grow along the rivers in the San Joaquin Valley. These plants are part of the riparian zone, which is the area right next to a river or lake.
Park Fees
There is a small fee to enter Turlock Lake State Recreation Area for day use. It costs $12 per vehicle.
