Top 20 Lakes in Tulare County
Best lakes in Tulare County offers a diverse range of aquatic environments, from historical ephemeral bodies of water to high-alpine gems and accessible reservoirs. This region in California provides unique natural features and recreational opportunities. The landscape includes the southern San Joaquin Valley and extends into the Sierra Nevada mountains. These lakes are integral to the area's natural heritage and outdoor activities.
Best lakes in Tulare County
- The most popular lakes is Heather Lake, a lake that is a…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Heather Lake
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Guitar Lake
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Timberline Lake and Camp
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Lakes trail
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Chicken Spring Lake
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Pear Lake
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Tyndall Creek
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Emerald Lake
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10 campsites with a solar toilet.
Fishing allowed (permit required) with views of Alta Peak and the Marble Fork Valley.
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Precipice Lake
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Weaver Lake
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Popular around Tulare County
John Muir Trail – Along the legendary trail through the magical Sierra Nevada
Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada – 4,200 kilometres of wilderness
The High Sierra Trail — The Ultimate Sierra Experience
The pristine beauty of the US National Parks
Hiking in Tulare County
Cycling in Tulare County
Running Trails in Tulare County
Road Cycling Routes in Tulare County
Other adventures in Tulare County
Tips from the Community
Just a couple of miles from the Wolverton Trailhead, Heather Lake is a good half-day snoshoe destination on mostly flat to moderate terrain. In winter it is frozen and covered under a thick layer of snow.
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This scenic alpine lake is surrounded by fantastic granite rock formations, forest, and plenty of wildflowers during spring and summer. It's a lovely place to spend the day or overnight, as there are several nice campsites dotted around the lake to choose from. It is an excellent place to relax in a peaceful setting and a great place to swim and cool off on a hot day.
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This popular wilderness trail is pretty challenging: If you go to all three lakes along the trail (Heather, Emerald, and Pear) it's almost 12 miles round-trip, with more than 3,200 feet of elevation gain.
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A pit toilet and ranger station are at this location. Ranger station is available as a hut during winter adventures.
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9,230 feet. 10 campsites with a solar toilet. Fishing allowed (permit required) with views of Alta Peak and the Marble Fork Valley.
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Two small ponds and a little meadow form the last flat area before the switchbacks climb out of Guitar Lake, probably the best camp spots
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find in Tulare County?
Tulare County offers a diverse range of lakes, including historical ephemeral bodies of water like Tulare Lake, accessible recreational reservoirs such as Lake Kaweah and Lake Success, and numerous high-alpine gems nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Are there any historical lakes in Tulare County?
Yes, Tulare Lake holds significant historical importance. It was once the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, supporting a rich ecosystem and Native American populations. Today, it is primarily an ephemeral lake, reappearing during periods of high rainfall.
Which lakes are best for water sports and boating?
For water sports and boating, Lake Kaweah and Lake Success are excellent choices. Lake Kaweah is a hub for year-round boating, while Lake Success is popular for kayaking and swimming. Both are recreational reservoirs with good facilities.
Where can I go fishing in Tulare County lakes?
Lake Kaweah and Lake Success are well-known for excellent fishing. Lake Kaweah is abundant with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, brown trout, and channel catfish. Lake Success offers rainbow trout, bass, and crappie. Additionally, Emerald Lake in the High Sierra also allows fishing with a permit.
Are there family-friendly lakes with camping options?
Yes, Lake Kaweah provides camping grounds, making it ideal for family getaways. Lake Success also offers RV camping with electric and water hookups year-round. For a more rustic experience, Weaver Lake is considered family-friendly with several campsites.
What are some popular hiking trails around the lakes?
The High Sierra alpine lakes offer numerous hiking opportunities. The Lakes Trail is a popular, challenging route that visits Heather, Emerald, and Pear lakes. For easier options, you can find various trails in the region, including those listed in the Easy hikes in Tulare County guide.
Can I go snowshoeing or winter hiking near the lakes?
Yes, Heather Lake is a good half-day snowshoeing destination in winter when it's frozen and covered in snow. It's located just a couple of miles from the Wolverton Trailhead.
Which lakes are good for birdwatching?
Lake Success is an excellent destination for birdwatching, attracting Canada geese, American white pelicans, and various other bird species to its waters and surrounding arid grasslands.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming?
Yes, Lake Kaweah and Lake Success are popular for swimming. Additionally, the lakeshore of Timberline Lake is suitable for swimming, especially just before Whitney Creek flows out.
What kind of wilderness experience do the High Sierra alpine lakes offer?
The High Sierra alpine lakes, such as Pear Lake, Precipice Lake, and Chicken Spring Lake, are cherished for their pristine beauty, tranquil settings, and opportunities for hiking, camping, and experiencing untouched wilderness. They often feature granite rock formations and abundant wildflowers.
Are there any lakes with unique geological features?
Guitar Lake is notable for its unique geological location, shaped by glaciers over millennia. When viewed from above on the trail towards Mount Whitney, its distinctive shape resembles a guitar.
What cycling opportunities are available near Tulare County lakes?
While not directly on the lakes, the region offers various cycling routes. You can explore options like the Generals Highway Scenic Drive or the Grant Grove Visitor Center & Hume Lake loop, as detailed in the Cycling in Tulare County guide.
Most popular routes in Tulare County
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