 |
||
|
||
THINGS
TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA |
||
| |
||
|
Diamond Valley Lake Hemet |
|
|||
 |
By Matthew Martz. | |||
If you’re
seeking an oasis and prime fishing hole, a return to nature
at its finest, or a fun “hunt” for dinosaur
bones, Diamond Valley Lake is where you want to be. Located
in the valley of the San Jacinto mountain range in Hemet
California, the lake serves as an important storage reservoir
for Southern California, providing water for summer droughts
and emergency needs. It is one of the largest reservoirs in the region. The three dams at Diamond Valley Lake were constructed using locally mined rock from the floor of the reservoir. The loaders and trucks for the project were the largest available, establishing a new standard for earth and rock movement. The two processing plants set up for the project exceeded the capability of any single commercial processing operation in California, employing up to 1,900 people at a time. The plants combined to move over 200,000 cubic yards of earth per day, totaling over 150 million cubic yards by project end. That’s more than two times what was required for the "Channel Tunnel" project, which now links England with France. The Diamond Valley Lake can hold 260 billion gallons of water, and runs as deep as 260 feet with elevations to nearly 1,800 feet. The total cost of construction was over $1.9 billion. |
| |
 Diamond Valley Lake West Dam |
Designed primarily
for fishing, over 50 bass tournaments take place on the lake
annually, including such big events as WON Bass, ABA, and
National Bass West. The lake features several species of freshwater
fish including large mouth and small mouth bass, bluegill,
crappie, rainbow trout, striped bass, channel catfish, and
shad. This is one of the best fishing spots in California. The new local record was recently set when a fisherman caught a 16.5 pound largemouth bass. To respect the habitat, limits are set on number and size of catches. For most types, this is five or 10 catch per day, but please check before hand to verify current restrictions. The shoreline offers a rugged trail, which runs 1.5 miles North West of the east marina boat ramp. The area includes three coves. Signs show which places allow fishing, so stay in designated areas. Help preserve the beauty around you and keep trash from getting into the lake. Since parking is limited call ahead for a reservation. 250 parking spaces are available for vehicles with boats, while another 50 spaces are set aside for those who fish from the shoreline. Boat rentals are available with parking provided. Call for details. Diamond Valley Lake is working on a trail system that will allow visitors to hike and ride through the hills surrounding the reservoir. The first set of trails is available and run along the north hills that overlook the lake. This trail is a great choice for hikers and horse riders and runs close to six miles. The second trail is the 26-mile hiking and biking trail that circles the 4,500-acre lake. This is a great long trail option that runs through the summers blooming flowers. At the east dam area is a recreational area that includes a swimming pool, soccer and playing fields, and a prime picnic area. While light food is available, it’s best to plan to bring a picnic for the family |
Diamond Valley Lake Saddle Dam |
Diamond Valley Lake Recreation Area |
Check weather conditions
ahead of time, as winters are mild, but summers can break
100 degrees. The lake is open 6am to 6 pm. For more information
or boat reservations call 800-590-LAKE. Camping is not allowed at Diamond Valley Lake, although plans are in the works to construct a campground. For now, several campgrounds and RV parks are located in Hemet and the surrounding area, as well as your standard hotel and motel lodging and dining. Diamond Lake is about 1.5 hours from Los Angeles, and the same distance from San Diego via the 15 freeway from the south or the 60 freeway from the west. |
You
Might Like: |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
Discount
Tickets |
Half
Price Family Deals |
Beach
Camping |
Fun
Things To Do |
|