Dixon Lake

Open year-round, but especially busy in summer, Dixon Lake is a popular outdoor recreation area for Escondido residents. The lake has a surface area of 76 acres at an elevation of just over 1,000 feet, making it an ideal getaway for camping, picnics, boating, and fishing.

Daily fishing reports are issued to help anglers get the most out of their visits to Dixon Lake. Bass, trout and bluegill are the preferred catch here, although catfish up to five pounds have been landed. During the summer, night fishing is also permitted. Anyone fishing at the lake must have a State of California Fishing License, available at day rates of $7 per adult, $5 per senior over 60, and $5 for youth aged 8~15. Rentals are available for rowboats, motorboats, and 4-person paddleboats.

Visitors wishing to stay overnight will find several options at Dixon Lake. Standard campsites with tables, grills and lockers can accommodate up to eight persons each; deluxe campsites have electricity, water and sewerage. Group campsites can also be booked, along with picnic shelters and a group BBQ shelter. There is one 750-square-foot brick cabin, too, for use by people with impaired mobility. Fees apply.

Dixon Lake is located at 1700 North La Honda Drive, Escondido, California 92027. A day use fee is charged: $5 per standard vehicle or $10 per bus or large RV. Seniors over 60 are admitted free of charge. The gates open at 6am each day and close at dusk. Pets are not allowed.