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County agrees to reopen and operate Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
Turlock Lake to reopen
Turlock Lake in eastern Stanislaus County will reopen as a recreational destination in 2017 thanks to Stanislaus County agreeing to operate of it. The park will be receiving improvements paid for by a state grant.

Stanislaus County, Turlock Irrigation District, and California State Parks announced last week the approval of an agreement to operate Turlock Lake State Recreation Area (SRA).

Turlock Lake SRA, owned by Turlock Irrigation District, is on the south side of the Tuolumne River nestled in the rolling foothills of eastern Stanislaus County east of Waterford. The lake has 26 miles of shoreline, is an ideal setting for outdoor recreation, and is an integral facility in TID’s irrigation system.

On Tuesday, March 3 the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors and Turlock Irrigation Board approved a Joint Powers Agreement for Stanislaus County Parks and Recreation to operate Turlock Lake SRA day use area with plans to make improvements to reopen the park. The state of California is providing nearly $8.2 million to Stanislaus County for the necessary facility improvements including fencing, lighting, restrooms, walkways and accessible parking.

“This partnership represents a best possible scenario for Turlock Lake; vital funding from the state, local management from the county offering recreational opportunities for the community, while still providing TID the operational flexibility of the lake for the benefit of our customers,” said TID General Manager Brad Kohen. 

Future recreation at Turlock Lake SRA will offer family-friendly recreation with a waterpark, picnicking, fishing, swimming, non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing, small engine motorized boating, and seasonal waterfowl hunting. The park may reopen as soon as summer 2027. 

“Reopening Turlock Lake is more than unlocking the gates; it’s reopening a space that belongs to our community,” said Supervisor Vito Chiesa, the current chairman of the board. “I am excited for this wonderful opportunity for our Parks and Recreation Department to collaborate with State Parks and Turlock Irrigation District to provide family-friendly recreation for our residents and visitors to enjoy.”

For a complete listing of community/neighborhood and regional parks visit https://www.stancountyparks.com/community-parks.