Lake with penninsula campground

Lake Piru Vacation Rentals

Lake Piru, California, United States
34.4775° N, -118.75° W
Lake Piru
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Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Los Padres National Forest, Lake Piru is a 1,200-acre reservoir in Ventura County that offers a more relaxed pace than neighboring SoCal lakes. Formed by the Santa Felicia Dam, the lake is popular for boating, fishing, and camping. Largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and trout are commonly caught here. The Lake Piru Recreation Area provides boat rentals, campsites, and a marina with supplies. Swimming is allowed in designated areas, and the warm-water coves are inviting in summer. A new water level monitoring system ensures safe access, even in drought years. Trails along the shoreline are ideal for short hikes and nature watching. For post-lake eats, nearby Fillmore has classic diners like Vallarta Restaurant, serving authentic Mexican fare.

Surface area (mi)
3.12
Max depth (ft)
131.23
Elevation (ft)
1049.87
Shoreline length (mi)
18.04
Best time to go
Visit Lake Piru in May, when wildflowers bloom along the banks, and the sun casts a golden hue on tranquil waters. This perfect pre-summer moment invites serene canoeing, invigorating hiking, and peaceful fishing amidst fewer tourists, offering a lavish escape.
Water Quality
Lake Piru's water exhibits a deep blue hue, with clarity varying from clear to stained, depending on seasonal conditions.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Lake Piru

Nearby lakes

Where to stay

Modern Home
Modern Home
Westminster, California, USA
$341 night

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Piru has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed at Lake Piru from the Friday before Memorial Day weekend through the Friday after Labor Day, as specified by the United Water Conservation District’s swimming policy. Swimming is only permitted in designated areas during this time period.

  • Lake Piru is a popular recreational destination because it offers a wide range of activities. On the water, you can enjoy water skiing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, and kayaking. On shore, there are facilities like picnic areas, grills, a 9-hole disc golf course, basketball courts, and hiking trails.

  • To fish in Lake Piru, California, you must have a California sport fishing license. There are specific regulations on the types of fish you can catch, but these are not detailed in the general rules for Lake Piru; you need to follow the California freshwater sport fishing regulations. These regulations include daily bag and possession limits.

  • Lake Piru does not have a traditional beach, but it offers a shoreline area that is accessible by vehicle. This area has amenities like picnic tables, BBQ grills, and restrooms, making it suitable for families. Swimming is allowed from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

  • Towns near Lake Piru include Fillmore, Moorpark, Santa Paula, and Simi Valley. These towns are all located in Ventura County, California, and are relatively close to the lake, which is nestled in the Los Padres National Forest.