Sierra Foothills, Quiet Waters
Why Rent On Lake Success
Lake Success stretches across 2,450 acres in the southern Sierra Nevada foothills, just outside Porterville. Formed by the Success Dam on the Tule River in 1961, this reservoir is managed for flood control but loved for recreation. It offers the kind of relaxed, uncrowded lake experience that bigger, more famous California reservoirs have long since lost. The surrounding oak and grassland hills turn green in spring and golden in summer, framing every view beautifully.
Vacation Rentals Beat Hotels Here
Porterville has standard motel options, but renting a cabin or lakeside vacation home puts you and your family in a completely different experience. You wake up near the water, brew coffee in your own kitchen, and walk outside to catch the early morning light on the lake. With multiple bedrooms and real living space, the whole group stays together comfortably rather than splitting across hotel rooms. A vacation rental here is simply the better way to do it.
Fish, Boat, and Relax
The lake is well stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and more, making it a reliable fishing destination from spring through fall. The Success Lake Recreation Area has a full-service marina with rentals and fuel, so you do not need to haul your own gear. Boating, wakeboarding, and picnicking are all popular, and the wide-open water means you rarely feel crowded.
Great for Families and Pet-Friendly Groups
Lake Success is the kind of place where kids can cast a line off a dock and older family members can sit in the shade watching the water. Pet-friendly rentals around the lake make it easy to bring your dog along for shoreline walks and the occasional swim. Shaded campsites and day-use areas give you options whether you want a full week or just a long weekend.
Wildflowers and Local Eats
In spring, the surrounding hills burst with California poppies and wildflowers that make every drive scenic. After a day on the water, The Barn in Porterville serves farm-to-table fare with rustic charm, a fitting end to a day spent outdoors. Lake Success is the kind of under-the-radar destination that rewards those who skip the crowds and follow the road less traveled.
- Surface area (mi)
- 6.2
- Max depth (ft)
- 654.86
- Elevation (ft)
- 656.17
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 29.83
Popular activities
- Boating
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Jet Skiing
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Success has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are designated areas for swimming at Lake Success. These areas are marked and swimmers must follow all posted safety regulations, as there may not be lifeguards on duty.
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Lake Success is a popular destination for recreational activities because it has a variety of sports and recreational facilities. The Village Park offers a swimming pool, tennis courts, baseball fields, basketball, handball, and volleyball courts, as well as a playground and an 18-hole golf course, providing something for all ages and interests.
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Yes, there are specific regulations for eating fish caught from Lake Success in California. You should eat only the skinless fillet or meat portion of the fish and thoroughly cook it, allowing the juice to drain away. This is to follow guidelines set by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA).
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There is no public beach at Lake Success. The facilities at Lake Success include a marina, launch areas, and recreational areas, but they do not mention a public beach. The area is primarily used for boating, camping, and other water activities.
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The closest town to Lake Success in California is Porterville. Lake Success is located approximately 8 miles east of Porterville in the Sierra Nevada foothills. It is accessible via State Highway 190, which connects to State Highway 99 near Porterville.
