Lake Poway551

Nestled in the hills of Poway amid groves of eucalyptus and characteristic Southern California chaparral, Lake Poway offers fishing, boating, sailing, hiking, camping, picnicking, volleyball, and softball.

Located just outside the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve, at the base of Lake Poway dam, is a day-use Wilderness Picnic Area. Oak trees, chaparral and coastal sage scrub surround this heavily shaded four-acre parcel. There are several picnic tables, permanent restrooms and horse tie-ups. There are also trails for riding and hiking enthusiasts. This area is inaccessible by vehicle, so visitors must walk in one mile on a moderately difficult trail.

Surrounding the lake and dam is the 400 acre Clyde E. Rexrode Wilderness Area. Named for Poway's first Mayor, who died in 1982, the area has many miles of trails. There is a three mile loop around Lake Poway, a 2.5-mile hike to Mount Woodson, and a one mile hike into the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve.

The concession stand sells bait and tackle, in addition to human food. State fishing licenses (required for persons 16 years of age and older), day fishing permits (children seven and under may fish in the company of an adult with a permit), and boat rentals are available at the concession. The lake has rowboats, motor boats, sailboats, and paddle boats available for rent. The Lake Poway Recreation Area is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week for picnicking. The lake offers a playground for kids near the concessions area and main entrance. Fishing and boating hours are Wednesday through Sunday, sunrise to sunset. Specific areas in the park may be reserved for use by groups or individuals.