Best lakes around Oak Hills, located in the Victor Valley of the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California, offer diverse recreational opportunities. This region is characterized by its desert landscape transitioning to mountain environments, providing access to various water bodies. The area features both large reservoirs and smaller man-made lakes, catering to different outdoor interests.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Popular around Oak Hills
The park provides free access to day use visitors on bike or foot. Cars pay for parking. Overnight for bikers is discounted at $5 per person.
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Large lake with beaches, boating, and many campsites, several always held available for hikers without reservation at a discounted rate of $5 per person.
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Boat Launch into Silverwood Creek and mooring docks at the end of Sawpit Canyon Rd in Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area. Restrooms, showers, picnic area and sandy beach nearby.
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Nice picnic area along the banks of Silverwood Lake. The path down is steep, so make sure to take your time on your way down. There is shade in the picnic area, so it is a good place for a break.
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The PCT follows the west shore of Lake Silverwood for several miles. There are multiple points along the trail that you get great views of the water. In this spot, you get a particularly great view of the whole lake.
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The PCT follow the shoreline for some time. At this section, follow a dirt road that leads down to another picnic area that has water from a spigot.
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Some steep side trail lead from the PCT to this nice picnic area. It not that easy to hike there since it is mostly used by people coming with their boats. It has tables, shade and a pit toilet, but no water.
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For scenic hiking, Lake Silverwood West Shore is an excellent choice. The Pacific Crest Trail follows this shoreline section, offering great views of the water and access to a picnic area. Silverwood Lake also has sections of the Pacific Crest Trail running through the park, providing opportunities for more strenuous hikes.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area offers beaches, boating, and camping. Lake Gregory is particularly family-friendly, featuring a swim beach, waterslides, an inflatable water park, and a splash pad for younger children, along with boat rentals and hiking trails. Hesperia Lake Park also provides a relaxed setting with a playground and picnic areas.
The lakes around Oak Hills offer diverse water activities. At Silverwood Lake, you can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Lake Gregory is popular for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, with various boat rentals available. Lake Arrowhead allows boating, water skiing, and fishing, though personal boating access is restricted to residents and guests.
Fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Silverwood Lake is a good option for fishing. Lake Gregory regularly stocks rainbow trout and bass. Hesperia Lake Park is a primary draw for anglers, regularly stocked with trout, catfish, and bluegill, and offers fishing gear rentals on-site.
Yes, camping is available. Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area has many campsites, with some always available for hikers at a discounted rate. Hesperia Lake Park also offers camping options for RVs and tents.
You can expect to see clear, blue waters and scenic mountain surroundings, especially at Silverwood Lake, which is nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains. Lake Arrowhead is known for its picturesque mountain resort setting. The region transitions from desert landscapes to mountain environments, offering varied natural beauty.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Lake Gregory offers a cooler retreat, typically 20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the valley floor, making it pleasant during warmer months. For hiking and general outdoor activities, spring and fall often provide comfortable temperatures. Summer is ideal for water sports, while winter activities might be limited to specific areas.
Yes, several lakes provide picnic facilities. There's a Picnic area along Silverwood Lake with tables, shade, and a pit toilet. Silverwood Lake also has general picnic areas. Hesperia Lake Park features picnic areas with barbecue grills.
Parking is generally available at the main access points for the lakes. For example, at Silverwood Lake, New Mesa Campground, day-use visitors arriving by car pay for parking, while those on bike or foot get free access. The Sawpit Canyon Rd Boat Launch also has parking facilities.
Lake Gregory offers dog parks and hiking trails where dogs are welcome. It's always advisable to check specific park regulations for other lakes regarding pet access and leash requirements before your visit.
Lake Arrowhead, often called 'The Alps of Southern California,' is a private lake in the San Bernardino Mountains. It offers a picturesque mountain resort experience with a charming village featuring shops and restaurants. While access to the lake for swimming and personal boating is generally restricted to residents and guests, visitors can enjoy activities like taking a scenic tour on the historic Arrowhead Queen Paddleboat.
You can find a boat launch into Silverwood Creek and mooring docks at the end of Sawpit Canyon Rd Boat Launch within the Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area. This area also provides restrooms, showers, a picnic area, and a sandy beach nearby.


Still not found your perfect lake around Oak Hills? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.